As preparations intensify for the forthcoming local government elections in Anambra State, former spokesperson of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM), Mr. Cornel Osigwe has formally declared his intention to contest for the chairmanship of Nnewi North Local Government Area under the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA)
Osigwe made the declaration on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Nnewi Hotel, Nnewi, before a large gathering of youths, women, community leaders, and party stakeholders.
Addressing the audience, Osigwe said Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s vision of building a prosperous, livable and smart Anambra State must be effectively driven at the grassroots, where government policies have the most direct impact on the lives of the people.
He noted that Nnewi North requires purposeful and competent leadership at the local level to translate the governor’s development agenda into tangible results, adding that he possesses the experience and capacity to deliver such outcomes.
According to him, his decision to join the race followed extensive consultations with community leaders, stakeholders, and leaders of APGA across Nnewi.
“This aspiration is not driven by personal ambition, but by preparedness and conviction. After prayerful reflection and careful evaluation of my capacity to serve, I am convinced that I have the experience, clarity of vision, and commitment required to lead Nnewi North effectively,” Osigwe said.
He stressed that public office should be viewed as a platform for service rather than a reward for loyalty, adding that leadership must focus on building institutions and systems that serve the collective interest of the people.
Unveiling his manifesto titled “Nnewi Rising,” Osigwe pledged to restore confidence in local governance and deliver measurable grassroots development if elected chairman of the council.
“I am not desperate for office, but deeply committed to delivering real, visible and lasting progress in sustainable infrastructure, improved security of lives and property, youth and child empowerment through skills acquisition and opportunities, as well as the restoration of peace, unity and social harmony across our communities,” he said.
He further promised to mobilise the energy, ideas, and resources of the people of Nnewi North to drive inclusive development through strategic partnerships and community-owned initiatives.
Osigwe called on APGA to support his aspiration and grant him the party’s ticket for the Nnewi North chairmanship, assuring that he would effectively translate the Soludo administration’s vision into practical governance, unite the people and reposition Nnewi for sustainable growth.
Several stakeholders who spoke at the event expressed confidence in Osigwe’s leadership capacity.
The President General of Ndimgbu Community, Barr. C.U. Okeke described Osigwe as knowledgeable, experienced, and genuinely committed to the progress of Nnewi. Similarly, the Youth President of Nkpoka Youth Development Union, Nnewichi, Mr. Ebuka Obiamalu said Osigwe could be trusted with the leadership of the council, noting his passion for youth development.
Other speakers, including Hon. Chimezie Obiaso, Mr. Okonkwo Anthony Okafor and Mr. Obiora Arinzechukwu also attested to Osigwe’s suitability for the position.
Earlier, the Anambra State Chairman of APGA, Chief Ifeatu Obi-Okoye, represented by the party’s State Treasurer, Hon. (Mrs.) Vero Nweke congratulated Osigwe on his declaration and described it as a bold step.
He advised the aspirant to remain focused on service to the people and on6 policies that would make Nnewi more prosperous if elected.
The well-attended ceremony drew youths, women, and APGA stakeholders from across Anambra State and Nnewi North Local Government Area