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Tag: Kalu

  • Kalu urges youths to shun violence

    Kalu urges youths to shun violence

    Former Senate Chief Whip Orji Uzor Kalu has urged youths to shun violence and embrace peace for the economic development and progress of the country.

    According to a statement by his media office in Abuja yesterday, Kalu made the call on Sunday in Igbere, Bende Local Government of Abia State, while speaking with reporters on the need for enduring peace in the senatorial district, Abia State and Nigeria at large.

    The lawmaker, an ex-governor of Abia State, while inspecting a multi-billion naira cashew processing plant he is building in the community, enjoined youths to embrace dialogue, tolerance, compromise and accommodation for the economic development of the area.

    He said there was need for youths to realise that there was no alternative to peace if the senatorial district, state and Nigeria must grow economically.

    Read Also: Buhari’s life outside the Villa

    Kalu appealed to youths in Abia State to work with the government and security operatives in the state to restore peace and stability for businesses to thrive.

    He said: “Our message to the youth in Abia State is to stop acts that will demoralise investors. They should allow us to come home and invest. It is my hope that by the time we finish this factory—which is purely agro-allied, all cashew nuts produced in Nigeria will be exported raw. I want to produce cashew nuts that can be exported and help the country earn foreign money in order to reduce the rising rate of dollar.

    “Young people should learn to stop fighting security agencies, but be friends with them. As governor, I worked closely with them and they should cooperate with the new government so that we can have peace in the state and other parts of the country.

    “It is only when we have peace, social growth that we can have a conducive atmosphere to live in. Let the youth give us peace so that we can employ them.”

    Kalu, the lawmaker representing Abia North Senatorial District, noted that the establishment of the factory was to mitigate the ravaging effects of youth restiveness, unemployment and insecurity in the state.

  • Kalu bags traditional title of Enyi Abia

    Kalu bags traditional title of Enyi Abia

    • Otti: Deputy Speaker has golden heart

    Traditional rulers in Abia State yesterday conferred on Kalu the tradition title of Enyi Abia (Strength of Abia).

    The Chairman of the state Council of Traditional Rulers, His Royal Majesty, Sir Linus Mbah, conferred the title on the Deputy Speaker in recognition of his legislative contributions at the National Assembly.

    A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Levinus Nwabughiogu, said the conferment ceremony was organised by the Abia State Governor Otti at a grand reception held in his honour by the Abia State government at the International Conference Centre in Umuahia, the state capital.

    Also, Kalu has said the Igbo are proud of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

    Kalu said the Igbo hold President Tinubu in high esteem.

    The Deputy Speaker said the Igbo never had so many representatives under previous governments, stressing that the Southeast now has many Southeast indiegenes in key positions in President Tinubu’s administration.

    He hailed the President for allowing Abia State to produce the Number Six Citizen, to produce the Chief of Naval Staff and other key members of his Cabinet, including the Minister of Works.

    Read Also: Tinubu, Akpabio to attend PISE-P launch, reception for Kalu in Abia

    He urged the Igbo to discover their spirit of togetherness and work towards “collaboration to live a legacy of peace and progress for generations to come”.

    Kalu also praised Governor Alex Otti for his leadership advancement in the state, saying the governor has shown commitment to give attention to infrastructural development in the state, especially road and urban renewal as well as education and healthcare.

    Otti described Kalu as a good man with a good spirit.

    The governor said the Deputy Speaker deserved all the encomiums and celebrations from Abia residents.

    “What we have done today is what should be done. Rt. Hon. Ben Kalu deserves all the encomiums, all the celebration and, if we continue to celebrate him till the end of this year, we wouldn’t have done too much. 

    “Why? It’s because, first and foremost, he is a good man with a good spirit. From my own personal bias, he is my younger brother, my friend of several years, more than 15 to 20 years.”

  • Kalu: chieftaincy titles for President, VP, APC chair will enhance national integration

    Kalu: chieftaincy titles for President, VP, APC chair will enhance national integration

    House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu has said the conferment of Igbo traditional titles on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima will reinforce national cohesion and integration. 

    Congratulating the President and the Vice President on the conferment of Igbo chieftaincy titles Eze Udo of Igbo Land (King of Peace in Igbo Land) and Enyi Ndigbo (A Friend of Igbo people) on them, Kalu expressed confidence that the honour would lead to the much-desired peace in the Southeast. 

    Ganduje was conferred with the title of Agunechemba I of Ndigbo (the Lion that protects Igbo people).  

    President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima were honoured with the chieftaincy titles at the 32nd Ukpo Ofala celebration of His Royal Highness, Igwe Dr. Robert Chukwudilim Eze (Okofia VI), the Igwe Ukpo and Clan Head of Dunuokofia Ancient Kingdom in Ukpo, Dunukofia Local Government Area of Anambra State. 

    Shettima represented President Tinubu at the event.

    Kalu, who was among the dignitaries at the ceremony, expressed his delight on the development. 

    Others included Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma; the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Umar Abdullahi Ganduje; and the Chief Executive Officer of Atlas Oranto Petroleum, Prince Arthur Eze.

    In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, Kalu noted that the traditional titles were significant in Igbo tradition. 

    The Deputy Speaker hailed President Tinubu’s administration for giving the Igbo a sense of belonging through his appointments, saying the development would reinforce national cohesion and integration. 

    He also expressed joy that the traditional titles were coming on the heels of a new peace initiative, called Peace in South East Project (PISE-P), birthed to resolve the security challenges, among other sociological issues in the region, through non-kinetic approaches and restore peace. 

    Kalu expressed optimism that the Southeast would receive unprecedented attention from the present APC government.

    He urged the people to embrace peace and remain steadfast. 

    Shettima said the Tinubu administration understood the challenges of Ndi Igbo and would work assiduously to address them. 

    “With our leaders, like Senator Hope Uzodinma, Senator Dave Umahi, and Ben Kalu, the process of integrating Ndi Igbo into the mainstream of Nigerian politics has commenced. Senator Ifeanyi Uba has just joined APC.

    “Wherever you go in this country, if you do not see an Igbo man, you better run away from that place. Why won’t I identify with you? Rest assured that Ndi Igbo are the heartbeat of the Nigerian nation. We will work assiduously to see that Ndi Igbo are well represented,” the VP said. 

    Read Also: Rivers crisis: appreciate Tinubu for intervening  – Wike

    Shettima also attended the burial of the father of Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo, Pa Nwankwo, at Isuofia in Aguata Local Government Area. 

    The Ofala Festival was organised and sponsored by billionaire oil magnate, Prince Arthur Eze.

    Igwe Robert Eze said Ganduje was honoured with the traditional title as one of the leading detribalised politicians in Nigeria. 

    The monarch narrated how the APC national chairman protected the Ndigbo while he was governor of Kano State.  

    Other dignitaries at the event were Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun; APC Vice Chairman (Southeast), Dr. Ijeomah Arodiogbu, and the party’s Deputy Publicity Secretary, Duro Meseko, among others.

  • Buhari at 81: Governors, Lalong, Kalu, Fayemi, Tallen, others eulogise ex-President

    Buhari at 81: Governors, Lalong, Kalu, Fayemi, Tallen, others eulogise ex-President

    Governors AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (Kwara), Umar Dikko Radda (Katsina), Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Babagana Zulum (Borno) have poured encomiums on former President Muhammadu Buhari on yesterday’s celebration of his 81st birthday.

    The senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, former Labour and Employment Minister Simon Bako Lalong, ex-Senate President Ahmad Lawan, ex-Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, former Women Affairs and Social Development Minister Pauline Tallen, and Katsina State House of Assembly Speaker Nasir Yahaya-Daura also felicitated the ex-President on his special day.

    In a statement yesterday in Ilorin, the state capital, by his Chief Press Secretary, Mallam Rafiu Ajakaye, the Kwara State governor, who is also the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), described the ex-President as a leader with many outstanding accomplishments.

    AbdulRazaq said the former President symbolises humility, grit, calm, and patriotism.

    “He will be remembered for his giant strides in infrastructural transformation of Nigeria and his trail-blazing investments in retooling the Nigerian security architecture, especially the military,” the statement said.

    Read Also: Kano: No deal with NNPP to compromise Supreme Court judgement, APC dispel rumour

    A statement by his Chief Press Secretary Mohammed Kalau, which conveyed the message of the governor of Buhari’s home state, reads: “Governor Radda commends the enduring qualities that make former President Buhari an iconic figure, his unwavering commitment to honesty, fairness, and deep love for the nation.

    “The governor expresses his sincere hope for the former President’s continued good health and happiness on this momentous occasion.”

    Also, in a congratulatory message yesterday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, Governor Sanwo-Olu said: “Former President Muhammadu Buhari contributed immensely to Nigeria’s unity, growth and development, right from his youthful days till he bowed out of office as President on May 29, 2023, having served Nigeria passionately in different capacities as Minister of Petroleum Resources, Head of State and President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.”

    In a message on behalf of the government and people of Borno State, Governor Zulum said: “From his inaugural speech in 2015 to his actions till he left office, Buhari gave undivided attention to the fight against Boko Haram in Borno and the rest of the Northeast.”

    In a statement yesterday in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital, Kalu described Buhari as a selfless and a patriotic statesman who has passion for nation-building.

    For Lalong, the former President is a patriotic Nigerian who continues to inspire the younger generation.

    Also, in a birthday message at the weekend in Abuja, Lawan described Buhari as a remarkable leader who dedicated his life to the service of the country and left an enduring legacy.

    In her birthday message, Dame Tallen, who served under Buhari, acknowledged that the former President’s long-standing commitment to the country remained unwavering and legendary.

    “Yours has been a record of steadfast service to our nation at different political epochs: having served as a military officer, military governor, minister, military Head of State, and President of Nigeria,” she said.

    In a statement yesterday in Abuja by his media aide, Mallam Ahmad Sajoh, former Governor Fayemi said: “As President, HE Buhari was dedicated to the welfare of the Nigerian people and worked tirelessly to advance the nation’s development.

    “He became President at a difficult time in our nation’s history, at a time when insecurity was rife with bombings across the country, especially in Abuja, the nation’s capital. However, through his leadership, we witnessed a great turnaround as the insurgency was largely contained, giving Nigerians a respite.”

  • Kalu, Sanwo-Olu, Otu, Makinde, Zulum, others honored by Council of Bishops

    Kalu, Sanwo-Olu, Otu, Makinde, Zulum, others honored by Council of Bishops

    Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu has been honoured with an award of selfless service to humanity by the Council of Bishops in Nigeria.

    He was honored alongside the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his Cross River State, Borno State, Oyo and Ogun State counterparts, Bassy Otu, Prof. Babagana Zulum, Seyi Makinde, Dapo Abiodun amongst others.

    The award ceremony which held at the National Ecumenical Centre in Abuja on Friday during the “National Solemn Assembly: A Day of Praise, Worship and Thanksgiving to God for Nigeria” had the President, Charismatic Bishop Conference of Nigeria and Charman National Solemm Assembly, Archbishop (Professor) Bature Cawas; the Vice charman, National Solemm Assembly/CAN Secretary Benue state, Bishop Dr. Chivir Chianson and the Secretary, National Solemm Assembly/ CAN Director, Legal & Public Affairs, Dame (Barr) Comfort Otera Chigbue as conveners.

    Giving the award to Dr. Jerry Nwohu, a security expert and political strategist who represented Kalu at the event, the body of conveners said the award was for selfless service to humanity from the charismatic Bishops in Nigeria and coalition of Christian association of Nigeria.

    They added that the recognition was a testament to Kalu’s dedication, commitment, and impactful contributions to better the lives of others, stressing that his remarkable efforts and service-oriented approach have undoubtedly made a significant difference.

    Read Also; Niger govt signs MoU with TATA to boost agriculture

    In his reaction to the award, Nwohu said that Kalu, has since his emergence as public servant garnered widespread recognition for his steadfast dedication to upholding the principles of honour, integrity, and service.

    “His unwavering commitment to the pursuit of public service has earned him yet another award, this instance originating from the revered Council of Bishops in Nigeria.

    “The eminent persona of the Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, characterised by unwavering integrity and unwavering commitment, profoundly resonates with the principles cherished by the esteemed Council of Bishops. The recent acknowledgment of his societal contributions further contributes to the plethora of accolades that underscore his commendable stewardship and altruistic dedication to the well-being of fellow individuals.

    “This esteemed recognition arrives at a momentous juncture as Deputy Speaker Kalu prepares for his highly anticipated homecoming on the 28th and 29th of December 2023. The forthcoming event is expected to witness the convergence of distinguished individuals in Nigeria, a gathering that is poised to commemorate and pay tribute to his remarkable contributions to the nation”, he said.

    Also speaking, Rear Admiral Ilesanmi Alade (rtd) exolled Kalu’s leadership virtues, describing him as a detribalized Nigerian who has embraced the whole country as his political constituency.

    He added that Kalu’s poise to serve Nigeria in his capacity as the deputy speaker of the House has been well noted.

    “The award given to Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu by the National Solemn Assembly on Friday, 1st December 2023 is a testament of his enviable political character and rising profile in nation building. I was privileged to witness the encomium showered on the Number 6 citizen of Nigeria and my sincere feeling was that Rt. Hon Deputy Speaker is emerging as a figure for national unity. I am confident that this is the beginning of many more honours to come. Congratulations to him and I wish him well”, he said.

  • Kalu calls for investment in seed industry to enhance food security

    Kalu calls for investment in seed industry to enhance food security

    The deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu has called for more investments in the seed industry to ensure food security in the country.

    Speaking at the opening of the 6th Edition of Seed Connect Africa Conference & Exhibition in Abuja, Kalu said investing in research and innovation, will empower farmers to produce more and contribute to a more food-secure and prosperous Nigeria.

    He said the seed industry holds the key to unlocking sustainable solutions and ensuring food security for all.

    The deputy speaker noted the key role the House of Representatives played in facilitating the passage of the Plant Variety Protection (PVP) Act, saying that the legislation exemplifies the parliament’s commitment to supporting policies that drive agricultural growth and enhance food security.

    Read Also: APC stakeholders sue for truce between Kalu’s, Onyejeocha’s camps

    While commending the National Agricultural Seed Council for its unwavering dedication to the growth and development of Nigeria’s seed industry, Kalu urged the participants to explore innovative solutions to address the challenges and opportunities in the seed industry.

    He said: “I am honoured to be here today to address this esteemed gathering of experts, innovators, and stakeholders in the crucial field of seed production and agriculture.

    “As we gather under the compelling theme of “Global Declaration of Food Emergency – The Role of Seed Industry in Africa,” I am filled with a sense of urgency and determination to amplify the significance of this event and the critical role of the seed industry in addressing the pressing issue of food security in our continent.

    “Nigeria, a nation blessed with abundant agricultural potential, has made significant strides in developing its seed industry. Our country boasts four distinct seed systems: farmer-saved, public-private, public-led, and community-based.

    “Each system plays a unique and complementary role in ensuring the availability of high-quality seeds to our farmers. The public sector, as the primary driver of variety development, accounts for a remarkable 87% of variety releases in the seed market.

    “This commitment to research and innovation has laid the foundation for a robust seed sector in Nigeria. Simultaneously, the private sector’s growing presence, accounting for 13% of variety releases, has infused market dynamism and competitiveness into the seed industry.

    “With over 157 registered seed companies, Nigeria has emerged as a regional leader in seed production and export. In 2019 alone, the country accounted for a staggering 60% of the total seeds marketed in West Africa. This impressive export volume highlights Nigeria’s capacity to contribute to regional food security efforts.

    “The recent enactment of the Plant Variety Protection (PVP) ACT 2021 stands as a landmark achievement in strengthening Nigeria’s seed industry. This groundbreaking legislation provides legal protection for plant breeders, fostering innovation and investment in seed development.

    “The PVP Act is poised to revolutionize the seed sector, leading to increased productivity, improved seed quality, and enhanced access for farmers.

    “As we confront the global food emergency, the seed industry holds the key to unlocking sustainable solutions and ensuring food security for all. By investing in research, innovation, and capacity building, we can empower our farmers to produce more, sustainably, and contribute to a more food-secure and prosperous Nigeria.”

    In his goodwill message, the chairman House Committee on Agricultural Production and Services, Hon. Bello Kaoje commended the organisers for their dedication, saying that it will strengthen the spirit of collective partnership towards achieving food security.

    He added that parliamentarians will continue to work in the best interest of the citizenry.

  • FG committed to responsible use of Artificial Intelligence, says Kalu

    FG committed to responsible use of Artificial Intelligence, says Kalu

    The deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, says the federal government is committed to the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve the economy.

    He, however, warned that the government will not condone any form of abuse that will affect national security.

    According to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, on Wednesday, Kalu said this when a delegation from Meta Platforms Inc. (formerly Facebook) led by the Vice President, (Africa, Middle East & Turkey), Mr. Kojo Boakye and the Director, West Africa, Ms. Adaora Ikenze, paid him a visit at the National Assembly Complex.

    Meta is an American multinational technology conglomerate that owns and operates Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and WhatsApp, among other products and services.

    While appraising Meta’s contributions to Nigeria’s digital econony, Kalu noted the company’s significant investments in Nigeria, particularly in the area of fibre optic cables, mobile partnerships, and business capacity support for entrepreneurs and SMEs.

    He said the news of the 45,000km Africa subsea cable landing in Lagos and Akwa Ibom states is particularly exciting, given its potential socio-economic impact on the country.

    He said: “I heard you mention things about AI. You are interested in AI when you mentioned the various areas where META is involved beyond Facebook and IG. Then I saw you’re interested in AI and I’m happy that the government of President Bola Tinubu chose technology as one of the areas that will help this administration to advance towards achieving its set national objectives.

    “So, we understand the relevance of AI, Artificial Intelligence. And we also appreciate your interest in our national artificial intelligence strategy. As a government, we are committed to fostering innovation and responsible use of AI and emphasis on the responsible use of AI.

    “It could be abused as well. We value industry input. We value collaborations. And we look forward to engaging with stakeholders like you to ensure that our own AI strategy aligns fully with global best practices, and serves the interests of both technology companies and the public, especially our own citizens. And what they tend to achieve, it’s not all AI that would be healthy for our economy but there are many of them when they are adopted and adapted to suit our unique needs that will contribute to our national development and for those ones will be expanded to embrace them.”

    Speaking about the proposed digital rights bills, Kalu sought the collaboration of Meta in the protection of digital rights.

    He stated: “In our mind, we are intentional about content moderation, and digital rights bills. Regarding the proposed content, moderation, and digital rights bills, we understand the importance of a balance and fair regulatory framework. I want to re-emphasize that.

    “And I also want to say that our legislative process is open to constructive dialogue, embrace this one that we’re bringing up and other ones that we’re going to showcase as well. And we welcome your insights and recommendations in the course of that engagement, it will not just be a presentation that will not be a working document for us to come up with another amendment to our law or repeal.

    “And then reenactments of our laws, we will take your opinion seriously. I’m sure if you participate if you accept our hand of partnership to engage more, together, we can work towards a bill that will ensure digital rights are protected”.

    Read Also: Kalu congratulates Uzodimma on re-election

    Kalu also hinted that by January next year, his office will be convening a sectoral policy dialogue in collaboration with advocacy for Civic Engagement Center focusing on information technology and innovation.

    While seeking the support of Meta, the Deputy Speaker added that the regulatory laws espoused by the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria Act (ARCON, 2022) are not meant to punish anybody but to clean up the space to avoid abuse.

    Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Boakye informed the Deputy Speaker of their intention to initiate some digital expansion in Africa, saying it will benefit Nigeria as a country.

  • APC chief, others hails Kalu’s appeal court victory

    APC chief, others hails Kalu’s appeal court victory

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairman in Ebonyi, Chief Stanley Okoro-Emegha, has urged Sen. Orji Kalu (APC – Abia North) to use his appeal court victory to consolidate on his gains at the Senate.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Court of Appeal, Lagos division, has affirmed Kalu as the duly elected senator representing Abia North.

    The court upheld the judgment of national and state assembly petition tribunal which dismissed the petitions against Kalu as lacking in merit.

    Okoro-Emegha told NAN on Sunday in Abakaliki that the affirmation testified the acceptance of Kalu by his people.

    “I hail from Ebonyi and Kalu from Abia but I submit that the appeal court justified the trust reposed in the judiciary by Nigerians.

    “The Abia North constituents massively voted for Kalu, Chief Whip of the ninth Senate and it had never been in doubt,” he said.

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    The APC chairman, who was an aide to Kalu as Abia governor, urged him to use the opportunity to consolidate on his gains at the Senate.

    Chief Louis Elekwa, a businessman, also hailed the ruling, noting that his community also benefited from Kalu’s effective representation of his people.

    “My community borders some areas in Kalu’s senatorial district and enjoy his massive interventions in roads and agricultural endeavours,” he said.

    Mrs Juliet Nmereole, a teacher, urged Kalu not to be discouraged by his non-election as a principal officer of the 10th Senate.

    “He should instead be mindful that his people are solidly behind him and offer effective representation to them and the entire country” she said.

  • Deputy Speaker Kalu applauds Appeal Court for upholding his election

    Deputy Speaker Kalu applauds Appeal Court for upholding his election

    Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, yesterday applauded the Court of Appeal for dismissing the petition of the Action Alliance (AA) challenging his election as the member representing Bende Federal Constituency of Abia State.

    The National Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal sitting in Umuahia had in August struck out the petition of AA because the party’s candidate in the election, Ifeanyi Chukwuka Igbokwe told the panel that he did not file any suit against Kalu’s election and subsequently alleged impersonation.

    He later petitioned the Police and the Department of the State Service (DSS), calling for the arrest and prosecution of his impersonators.

    While the security agencies were yet to arrest the impersonators, the party filed an appeal on the matter against the decision of the tribunal.

    Speaking at a news conference, Igbokwe insisted he never filed an appeal against Kalu, urging the Police to go after his impersonators.

    Ruling on the appeal filed by the party, the appellate court struck out the matter, describing it as a mere academic exercise.

    Read Also: Abbas, Kalu decry increasing sexual violence against children, out-of-school children

    Upholding the Deputy Speaker’s election, the court further noted that the time limit provided by Section 285 of the Constitution on the appeal had elapsed, stating that it lacks the jurisdiction to entertain the matter.

    Reacting to the judgement, Kalu in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Mr. Levinus Nwabughiogu, expressed gratitude to the judiciary for displaying the highest form of legal ingenuity in determining the case.

    He also reiterated his commitment and dedication to duty, adding that “the judgement which has now marked the end to the legal voyages in the aftermath of the 2023 general had buoyed him up for better service to his Bende Federal Constituency and Nigeria in general.”

  • Reps working on bills, policies to promote SMEs, says deputy speaker Kalu

    Reps working on bills, policies to promote SMEs, says deputy speaker Kalu

    The deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu has said that the parliament was working on a number of bills that will effectively promote Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria.

    He said under President Bola Tinubu, Nigeria has already witnessed a series of transformative reforms aimed at repositioning the nation on the path to sustained economic growth.

    Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu said the deputy speaker spoke at the ground breaking ceremony of the Abia Innovation Industrial Park in Owaza, Ukwa West Local Government Area of the State. 

    Initiated by the Abia State Government under the leadership of Otti, the project is expected to foster economic growth, create jobs, and position Abia State as a hub for innovation and industrialization when completed.

    Read Also: Kalu seeks China’s collaboration to end xenophobic attack 

    Kalu said: “The 10th National Assembly, under the dynamic leadership of the Speaker and myself as Deputy Speaker, has been working tirelessly to complement these reforms with legislative actions that support economic growth and development. 

    “We understand that a conducive legislative framework is critical to the success of initiatives such as the Abia Innovation Industrial Park.

    “Our legislative agenda is centered around creating an environment that encourages innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development.

    “We are actively working on bills and policies aimed at promoting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), enhancing ease of doing business, and attracting both local and foreign investments.

    “It is not just the Abia State Government that is at work here. We are fortunate to find ourselves in an era of remarkable leadership at the federal level. 

    “Under the Bola Ahmed Tinubu presidency, Nigeria has witnessed a series of transformative reforms aimed at repositioning our nation on the path to sustained economic growth”.

    Kalu said that the industrialization of Abia State is not only a dream but also a well-thought-out strategy, stressing that it aligns perfectly with the broader national goals of achieving self-sufficiency and economic prosperity.

    He said: “This groundbreaking ceremony not only mark the beginning of a new industrial park but also symbolize our unwavering commitment to honoring the giants of our past while forging ahead into a brighter future.

    “This is the beginning of a new era. An era where innovation, industry, and opportunity will flourish. An era where the dreams and aspirations of our youth and entrepreneurs will find a home, and where Abia State will shine

    as a beacon of progress in our great nation.”