By Moses Okorie
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) has endorsed its National Chairman, Chief Dan Nwanyanwu, as the party’s consensus presidential candidate.
The endorsement was made through affirmation by leaders and supporters of the political party who converged in Abuja for their national congress on Saturday, and unanimously expressed confidence in Nwanyanwu’s leadership capacity and vision for Nigeria.
In his acceptance speech, Chief Nwanyanwu thanked party members for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to provide purposeful leadership if elected President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“I must thank you for believing in me and for the confidence you have in my ability. I assure you that I will make good use of this mandate,” he said.
The ZLP presidential candidate outlined key priorities that would form the foundation of his administration, including national unity, security, anti-corruption reforms, energy development, industrialization, and youth empowerment.
Nwanyanwu identified national unity as the foremost challenge confronting Nigeria, arguing that ethnic and religious divisions have weakened the country’s cohesion over the years.
According to him, his administration would prioritize inclusive governance, restore citizens’ confidence in the nation, and implement policies aimed at strengthening patriotism and national integration.
“Our diversity ought to be a source of strength, but it has been poorly managed. My government will treat national unity as an emergency and take urgent steps to restore trust among Nigerians,” he stated.
The ZLP candidate described the current security situation as alarming and pledged to adopt a more decisive approach to tackling terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities.
He promised to strengthen security agencies through improved funding, modern technology, and enhanced welfare packages for personnel.
Nwanyanwu also advocated the establishment of state and community policing structures, arguing that Nigeria’s centralized policing system is inadequate for a country of its size and population.
“If elected, I will equip and direct all security agencies to decisively confront insurgents and criminals. Those arrested will be prosecuted swiftly, while their collaborators and sponsors will also face the full weight of the law,” he said.
On corruption, Nwanyanwu promised a zero-tolerance policy, noting that corruption remains one of the greatest obstacles to Nigeria’s development.
He pledged to strengthen anti-corruption institutions, improve transparency in public finance management, and establish preventive mechanisms to curb the diversion of public resources.
“My administration will review existing anti-corruption laws to make agencies more proactive and effective. We will ensure accountability across all sectors of government,” he declared.
Chief Nwanyanwu criticized the country’s poor electricity supply despite its abundant natural resources and promised comprehensive reforms in the energy sector.
He advocated greater private-sector participation, investment in renewable energy, modernization of the national grid, and the exploration of Nigeria’s vast coal deposits as part of a broader strategy to improve power generation.
“Nigeria cannot achieve meaningful development without adequate electricity. My government will explore all available energy options to ensure stable and affordable power supply for citizens and businesses,” he said.
The ZLP flagbearer also unveiled plans to promote industrialization by improving the ease of doing business, supporting local manufacturing, and attracting foreign direct investment.
He pledged to create an enabling environment for entrepreneurs and small businesses through easier access to finance, improved infrastructure, and business-friendly policies.
Nwanyanwu stressed that empowering young entrepreneurs would be central to reducing unemployment and stimulating economic growth.
“Our young people possess enormous talent and creativity. Government must provide the environment and support needed for them to create opportunities rather than wait endlessly for jobs,” he said.