By Ugwuagbo Emmanuel Chizoba
ENUGU — Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, popularly known as Nwakibie, has declared his intention to serve only one term if elected Governor of Enugu State in the 2027 general elections.
Nnaji made this known during a consultative and interactive workshop with political supporters and grassroots mobilizers drawn from across the state. The gathering brought together party leaders, youth groups, women organizations, professionals, and stakeholders from various local governments.
The session focused on his vision for Enugu State, his leadership philosophy, and a long term economic and industrial development blueprint.
Commitment to Zoning and Equity
In a declaration that drew significant attention, Nnaji stated that his decision to serve a single four year term is anchored on his respect for the state’s zoning arrangement.
According to him, the zoning structure has remained a stabilizing force, ensuring political balance and unity among Enugu’s three senatorial zones.
He emphasized that based on the rotational agreement, Enugu West Senatorial District is expected to produce the next governor by 2031.
“I am fully committed to respecting the zoning structure. Leadership should not be driven by personal ambition, but by fairness, equity, and the long term stability of the state,” he said.
Four Years Enough for Transformation
Drawing from over three decades of entrepreneurial experience, Nnaji expressed confidence in his ability to reposition the state within a single tenure.
He stated that his background in business development, job creation, and industrial growth has equipped him to deliver results within a short time frame.
According to him, Enugu State has the capacity to become an economic and industrial hub, citing its vast but underutilized resources, including solid minerals, agriculture, human capital, tourism potential, and its strategic location.
He lamented that these resources have not been effectively harnessed, promising a new approach focused on productivity, job creation, and increased internally generated revenue without imposing additional tax burdens on citizens.
“We will drive an industrial revolution in Enugu State,” he declared.
Track Record in Public Office
To support his claims, Nnaji referenced his tenure as Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology.
He noted that the ministry, once ranked among the worst performing in the country, rose to become the fourth best within two years under his leadership.
“Leadership performance is driven by competence, vision, and experience. People can never give what they do not have,” he said.
Ensuring Continuity Beyond Tenure
Nnaji also highlighted plans for continuity beyond his proposed tenure.
He revealed that he is already advocating for the emergence of a capable successor from Enugu West Senatorial District by 2031, who would sustain and expand the development framework he intends to establish.
Lessons from Jim Nwobodo’s Era
To reinforce his argument that transformational leadership does not require long years in office, Nnaji cited the achievements of former Governor of old Anambra State, Jim Nwobodo.
He noted that Jim Nwobodo’s administration between 1979 and 1983 delivered landmark projects that remain impactful decades later.
These include the establishment of ESUT, Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Nike Lake Resort Hotel, Ikenga Hotels Ltd - Awka, Enugu and Nsukka, Ebonyi State University, Eha-Amufu College of Education, College of Education Nsugbe, Trans Ekulu Housing Estate, Anambra State Television, multiple housing estates, rural electrification across over 400 communities, and several industrial including AVOP, Sunrise Flour Mill, Ezillo Building Materials Manufacturing Company and several educational institutions.
According to Nnaji, these achievements demonstrate that impactful governance is not measured by duration, but by vision, competence, and commitment.
Focus on Legacy Over Power
Nnaji concluded by stating that his ambition is not driven by the desire for political power, but by the need to build a lasting legacy.
He expressed his intention to retire into private life after his four year tenure, satisfied with laying a solid economic and industrial foundation for the state.
“My goal is to leave behind a legacy that future generations of Enugu citizens will benefit from,” he said.
The session ended with a call for unity, as Nnaji urged his supporters to remain focused and committed to the collective vision of building a prosperous, industrialized, and economically vibrant Enugu State.