The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abia State for the 2027 general election, Dr. Kelechi Anosike, has unveiled key elements of his policy agenda, promising a welfare-driven administration focused on improved workers’ welfare, job creation, youth empowerment, and human capital development if elected governor.
Speaking during an interactive session with journalists in Umuahia shortly after his homecoming, Anosike said his visit to the state was primarily to appreciate party delegates and stakeholders for electing him as the PDP’s governorship candidate.
He explained that the homecoming marks the beginning of a statewide thank-you tour across the 17 local government areas, where he and other party candidates will meet stakeholders, express gratitude, and reactivate the party’s grassroots structures ahead of the official commencement of campaigns.
“This is a thank-you visit and my first return to Abia after emerging as the party’s governorship candidate. We are here to appreciate our delegates, party leaders, elders, and supporters for the confidence they reposed in us. The turnout here today is a clear demonstration that the PDP remains strong, united, and ready for the task ahead,” Anosike said.
The PDP flagbearer maintained that the party has regained momentum and is fully prepared for the 2027 elections, insisting that the PDP remains the most organised political party in the state.
According to him, the ongoing mobilisation across the state is aimed at strengthening the party’s structures and positioning it for electoral victory.
Promises Salary Review, Improved Workers’ Welfare
Highlighting his vision for governance, Anosike described himself as a “welfarist,” saying the welfare of workers, pensioners, and ordinary citizens would form the foundation of his administration.
He pledged to undertake a comprehensive review of salaries for state and local government workers, including judicial employees, while addressing outstanding promotion and leave allowances.
The PDP candidate also promised to introduce a minimum wage of ₦90,000 upon assumption of office, with plans to increase it to ₦100,000 after the initial phase of his administration.
According to him, pension payments would also be reviewed to improve the welfare of retirees, while a state health insurance scheme would be introduced to make healthcare more affordable.
“We believe a labourer deserves his wages. Government should be assessed not only by the roads it builds but by the well-being of its people. Welfare will remain the centrepiece of our administration,” he stated.
Plans Global Job Opportunities for Youths
Anosike disclosed plans to establish the Abia Labour Global Opportunities Agency (ALGOA), which, according to him, would equip young people with digital and professional skills needed to secure remote employment with international companies while living in Abia.
He said the agency would identify global employment opportunities, provide specialised training, and connect qualified youths to overseas employers, enabling them to earn foreign exchange without relocating.
The governorship candidate also announced plans to establish the Abia State Informal Sector Development Regulatory Agency to certify, regulate, and improve the capacity of artisans, including electricians, mechanics, plumbers, and technicians.
According to him, formal certification would enhance their earning potential and enable them to access employment opportunities both within Nigeria and abroad.
Agriculture, Sports and Justice Reforms
On agriculture, Anosike said his administration would implement programmes aimed at boosting food production, supporting farmers, and creating jobs through agriculture and agro-industrial development.
He also proposed the establishment of a sports academy to identify, nurture, and develop talented young athletes capable of competing at national and international levels.
The PDP candidate further promised reforms in the justice sector, pledging to eliminate prolonged detention without trial and ensure that citizens have access to timely and fair justice.
He said his administration would prioritise governance policies that directly improve the quality of life of residents through investments in healthcare, rural infrastructure, employment, and social welfare.
Anosike expressed confidence that the PDP’s extensive grassroots network, renewed unity, and policy direction would position the party strongly ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
He maintained that the statewide appreciation tour would further strengthen the party’s structures as preparations continue for the official campaign.
