By BANNERNEWS Reporter, CalabarA 60-year-old entrepreneur and philanthropist, John Onyi Agaba, has declared his intention to contest the Cross River North senatorial seat on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking with journalists in Calabar yesterday, Agaba has pledged to pursue constituency-driven power projects to boost small businesses and agro-processing, while also committing to the upgrade of primary healthcare centres with modern equipment and trained personnel.
Agaba, an indigene of Ebegang community in Ibiaragidi Ward, Bekwarra Local Government Area, made his declaration on Wednesday in Calabar, setting the stage for a potentially fierce contest ahead of the 2027 general elections.
His entry into the race is widely seen as a direct challenge to the incumbent senator, Jarigbe Agom, as well as former governor, Ben Ayade, who is reportedly eyeing a return to the Senate.
Agaba said his record of private-sector interventions in healthcare, education and poverty alleviation distinguishes him from other contenders.
“As a private citizen, I have funded interventions that have positively impacted lives. Do not give a man what will enslave him tomorrow; teach him, guide him, empower him, and watch him rise,” he said.
He outlined a development agenda for the five local government areas of Bekwarra, Obanliku, Obudu, Ogoja and Yala, identifying electricity, healthcare, roads, water, education and job creation as priority sectors.
On infrastructure, he promised the construction and rehabilitation of rural roads to support agricultural productivity, alongside the provision of potable water in underserved communities.
He further proposed the establishment of modern educational facilities and ICT training centres to equip young people with relevant skills for a changing economy.
To tackle unemployment, the aspirant said he would promote skill acquisition programmes backed with start-up support, business grants, scholarships and job facilitation initiatives targeted at women and youths.
Agaba also assured of regular consultations with traditional rulers and community leaders, and pledged to work with government agencies, development partners and the private sector to attract investment to the district.
He said his ambition is driven by a desire to deliver “lasting progress, shared prosperity and continued service to God and humanity” in Cross River North.
