From Ayobami Balogun, Lagos
The Niger Delta Young Professionals (NDYP) has called on the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, to pick Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom state as his running mate.
The forum noted that Governor Udom’s leadership style in Akwa Ibom State has aggressively attracted an array of industries, sustained public-private sector initiative, and opened up opportunities for growth and improved living standards, especially for young people.
It said the choice of Udom will win the hearts and support of young Nigerians who form the bulk of eligible voters.
NDYF, which made the clarion call in a Communique issued by his spokesperson Dr. Kingsley George, stressed that the Governor stands out among other of his counterparts like Delta State’s Ifeanyi Okowa and Rivers State’s Nyesom Wike, who have all been pencilled down as possible running mates for Atiku.
According to the NDYP, the choice of Gov. Udom is tied to his grand achievements in Akwa Ibom which are visible for all to see.
“He is an astute professional, a seasoned banker, he is industrialising Akwa Ibom State,” the group said.
The NDYP paid particular emphasis on Ibom Air which is a state investment and a professional carrier that meets global standards. The young professionals in the oil-rich region also noted that the Ibom Air project has created jobs for so many young Nigerian graduates.
The NDYP also recommended former Cross River Governor, Donald Duke, and Bayelsa’s Timi Alaibe as non-serving governors who also have the interest of young Nigerians at heart.
