THERESA AKWAJI USHIE: Leading Bekwarra Towards a Brighter Future

Oru Leonard 

Theresa Akwaji Ushie, a visionary leader and compassionate advocate, stands as a beacon of hope for the people of Bekwarra Local Government Area. As she steps forward to contest the chairmanship of Bekwarra LGA, her candidacy is not just a political move, it is a call to rebuild, restore, and lead with fairness, inclusion, and equality.

Theresa’s journey is rooted in a story of discipline, honesty, and love. Born in the 1980s into the family of Mr. Emmanuel Agwu Ushie and the late Mrs. Monica Agwu Ushie, she was raised with the values of hard work and empathy that have shaped her into the leader she is today. As the third of nine children, she grew up in the town of Ikanda in Beten, Bekwarra, with an innate sense of responsibility, a virtue she honed through her early role as a caregiver to her younger siblings. This foundation of nurturing and selflessness laid the groundwork for her lifelong commitment to her community.

Fondly called “Queen Mother” by those who know her well, Theresa’s compassion is as natural as it is profound. Her kindness and empathy have endeared her to many, especially the marginalized and vulnerable members of society. From her days as a student at St. Benedict Primary School in Igoli, Ogoja, and later at Bekwarra Secondary School, Abouchiche, Theresa has shown a commitment to education, a profession she proudly champions. With degrees in education from the National Teachers’ Institute, Kaduna, and the University of Calabar, she has dedicated herself to nurturing young minds, believing that education is the bedrock of any progressive society.

Theresa Akwaji Ushie is more than just an educator; she is a champion for the underrepresented. Through her work with the Theresa Ushie Foundation, she has made a tangible impact on the lives of many. Her philanthropic endeavors have touched the lives of over 2,000 teenage girls by improving menstrual hygiene and dignity through the distribution of sanitary pads. She has offered free JAMB registrations to tertiary education applicants and sponsored SSCE registrations for indigent students in Bekwarra. Widows across the ten wards of Bekwarra have been empowered with food, clothes, and financial support.

Her focus on women and youth is not coincidental. Theresa recognizes that for Bekwarra to rise, the potential of its women and young people must be fully realized. Through her selfless actions, she has inspired countless individuals to believe in a future where equality and opportunity are not just ideals but realities.

Theresa’s leadership journey is marked by resilience, tenacity, and an unwavering commitment to the common good. Since joining the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2014, she has remained a dedicated servant to her party and her people. While her initial foray into politics, contesting the councilorship seat for Beten Ward in 2017, did not yield victory, she was undeterred. Again, in 2020, she contested for the position of Vice Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government. Though unsuccessful, she chose not to seek redress, demonstrating her commitment to peace and unity over personal gain. Theresa also contested for the APC National Women Leadership position, further underscoring her dedication to representing women at the highest levels.

Her leadership extends far beyond local politics. Theresa has held various high-profile roles, including Director General of the Rural Women Support Group and Director of Women and Youth Affairs for the National Unity Movement for Bola Ahmed Tinubu. She was a crucial member of the campaign council and think tank of Senator Tanko Al-Makura’s bid for APC National Chairman and served on the APC Appeal Committee for the Chibok Constituency in Borno State. Her influence in shaping national political strategies remains strong, all while maintaining her dedication to grassroots development.

Bekwarra Local Government, with its rich cultural heritage and abundant human resources, has been left behind in terms of development. For too long, the people of Bekwarra have struggled under the weight of unfulfilled promises and missed opportunities. Theresa Ushie’s candidacy represents a turning point. Her vision for Bekwarra is clear: a local government built on fairness, inclusion, and equality one that offers every individual, regardless of gender or social standing, the chance to thrive.

Theresa believes that true leadership begins with a heart for service. As chairman of Bekwarra Local Government, she pledges to focus on key areas such as:

– Education: Strengthening the educational foundation of Bekwarra by providing resources and support to schools, ensuring that children and youths have the tools they need to succeed.

– Empowerment of Women and Youths: Continuing her advocacy for women’s rights and youth empowerment by creating platforms for skill acquisition, entrepreneurship, and leadership development.

– Health and Wellbeing: Ensuring access to basic healthcare services, particularly for women and children, and improving the overall quality of life in the community.

– Infrastructure and Development: Working towards the rehabilitation and construction of essential infrastructure, including roads, schools, and healthcare facilities.

– Economic Growth: Fostering a thriving local economy by supporting small businesses, agriculture, and trade.

Theresa Ushie is not just another candidate in the race for chairmanship she is a leader Bekwarra can trust to bring about lasting change. Her passion for the people, her proven track record of service, and her unshakable integrity make her the ideal choice to steer Bekwarra into a brighter future.

Her message is simple but powerful: “It’s time for Bekwarra.” The time has come to rise, to rebuild, and to create a local government that works for everyone. With Theresa Akwaji Ushie at the helm, Bekwarra’s future is filled with promise. It’s Bekwarra O’Clock, and the dawn of a new era is upon us.