By Uche Nnorom, Makurdi
A former Special Adviser to the Benue State Governor on International Investment, Alex Addingi, has declared his intention to contest for the House of Representatives seat representing Buruku Federal Constituency.
Addingi made the declaration on Monday while briefing journalists at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) House in Makurdi.
He pledged to deliver economic empowerment to the people of the constituency if elected, noting that he had already been supporting residents prior to formally declaring his ambition.
The aspirant expressed concern over the slow pace of development in Buruku Local Government Area, promising to reverse the trend through targeted interventions.
According to him, his economic blueprint includes large-scale cultivation of hybrid palm trees aimed at positioning Buruku as a leading hub for palm oil production in Benue State and across Nigeria.
Addingi also disclosed ongoing discussions with Chinese partners to equip schools in four wards with modern laboratory facilities, alongside plans to provide scholarship opportunities for students to study in China.
He further revealed that he is currently training 5,000 youths in digital skills as part of efforts to empower young people and address social challenges in the constituency.
The former aide emphasised that his ambition is driven by a desire to serve rather than personal gain.
“I am not interested in building mansions or buying flashy cars. My focus is on developing my people,” he said.
Addingi added that existing zoning arrangements favour his candidacy and expressed confidence that he reflects the aspirations of his constituents.
He assured that his leadership would prioritise empowerment, wealth creation, and sustainable development for the people of Buruku.
Reflecting on his previous role, he stated that he played a key role in attracting foreign investment to Benue State, including spearheading an exchange programme with a Chinese province and organising the state’s first international investment summit.
He added that these initiatives contributed to improving the ease of doing business in the state, thereby enhancing its appeal to foreign investors.
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