Former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Usani Usani has expressed fears over the heavy debt profile of his home state, Cross River, warning that it is affecting the economic growth and investment of the state.
He said the state has lots of potentials that can be harnessed to make it more viable but the debt and sundry issues have bedevilled her.
He spoke when he hosted a sociopolitical group called Cross River North Youth Vanguard in his home, where he announced his intention to vie for the governorship of the state next year.
“Cross River is heavily indebted. The debts are impacting against socioeconomic development of the state.
“We have lots of natural resources that we can harness to our benefit yet we are being pulled back.”
“Cross River has all it takes to provide all the essential things in life to its citizens and to also be a leading State in terms of growth, development and technological advancement.
“All we need is to be prudent, honest, accountable, forthright in all we do”.
The former minister said if he becomes governor the cardinal policies will target younger people roaming the streets everywhere without jobs, women and children as well as the aged.
He advised Cross Riverians particularly the youths to watch out for politicians who do not have a clear direction, cautioning that such politicians cannot offer any good service to the people.
“The time the electorates used to vote people or political platforms who have nothing to offer is gone for good.
“Now I’m certain they will vote individuals who have the capacity, experience, wisdom, wealth of knowledge and a workable roadmap with a strategic blueprint that will better the lives of the people and transform the State”
He called on the youth to strive for messages that will positively change society instead of delving into irrelevant matters.
“As an aspiring leader or a leader, you must learn how to respond and proffer solutions to societal issues through effective and clear communication”
“You may have everything but if you do not have a message and empathy people won’t take you serious anywhere, but if your message is consistent, and a clear reflection of societal issues and challenges, gradually people will begin to like you and gradually you’ll rise to prominence.
“Many politicians today will tell you they want to lead but ask them of a possible idea of how to govern the people, they don’t know.
“That’s why I tell people that if your ideas cannot marry your intentions then you have a problem. We need people whose philosophy, ideology, dream and intention can marry their quest and determination to change society as our leaders and not the other way round”.
