Ndidi Key Ofure, the former governorship candidate of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) in Edo State, has outlined a detailed agenda for the State’s newly elected governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, urging him to prioritise economic sustainability, infrastructure, and human capital development to alleviate the current hardship faced by Edo citizens.
Speaking on ITV’s “Politics Today,” Ndidi, who joined the programme from the United States, stressed that any leader serious about governance must focus on building human capital that translates into tangible economic growth and improves the living standards of the people.
She highlighted key sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, and drainage systems as areas that require immediate attention from the new administration.
“A good road network is essential for the movement of goods and services,” she remarked.
“The Edo State government must collaborate with the Federal Government to ensure the completion of all federal roads. If this happens, it will significantly boost business activities across the State.”
Ndidi also underscored the importance of developing the agricultural sector, warning that without a robust agricultural system, Edo State risks falling into deeper poverty and hunger.
According to her, agriculture can be a powerful engine for economic growth and food security if well-managed.
Another area of concern was the drainage system in the state capital, Benin City. Ndidi stressed that proper drainage infrastructure could prevent the recurrent flooding that destroys lives and property, calling on the new administration to take decisive action on this pressing issue.
When asked if she would consider serving in Senator Okpebholo’s administration, Ndidi expressed her willingness, but with reservations. She stated that she would only be interested in serving if the environment is transparent and focused on genuinely improving the lives of the people.
“If the governor surrounds himself with people who are not committed to positive change, I won’t be part of such a government,” she asserted.
Turning to the broader national picture, Ndidi criticized the on-going leadership crisis in Nigeria, citing a lack of visionary leaders as a major reason for the country’s persistent economic challenges. She lamented the culture of blaming past administrations for present failures, arguing that true leadership requires clear vision and decisive action.
“Our leaders lack the political will to do what is necessary to fix the country’s economy. Instead, they cater to their political godfathers who have no empathy for the suffering of Nigerians,” she said.
Ndidi advocated for stronger private sector involvement in the economy, noting that the government’s harsh policies are stifling business growth and job creation.
She called for reforms that would enable the private sector to thrive, which, in turn, would generate much-needed employment for the Nigerian people.
In conclusion, she urged the new Edo administration and the federal government to prioritise security, as the escalating violence and instability across the country are major obstacles to any form of economic recovery.
“The insecurity plaguing Nigeria must be addressed as a matter of urgency. Without safety, there can be no development,” Ndidi warned.
