Delight Chinedum

Leading contender for the Anambra governorship, Valentine Ozigbo on Saturday successfully participated in the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial screening at the party’s National Secretariat in Wuse II, Abuja.

The screening, conducted under the oversight of the APC National Working Committee, was chaired by HE Ibrahim Shehu Shema, former Governor of Katsina State. This marks a critical step in his bid to become the party’s candidate in the November election.

Emerging from the screening, Ozigbo, who has positioned himself as a unifying force in Anambra politics, reaffirmed his commitment to good governance, economic growth, and security in the state.

Speaking to journalists after the exercise, Ozigbo highlighted his motivation for running, citing Anambra’s need for leadership that prioritises progress, security, and economic transformation.

“I have always been guided by my principles—my allegiance is first to God, then to the people of Anambra, and finally to the greater good of Nigeria,” Ozigbo stated.

One of Nigeria’s most recognisable philanthropists, Ozigbo is the immediate past President and Group CEO of Transcorp Plc where he oversaw significant growth and investment across Nigeria.

His background in corporate governance, finance, and economic development, he believes, uniquely positions him to drive Anambra’s transformation into a hub of industry and innovation.

“Anambra deserves leadership that is visionary, accountable, and people-focused,” Ozigbo, a multiple-award-winning global CEO, said.

“We cannot afford to repeat the same cycles of governance that have failed to address security challenges, economic stagnation, and lack of basic infrastructure.

“Politics should not be about personal ambition or sentiment—it should be about delivering value to the people.

“After careful thought, I realised that the best way to serve Ndi Anambra was through a platform that offers the structure and capacity to drive real development. APC provides that opportunity.”

Ozigbo further reacted to concerns about some of his supporters not continuing because of his new party, stating that his base remains committed to his leadership, irrespective of party affiliation.

“The same Valentine Ozigbo that people supported yesterday is the same today,” he asserted. “I remain true to my values of transparency, inclusiveness, and service.”

With APC’s screening process concluding, the focus now shifts to the party’s primary in which Ozigbo remains a formidable contender, with strong grassroots appeal and cross-party endorsements.

“This is not about me—it is about the future of Anambra,” he emphasised.

“I call on all who believe in progress to join this movement. Together, we will build an Anambra that works for everyone.”

In 2020, Ozigbo, founder of the eponymous Valentine Chineto Ozigbo (VCO) Foundation, left Corporate Nigeria to dedicate the next chapter of his life to public service.

His inspiring nature, uplifting rhetoric, and style of politics had never been seen in Nigeria. His unifying personality and message inspired the biggest political grassroots movement in South East Nigeria.

Last month, the inspirational figure launched the Valiant Movement, a tech and youth-driven grassroots movement focused on taking the Ka Anambra Chawapu (Igbo for Anambra must shine brighter) message to every corner of the southeastern state.

With the election cycle gaining momentum, political observers are closely watching how Ozigbo’s campaign unfolds.