From Everest Ezihe, Aboh Mbaise
National President of the Hope Rising for Imolites Foundation (Olile Anya Di, Maka Odinma Ndimo), Barr. Success Akagburuonye has said that the people of Imo State deserve economic independence, stressing that massive job creation and entrepreneurship remain key to reducing poverty and improving livelihoods in the state.
Akagburuonye, spoke on Monday during the flag-off of his foundation’s empowerment training programme for Imolites drawn from the 27 local government areas of the state.
The event was held at the Assemblies of God Church auditorium, Ogbor Uvuru, in Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State.
He said the initiative, which is being funded with several millions of naira, is designed to equip and empower over 200 participants with practical skills in paints production technology, makeup artistry, catering, modern decoration, detergent production, and business development.
According to him, the two-week intensive training programme is part of his strategic efforts to cushion the harsh economic realities currently affecting many Nigerians, especially residents of Imo State.
Akagburuonye said his vision is to empower citizens with sustainable skills that will enable them to become self-reliant rather than dependent on handouts.
“I have said it loud and clear, and I will repeat it here today: I am not a professional politician or a typical Nigerian politician. I have my means of livelihood that sustains me, my family, and dependents,” he said.
He added that his goal is to inspire people to become self-confident, hardworking, and God-fearing while remaining compassionate toward others.
“I want to infect my followers with the spirit of self-confidence, teaching them to trust in God, work hard, and remain sensitive to the needs of others. We must show love, care, and be willing to make sacrifices to impact lives positively,” he said.
Akagburuonye further pledged to attract opportunities and development to Mbaise, Imo State, and Nigeria at large.
“I made a promise to myself that if I see anything good in Imo State, I will attract it to Mbaise. If I see anything good outside Imo State, I will bring it to the state. If I see anything beneficial outside Nigeria, I will attract it to Nigeria,” he stated.
The frontline Imo governorship hopeful for 2027 also reiterated his commitment to teaching people how to create wealth for themselves rather than merely providing temporary relief, while cautioning against sycophancy and betrayal.
Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Patience Mekwunye, leader of Pato-Binto Entrepreneurial and Skills Acquisition, Abuja, the organisation facilitating the training, alongside the Director of Projects, Mr. Muhammed Ibn Saheeb, outlined six key training areas.
These include paints production technology, makeup artistry, decoration, catering, household chemical production such as detergents and soap making, as well as entrepreneurship education aimed at fostering business growth and economic sustainability.
