Former First Lady of Ondo State and Labour Party candidate for the Owerri Federal Constituency seat in the 2027 general election, Dr. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has secured the endorsement of the University of Nigeria Alumni Association (UNAA), Owerri Branch, following her formal declaration of political ambition before members of the association.
Dr. Anyanwu-Akeredolu, a member of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) Class of 1977, disclosed her aspiration during the branch’s monthly meeting, where she informed fellow alumni that she had emerged as the Labour Party’s candidate for the House of Representatives election in 2027.
Addressing the gathering, she commended the branch for embarking on the construction of an Alumni Centre, describing the project as a landmark initiative that would enhance the visibility, prestige and enduring legacy of the institution.
She praised the leadership and members of the association for their commitment and foresight, noting that alumni associations across the world undertake similar projects to strengthen their alma mater and foster a sense of belonging among graduates.
The former Ondo First Lady also lauded the branch’s unique fundraising culture through the sharing of kola nuts according to graduation years, popularly known in Igbo tradition as “Meka Oji.”
She described the initiative as an effective grassroots fundraising model and revealed plans to introduce the practice in the UNAA Ibadan Branch.
Speaking on her political journey, Dr. Anyanwu-Akeredolu explained her decision to switch from her earlier senatorial ambition to contesting for the House of Representatives, assuring members that her commitment to public service remained unwavering.
According to her, her mission is to promote increased women’s participation in elective positions and demonstrate that leadership is not determined by gender.
She pledged to champion community development through what she described as compassionate, courageous and purposeful leadership driven by experience, competence, credibility and dedication to service.
Following her remarks, members of the association unanimously adopted a motion endorsing her candidacy and declared her their preferred candidate for the Owerri Federal Constituency seat in the National Assembly.
In a further show of support, the association appointed four of its members to join her campaign organisation. The appointees are expected to assist in campaign activities and provide regular updates to the alumni body on the progress of the campaign.
The meeting ended with the rendition of the University Anthem, amid expressions of solidarity and optimism among members.
Speaking during the meeting, the Branch President stressed the need to elect individuals with strong intellectual capacity into legislative offices.
“We need to elect people whose intellectual input will drive the quality of legislation and help us do things better,” he said.
Dr. Anyanwu-Akeredolu expressed gratitude for the endorsement, describing it as a vote of confidence and a source of encouragement as she seeks to represent the people of Owerri Federal Constituency in the Green Chamber of the National Assembly.
