Addingi resigns as Benue Gov’s Aide, declares Reps bid for Buruku, unveils development agenda

By Johnson Arua

The Special Adviser to the Benue State Governor on International Investment, Alex Addingi, has resigned his position to pursue a seat in the House of Representatives for Buruku Federal Constituency.

Addingi announced his decision while addressing journalists at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) House in Makurdi, where he lamented the pace of development in Buruku Local Government Area and pledged to reverse the trend if elected.

“Buruku has lagged behind in development for too long. I am stepping forward to change that narrative and bring meaningful progress to our people,” he said.

He outlined plans to stimulate economic growth through large-scale cultivation of hybrid palm trees, a project he said would create jobs and position Buruku as a key hub for palm oil production in Benue State and beyond.

The aspirant also revealed ongoing discussions with Chinese partners aimed at equipping schools in four wards with modern laboratories and providing scholarship opportunities for students to study in China.

Highlighting youth empowerment as a major focus, Addingi disclosed that about 5,000 young people are currently undergoing digital skills training under his initiative, aimed at tackling unemployment and reducing social vices.

He stressed that his ambition is rooted in service rather than personal gain. “I am not interested in building mansions or buying flashy cars. My focus is on developing my people,” he said.

Addingi expressed optimism about his electoral chances, citing zoning arrangements and growing grassroots support.

“With the existing zoning arrangement and the support I have received, I am confident that we will achieve empowerment, wealth creation, and a brighter future for Buruku,” he added.

Reflecting on his tenure in government, he noted that he played a role in attracting foreign investments to Benue State, including initiating an exchange programme with a Chinese province and organising the state’s first International Investment Summit, efforts he said have improved the state’s investment climate.