Retired General Charles Airhiavbere, an aspirant for the 2024 Edo governorship election under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has pledged to revamp the state's economy if elected.
Airhiavbere, who previously served as the Executive Director of Finance and Administration at the Niger Delta Development Commission, made this commitment during the launch of his campaign at the party's state secretariat in Benin.
In his appeal to party members for their support, Airhiavbere expressed confidence in his ability to secure the governorship seat for the APC, leveraging his extensive experience and cross-party relationships.
“In the Edo 2024 governorship election, the APC will thrive with the right candidate, and I have the reach and qualifications to win the election.
“I supported the present governor’s election in 2016, and in 2020, I was part of the seven aspirants who agreed to the consensus that produced Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu.
“It is my turn to try, and I’ve asked..to let me be the meat that sets the trap that catches the antelope,” he said.
Airhiavbere outlined his administration's focus, which would revolve around Peace, Infrastructural Development, and Economic Prosperity (PIE). He described these three foundational pillars as interconnected elements crucial for building a better society for all.
He emphasised the importance of peace, stating, “for anything to happen in any environment -even in our homes- there must be peace.
“Without a peaceful Edo state, there will be no food security. You can’t even attract investors to the state and the people cannot have the best life.”
On the subject of infrastructure development, he affirmed, “a robust infrastructure is the backbone of any prosperous State (Edo)”. He pledged to prioritise infrastructure development by investing in modern transportation systems, sustainable energy initiatives, and upgraded technology networks.
“Lastly, my economic prosperity plan will stimulate job creation, encourage entrepreneurship and support small businesses.
“By fostering a conducive environment for innovation and investment, we aim to boost economic growth and ensure that the benefits are shared equitably among all citizens,” he said.
(NAN)