A chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and a House of Representatives hopeful, Esom Nwafor-Orizu, has called on public office-holders to embrace sacrificial leadership and prioritise the nation’s long-term prosperity over personal gain.
Nwafor-Orizu, who is vying for the Nnewi North/Nnewi South/Ekwusigo Federal Constituency seat in the 2027 National Assembly election, made the call in an Independence Day goodwill message.
She stressed that the country’s socio-economic progress rests heavily on leaders prepared to build enduring institutions for future generations.
Drawing inspiration from her late father, Dr. Akweke Nwafor-Orizu—a prominent nationalist and Nigeria’s Senate President during the First Republic (1963–1966)—she highlighted the enduring value of selfless public service.
“My father’s sacrifices and commitment to Nigeria continue to inspire me. They remind me that service is about what we give to our people and what we leave behind for generations to come,” she stated.
She recalled how, while still a student, her late father founded the American Council on Africa Education (ACAE), securing over 250 scholarships for young Nigerians and Africans in the 1950s—when access to higher education was severely restricted.
According to her, such initiatives demonstrate that meaningful leadership is measured not by political office but by lives touched and opportunities created.
Addressing current political and social realities, the House of Representatives hopeful urged Nigerians to treat the country’s cultural and regional diversity as an asset rather than a fault line.
“Beyond our differences, we are one people with a shared destiny. The Nigeria we desire is possible when we choose to build together,” Nwafor-Orizu asserted, adding that national development remains achievable if both citizens and political leaders make the necessary sacrifices to secure it.
Wishing Nigerians a peaceful Independence Day celebration and a prosperous month, she expressed optimism that national growth and economic opportunities would soon reach families and communities across the federation.
—By Jide Orintunsin
