Interview with NationalWatch Newspaper
By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
Shortly after receiving his Certificate of Return as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for Lokoja/Kogi Federal Constituency, Hon. Abdulkadir Ibrahim spoke with NationalWatch Newspaper on his ambition, plans for the constituency, and expectations ahead of the House of Representatives election.
Congratulations on receiving your Certificate of Return. What does this moment mean to you?
Thank you. It is a great honour and a moment of gratitude to Almighty God, the PDP leadership, delegates, and supporters who have entrusted me with this responsibility. I see the Certificate of Return as a call to serve the people of Lokoja/Kogi Federal Constituency with commitment, integrity, and accountability.
Why do you want to represent Lokoja/Kogi Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives?
My decision is inspired by my passion for service and my desire to bring effective representation to our people. I believe our constituency deserves a representative who will be accessible, responsive to the needs of the people, and committed to attracting meaningful development through quality legislation and oversight.
What will be your top priorities if elected?
My priorities include improving education, strengthening healthcare delivery, promoting infrastructure development, empowering youths and women, supporting agriculture, and creating employment opportunities. These are areas that have direct impact on the lives of our people.
Education remains a major concern for many families. What specific interventions do you have in mind?
I will advocate for improved educational infrastructure, support scholarship and bursary programmes for deserving students, and encourage vocational and digital skills acquisition to equip our youths for the future. Education remains the foundation of sustainable development.
Healthcare services are inadequate in many communities. How do you intend to address this challenge?
I will work closely with relevant federal agencies to attract interventions to our primary healthcare centres, facilitate the provision of modern medical equipment, and support initiatives that will improve access to quality and affordable healthcare.
Infrastructure is another challenge in the constituency. What are your plans?
My goal is to facilitate the rehabilitation of roads, improve rural electrification, expand access to potable water, and attract other constituency projects that will improve living conditions and support economic activities across the constituency.
Youth unemployment has become a growing concern. How will you tackle it?
I will prioritise youth and women empowerment through vocational training, entrepreneurship development, skills acquisition, and support for small businesses. I will also advocate policies that create sustainable employment opportunities and improve access to government intervention programmes.
How do you intend to maintain a close relationship with your constituents?
Representation is about listening and responding to the people. I will maintain an open-door policy, hold regular constituency engagements, and consult widely with traditional rulers, community leaders, women groups, youth organisations, religious leaders, and other stakeholders to ensure that their concerns are adequately represented.
What message would you like to leave with the people of Lokoja/Kogi Federal Constituency?
I sincerely appreciate everyone who has supported me throughout this journey. I humbly seek the support and prayers of the electorate. If elected, I will remain accountable, accessible, and committed to delivering quality representation that will attract development and improve the lives of our people. My promise is to be a representative who will always put the interests of the constituency first.
