By Winnie Onu, Makurdi
A former aide to the Benue State Governor on International Investment, Alex Adingi, on Monday declared his intention to contest the House of Representatives seat for Buruku Federal Constituency, unveiling an ambitious plan to tackle underdevelopment and drive economic growth in the area.
Speaking at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) House in Makurdi, Adingi said Buruku Local Government had lagged behind in development and required deliberate intervention to unlock its economic potential.
He outlined a strategy centred on large-scale cultivation of hybrid palm trees, aimed at positioning Buruku as a major hub for palm oil production in Benue State and Nigeria.
The aspirant also disclosed ongoing engagements with Chinese partners to equip schools across the constituency’s four council wards with modern laboratory facilities, alongside plans to secure scholarship opportunities for students to study in China.
In a bid to address unemployment and social challenges, Adingi said he was currently training 5,000 youths in digital skills to enhance their economic prospects.
He maintained that his ambition was driven by a desire to deliver tangible development rather than personal gain.
“I am not interested in building mansions or buying flashy cars. My focus is on developing my people,” he said.
Adingi further expressed confidence in his chances, citing existing zoning arrangements and widespread support from constituents.
He added that his leadership would prioritise empowerment, wealth creation, and sustainable development in Buruku.
Highlighting his previous role in government, Adingi said he facilitated the attraction of foreign investors to Benue State, spearheaded an exchange programme with a Chinese province, and organised the state’s first international investment summit.
The Reps hopeful added that these efforts contributed to improving the ease of doing business in the state and boosting its appeal to investors.
Photos shows Adingi speaking with a microphone and wearing a white T-shirt while the NUJ chairman, Bedroom Ugber classes in black safari.
