A member of the Governing Board of the North East Development Commission (NEDC), Sam Onuigbo, has called on the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to field competent and experienced candidates for the National Assembly to strengthen the reform agenda of Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Onuigbo said President Tinubu’s resolve to consolidate on the Renewed Hope Agenda requires lawmakers who are “tried, tested and not found wanting” in character and competence.

He made the call while formally declaring his intention to contest the Abia Central Senatorial seat under the APC platform at Odoziobodo Hills, Obuohia Obi-Ibere, in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State.

Speaking on a prepared address titled “Time to Invest Experience in Renewed Hope,” Onuigbo said his decision followed wide consultations with family members, political associates, and stakeholders across the senatorial district.

“This gathering of my extended political family and leaders of our great party is part of ongoing efforts to build unity and shared understanding as we embark on this journey,” he said.

The former lawmaker, who represented Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives from 2015 to 2023, said his legislative experience positions him to deliver effective representation in the Senate.

He highlighted his long-standing commitment to service, noting that his professional background, including nearly 18 years of service with the U.S. Consulate in Lagos, shaped his vision for community development.

Onuigbo also pointed to his role in sponsoring Nigeria’s Climate Change Act 2021, describing it as a landmark achievement that elevated Nigeria’s global standing in sustainability.

According to him, the 2027 elections are crucial for the APC, stressing that retaining a majority in the National Assembly would be key to ensuring swift passage of executive bills needed to drive reforms.

“The consolidation of the Renewed Hope Agenda depends largely on the quality of lawmakers in the 11th National Assembly. Abia cannot afford to send individuals of doubtful pedigree,” he said.

Outlining his legislative philosophy anchored on Effectiveness, Accessibility, and Responsiveness (EAR), Onuigbo assured constituents of quality representation driven by integrity and diligence.

He also reflected on his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC in 2020, describing it as a decision guided by political foresight amid internal challenges within his former party.

“I feel vindicated today as many who once upheld impunity in the PDP have now found their way into the APC or elsewhere,” he added.

Onuigbo pledged to bring humility, honour, and competence to the Senate, insisting that his ambition is driven by a desire to serve rather than personal gain.

“My aspiration is to invest my experience in advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda and delivering purposeful representation to the people of Abia Central,” he stated.