Last week in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state, Dr. Ani Wellington, an Abuja-based oil magnate, formally joined the race to become the next elected governor of Akwa Ibom state in 2023.
He will be running on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to succeed Governor Udom Emmanuel also of the PDP.
In a speech before a packed audience in the state capital, Uyo, Wellington said he was in the race to make positive difference in the lives of his people.
According to Dr. Wellington, “I want to teach the people how to fish and transform the state into a mini Dubai. Our state will be a major tourism destination for many people from within Nigeria and overseas.”
He added, “There will be constant electricity supply within six months of my administration. There will also be free education from Primary to secondary school level; we will also provide free food, free school uniforms and sandals.”
The governorship hopeful explained that he will reduce the unemployment rate in the state by creating jobs for the youths, who make up the largest number of the state population. “I will run an inclusive government,” he added.
Wellington, who is from Akwa Ibom North East in Uyo Senatorial District, says he decided to throw his hat in the ring after wide consultations from stakeholders in the state.
“This is why my team decided that our first visit to the state should be to inform our friends, old school mates and age group under the aegis of Uyo Old Boys, Foundation, to inform them of my ambition irrespective of their affiliations to other aspirants or political parties. I was emboldened by their reception and my message was well received and applauded. Everywhere we have visited in the state, we have been well received. I must say that is very encouraging”.
Ani Wellington, an alumnus of the University of Cross Rivers State, UNICROSS, now University of Uyo, UNIUYO, says the fact that other people have signified interest to run does not disturb him: “I am in this race to win. I believe I am the best candidate for this position. Time will tell.”
