Labour Party affirms Okereke as flag-bearer; launches ‘believe again’ vision
By John Alechenu, Abuja
The Labour Party (LP) on Thursday officially endorsed Dr. Chibuzo Okereke as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, as he unveiled an ambitious national agenda tagged “Believe Again,” anchored on a “Nigerians First” approach.
Okereke’s endorsement was confirmed during a hybrid meeting of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) held at the LP national headquarters in Utako, Abuja.
In his acceptance speech, the presidential hopeful pledged to provide leadership capable of restoring public confidence in government and rebuilding key national institutions.
Expressing gratitude for the confidence reposed in him, Okereke thanked party leaders, members, and stakeholders for the opportunity, emphasizing that the prosperity of Nigerians remains central to his vision.
“Our belief is simple: when Nigerians succeed, the nation succeeds,” he stated.
He described the Labour Party as a platform that represents workers, professionals, artisans, farmers, women, youths, persons living with disabilities, and everyday citizens. According to him, the party remains Nigeria’s preferred political alternative and a true champion of democratic socialism and social justice.
Okereke paid tribute to the party’s National Leader, Dr. Alex Otti, commending his people-oriented administration in Abia State and expressing confidence that similar governance could transform the country. He also acknowledged the contributions of National Chairman Senator Nenadi Usman, members of the National Working Committee, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and party supporters at home and abroad.
Explaining the rationale behind the “Believe Again” slogan, Okereke said it was designed to address the growing loss of confidence among citizens in public institutions, meritocracy, and the prospect of a brighter future. He maintained that Nigeria’s greatest strength lies in its people rather than its natural resources.
The LP flagbearer presented a five-point recovery plan focused on strengthening national security and unity; stabilising the economy, ensuring food security, and promoting productive growth; improving education and healthcare; implementing institutional reforms and good governance; and fostering national unity and social cohesion.
On security, he promised a comprehensive approach involving all stakeholders, alongside the modernisation of the armed forces and other security agencies. In the economic sector, he pledged to eliminate obstacles to investment, including inadequate power supply, poor infrastructure, inconsistent policies, and regulatory challenges. He also advocated decentralising the national grid and enhancing collaboration with state governments to unlock regional economic opportunities.
In the areas of education and healthcare, Okereke promised increased investment in foundational education, vocational training, digital skills, research, and broader healthcare coverage to position Nigeria for global competitiveness.
He further proposed extensive reforms in governance, including the adoption of zero-based budgeting, stronger anti-corruption measures, digital transformation of public services, and merit-driven recruitment processes. He said key federal agencies would be reviewed, while responsibility for basic education and primary healthcare would be devolved to local governments. He also suggested making participation in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) optional for most graduates, except those in designated fields.
As part of efforts to bridge national divides, Okereke proposed the introduction of a National Day of Peace and Forgiveness aimed at promoting reconciliation and strengthening harmony among different ethnic and religious groups.
Addressing security personnel, farmers, pensioners, women, youths, academics, and entrepreneurs, he repeatedly encouraged Nigerians to embrace hope and renew their faith in the nation’s future.
He assured citizens that an LP-led administration would prioritise governance over politics, service above personal power, and national development above partisan considerations.