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•President lauds his vision, service to Abia, nation
From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja, Felix Ikem, Nsukka and Oluseye Ojo
Nigerians from all walks of life have rained encomium on Senator Orji Uzor Kalu as he marks his birthday.
The former Abia governor and Senator representing Abia North, who turned 66 yesterday.
Kalu governed Abia from 1999 to 2007 and previously served as Senate Chief Whip. He now chairs the Senate Committee on the South East Development Commission (SEDC), one of the regional bodies established by Tinubu to drive zonal growth.
President Bola Tinubu celebrated Kalu, who he tagged as political ally and friend, as a resilient visionary committed to Nigeria’s progress and Abia State’s development.
In a State House press release issued by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu highlighted Kalu’s multifaceted contributions, from his political service to his role as a media mogul and Chairman of SLOK Holding, which bolsters national economic development.
“Senator Orji Uzor Kalu’s vision, resilience, industry and service to the nation and commitment to the progress of Abia are noteworthy,” Tinubu remarked. “As a media mogul and Chairman of SLOK Holding, the former Abia governor is also playing his part in the economic development of the country.”
Tinubu wished Kalu robust health and deeper wisdom moving forward: “I wish him long life, greater strength and increased wisdom as he continues his service to the nation.”
•Statesman, distinguished leader –Ikpeazu
Former governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, praised Dr. Kalu for remaining consistent in the shaping of conversations around development, enterprise, and the place of Abia within the broader Nigerian federation.
He particularly hailed him for his resilience and courage, describing him as a strong political voice that has continued to apply his vast administrative and legislative experiences for the good of Abians and Nigerians generally.
Ikpeazu said Kalu is a statesman and a true leader.
“Distinguished Senator Orji Uzo Kalu, on this auspicious occasion of your birthday, I extend my warmest congratulations and profound good wishes to you, a statesman of enduring influence, a central figure in the evolution of Abia’s political architecture, and a leader whose voice continues to resonate across the national landscape.
“Your trajectory in public service, from your tenure as governor of Abia State to your current role representing Abia North in the Senate, reflects not only experience but also strategic depth, political courage, and a firm grasp of governance and economic direction. You have remained a formidable force in shaping conversations around development, enterprise, and the place of Abia within the broader Nigerian federation.
“Through defining moments in our state and national history, you have demonstrated resilience, political dexterity, and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of our people. Your contributions to democratic development, legislative engagement, and the midwifing of democratic tolerance and equity stand as enduring markers of your relevance in Nigeria’s evolving political space.
“As you mark this milestone, I pray that the years ahead will usher in greater strength, expanded influence, and even more impactful contributions to the progress of our state and nation. May you continue to enjoy good health, clarity of purpose, and the wisdom to navigate the demands of leadership in these critical times.”
•Ejianya extols virtues
Publisher of 9News Nigeria, Obinna Ejianya, has showered encomiums on former Abia State governor Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, describing him as a leader of enduring influence, whose impact continues to resonate across Nigeria and beyond.
In a goodwill message personally signed in Melbourne, Australia, Ejianya commended Kalu’s contributions to national development, governance, and public service.
The tribute is among numerous goodwill messages pouring in from political leaders, associates, and well-wishers across Nigeria and beyond, celebrating Kalu’s legacy and contributions.
Kalu, representing Abia North in the National Assembly, noted that his legacy remains a source of inspiration within and outside the country.
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“On behalf of my family and myself, I extend my warmest congratulations to you on this remarkable milestone. Your enduring contributions to national development, exemplary leadership, and steadfast commitment to service continue to inspire admiration across Nigeria and beyond,” he said.
The media executive also listed Kalu’s personal influence, and described him as a mentor and trusted friend, whose guidance has left a lasting imprint on his life.
“It is a privilege to acknowledge not only your public accomplishments but also your personal impact as a mentor and a trusted friend. Your guidance and wisdom have left an indelible mark on my life,” Ejianya added. He further drew attention to the senator’s growing stature in the South-East, stressing its broader implications for national development and unity.
“Indeed, it is beyond doubt that you have risen to become one of the most influential leaders the South East has produced. I sincerely pray that this moment presents a defining opportunity for the South East to harness such leadership strength towards greater relevance, unity, and excellence within the Nigerian project.”
Ejianya, who also offered prayers for Kalu’s continued health and success, was optimistic that his leadership trajectory would remain impactful not only in Nigeria but across Africa and the global stage.
“As you celebrate, I pray that the Almighty God grants you continued good health, strength, and divine direction to fulfil your purpose and mandate for Nigeria, Africa, and the global community,” he said.
Ejianya wished the celebrant greater accomplishments, strength, and prosperity in the years ahead.
•SEDC hails leadership
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), Mark Okoye, noted that Kalu’s leadership has been instrumental in supporting the Commission’s mandate of fostering regional integration and economic growth.
“Your leadership as Chairman of the Senate Committee on the South East Development Commission has provided critical guidance and support as we work to lay the foundations for a more prosperous and integrated region,” Okoye stated.
The SEDC boss further highlighted Kalu’s commitment to enterprise and people-oriented development, describing it as both visible and impactful.
He added that the Commission remains optimistic about deepening collaboration with the Senate Committee under Kalu’s leadership to deliver tangible outcomes for the South East.
“As we continue this important journey, I look forward to strengthening our collaboration in delivering tangible outcomes that will shape the future of the South East,” he added.
Okoye also wished the former Abia State governor good health, strength, and many more years of impactful service.
•World better because of you –Aide
Legislative aide to Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, Mr. Emmanuel Iheakachukwu Odoemelam, has described Kalu’s leadership as selfless, sacrificial, and pragmatic.
“The world is a better place because men like you exist. Your contributions span across diverse fields of human endeavour, and you remain poised to do even more for humanity,” he said in a statement.
Noting that his contributions have positively impacted countless lives in Nigeria and beyond, he highlighted Kalu’s exceptional ability to successfully manage family, business, politics and philanthropy, describing it as truly admirable and a source of inspiration to many.
Odoemelam also commended the senator’s wisdom, interpersonal skills, and effective time management, adding that he remains kind, open-minded, detribalized, and emotionally intelligent.
While thanking him for making him one of his legislative aides and for his support for his academic pursuit, Odoemelam offered prayers for Kalu’s continued good health and sound mind.
“May God grant you enduring strength and clarity of mind to continue the mission of social transformation and human development entrusted to you,” he said. “Happy birthday and congratulations.”
