Senator Athan Achonu, the Governorship Candidate of the Labour in the November 11 gubernatorial elections in Imo State, has pledged to develop the state by enhancing ease of doing business and establishing industrial layouts in Imo State.
He spoke at the Imo State Congress of America (ISCA Convention), Houston, Texas, on Saturday, 22nd July, where he was invited to speak on his plans to govern Imo State.
Speaking about his determination to take back Imo State from its current state to a leading sub-national government, he said
his administration, when voted into power, will build “two industrial layouts in each of the senatorial zones of the state as a way of catalysing industrialisation and economic development of the Eastern Heartland.”
He said the industrial parks will help in attracting investments, inspire a vibrant manufacturing sector, foster creativity, and provide the much needed employment for citizens. His plan includes partnering with the private sector to build pharmaceutical, agro-processing, and light industrial parks to serve the state.
He further stated that Imo Airport is already designated as an international cargo airport, and he is going to ensure it becomes viable, attractive to investors, generate employment as well as provide economic gains to the state. According to him, “what we are going to do is to make it viable, create a strong business case, partner with local and international logistics companies to make the Sam Mbakwe airport an outsourcing hub for the region and beyond.”
“This is a long-held business idea, and I know that if properly executed, it will no doubt make Imo Airport a credible alternative to the Lagos Airport and by that galvanize logistics service opportunities with that sub-region.”
Senator Athan Achonu, who shared with participants his vision for leadership excellence, also made a firm commitment to protect all votes cast. He told them that all he needs is for everyone to cast their votes, and he would protect them at the collation centre.
He also re-emphasized that peace and security are top priorities in his agenda. He said, “All hands must be on deck to achieve this as I am confident that when elected, we will ensure that all Imolites can safely return to their communities once again.”
Finally, Senator Achonu thanked the Organisers of the ISCA event for inviting him to the event and remphasized that this coming election is an existential election for our dear State. Therefore, he enjoined all Imolites to join force with him to ‘Take-Back-Imo’ and place our beloved State in the path of growth and sustelainable development.
