Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the September 21 governorship election in Edo State, reiterated his ambitious vision to transform Edo into a first-world sub-national entity in Nigeria. Speaking on Wednesday at a Town Hall Meeting with the Edo Diaspora in Houston, Texas, he emphasized the crucial role that Edo sons and daughters must play in realizing this vision if his administration is elected.
Accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Ifeyinwa Ighodalo, his running mate, Osarodion Ogie Esq, and other members of his entourage, Ighodalo was met with enthusiastic fanfare by the over 350 attendees. In his address, he stressed, “We (myself and Osarodion Ogie) need your help to realize our commitment to creating a first-world economy for Edo State.” He highlighted that security would be the top priority of his administration, as it is essential for attracting the investment needed to drive economic prosperity.
Elaborating on his manifesto, titled “The Pathway to Prosperity for All,” Ighodalo promised to create an environment conducive to attracting investors and ensuring that citizens can safely return home at least twice a year, a practice he believes will significantly boost the state’s economy. He also vowed to foster an atmosphere that encourages the state’s creative and talented youth to flourish in the digital and creative industries. “We will create a conducive environment suitable and attractive for you to come back home and invest,” he assured.
Throughout his speech, Ighodalo emphasized transparency, accountability, and trustworthiness as the pillars of his government, essential to earning the confidence of foreign investors. He also pledged to leverage his extensive experience in sourcing finance for corporate entities to fund infrastructure projects, with support from his running mate, Osarodion Ogie. Ogie, in his remarks, assured the audience that their administration would build on the successes of the current government, particularly in agriculture, power, and the economy, to propel Edo to new heights of economic prosperity.
The meeting concluded with an interactive Q&A session, during which Ighodalo and Ogie adeptly addressed the concerns and questions of the audience. The next stop for their Diaspora engagement is New York on Friday.