Chief Michael Aondoakaa, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Benue State, has made a pledge to create at least 100,000 jobs annually for young people across the state if elected in 2027. He made this promise while addressing commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as okada riders, in Makurdi. The riders gave Aondoakaa a carnival-like welcome, converging at the Agan Toll Gate and accompanying him into Makurdi in a long procession.
Aondoakaa's administration plans to work with the private sector to provide financial support to young people through cooperatives, entrepreneurship schemes, and other empowerment initiatives. This aims to enable youths to become gainfully self-employed and financially independent, thereby reducing the prevalence of political thuggery. He emphasized that the energy of Benue youths should be channeled towards productive ventures rather than political violence.
The PDP candidate's pledge aligns with jobs and enterprise being listed among the priorities of his campaign agenda, alongside agriculture, education, security, healthcare, and accountable governance. Aondoakaa's government would deliberately partner with the private sector through agriculture, agro-processing, MSMEs, construction, manufacturing, technology, and services to stimulate investment and employment opportunities.
Aondoakaa also spoke against the development of personality cults around political office holders, stating that Benue State belongs to its people and is greater than any individual occupying the office of governor. He emphasized that leadership should be about service to the people rather than elevating an individual above the state or its people.
The reception by the motorcycle operators comes amid a series of engagements between Chief Aondoakaa and political, professional, and community groups ahead of the 2027 governorship election. Different groups have publicly identified with his candidature and declared support for his campaign.
Aondoakaa's campaign has continued to emphasize security, agriculture, jobs and enterprise, education, healthcare, and accountable governance as major areas of focus ahead of the 2027 election. His campaign has gained momentum, with various groups publicly declaring their support for his candidature.
Chief Aondoakaa, a former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, has been engaging with various groups in Benue State as part of his campaign. His pledge to create 100,000 jobs annually and tackle thuggery has resonated with young people in the state, who are eagerly awaiting the 2027 governorship election.
Key points
- Aondoakaa pledges to create 100,000 jobs annually for young people in Benue State if elected in 2027.
