By Martina Egobuike-Enebeli
KWALE/Nigeria: Dr. Mabel Magbulu, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the Ndokwa East, Ndokwa West and Ukwuani Federal Constituency, has explained why she chose the party as her political platform, outlining an agenda centred on electricity, economic empowerment and human capital development.
Magbulu, who is seeking election to the House of Representatives, said the ADC’s emphasis on people-centred leadership, accountability, inclusion and economic opportunity aligns with her vision for the constituency.
She described the party as progressive, pragmatic and social-democratic, saying its philosophy of “Eclectic Pragmatism” focuses on adopting practical ideas and policies that work for Nigeria rather than rigidly following a single ideological doctrine.
According to her, the ADC’s principles include democracy and constitutional governance, social justice, equity, private enterprise, entrepreneurship, accountable public institutions and inclusive national development.
“Political power is a public trust. Leadership is service,” she said, explaining the principles she associates with the party.
Magbulu added that the ADC’s emphasis on strong institutions, transparent leadership and measurable improvements in citizens’ lives influenced her decision to contest under its platform.
She said her objective was to translate those principles into practical interventions that would improve infrastructure, create economic opportunities and strengthen representation across the three local government areas.
Electricity, Jobs Top Development Priorities
Outlining her vision for Ndokwa-Ukwuani, Magbulu described her desired constituency as an economically vibrant area with reliable infrastructure, productive citizens and opportunities for young people to thrive.
She identified power and critical infrastructure, jobs and economic empowerment, and human capital development—particularly for youths and women—as her three immediate priorities.
“I intend to use effective legislation, strategic partnerships and constituency interventions to attract investment, expand economic opportunity, and turn our natural and human resources into sustainable prosperity,” she said.
The ADC candidate said electricity would receive immediate attention, citing the need for federal investment in power infrastructure and practical solutions for underserved communities.
She proposed advocacy for solar mini-grids and other off-grid electricity options, alongside legislative oversight to monitor the commitments and performance of relevant government agencies and service providers.
Magbulu also said she would work with government institutions, investors and development partners to attract sustainable power solutions to the constituency.
Plans Support for Youths, Women and Businesses
On economic empowerment, Magbulu said her approach would focus on skills, capital and market access, arguing that empowerment initiatives should lead to sustainable income.
She proposed skills training, entrepreneurship grants and affordable financing for youths and women, while farmers, traders and small business owners would be targeted for improved access to agricultural inputs, cooperative financing, storage, markets and business support.
“I am already engaging organisations and strategic partners who can support these initiatives, so we can move quickly from ideas to implementation once I assume office,” she stated.
She said her broader objective was to help residents move from dependency to productivity and from productivity to prosperity.
Proposes Ukwuani Legacy Centre
Magbulu also highlighted the proposed Ukwuani Legacy Centre (ULC), which she described as a cultural, tourism, education and enterprise hub designed to preserve local heritage while creating jobs and attracting investment.
She said the proposed centre could generate opportunities in hospitality, tourism, artisanship, entrepreneurship, technology and skills development.
“My real estate experience has taught me how to turn land, ideas and partnerships into economic opportunity,” she said.
According to her, the project reflects the integrated development model she wants to promote—one that combines cultural preservation with economic opportunity.
Legislative Approach and Partnerships
Magbulu said her understanding of the responsibilities of a member of the House of Representatives covers lawmaking, oversight and constituency representation.
She explained that lawmaking involves creating laws and policies that improve lives, while oversight requires scrutinising government agencies and ensuring accountability.
She added that constituency facilitation involves identifying the needs of the people and working through appropriate government channels to attract and monitor development projects.
The candidate said her entrepreneurial experience would help her prioritise projects based on actual needs, develop achievable proposals and build partnerships with government agencies, private investors and development organisations.
“For me, an idea is only valuable when you can turn it into a workable plan and deliver results,” she said.
Magbulu further promised to maintain regular town hall meetings and constituency engagements, provide updates on projects and budgets, and establish channels through which constituents could offer feedback and ask questions.
She said her proposed development agenda would be assessed through tangible outcomes, including projects delivered, jobs created, businesses supported, investment attracted and improvements in household livelihoods.
