The Abia Youth Advancement Network (AYAN) has openly endorsed Sir Mascot Uzor Kalu, the APC governorship hopeful in the state, while calling for wider support ahead of the 2027 elections, declaring that his leadership style resonates strongly with young people across the state.
The declaration followed a high-level consultative meeting involving members from different local government areas, where the group said it carefully reviewed leadership qualities, accessibility and commitment to youth-focused policies before reaching a collective decision.
AYAN said its position reflects what it described as growing confidence among Abia youths who are hungry for purposeful, inclusive and development-driven leadership.
Group leader, Comrade Chinedu Nwafor, explained that the decision was rooted in what he called a clear alignment between the aspirations of young people and the leadership approach associated with Kalu.
According to the network, many youths are gravitating toward leaders who embody accountability, transparency and a people-centered vision.
Members stressed that the support for Kalu is organic, necessitated by shared expectations around job creation, empowerment, entrepreneurship support and sustainable development.
The group maintained that its stance is not driven by partisan politics but by the urgent need for leadership that understands the socio-economic challenges facing young people in Abia.
AYAN also urged youths across the state to remain peaceful, united and issue-driven in their political engagements, emphasizing that responsible advocacy and constructive participation are vital for strengthening democracy.
