Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, who represents Abia North Senatorial District and currently chairs the Senate Committee on Privatisation, has openly declared that his long-nurtured presidential ambition will remain on hold until President Bola Ahmed Tinubu completes a potential second term in office.
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday during a media parley in his hometown of Igbere, located in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, the former Abia State Governor affirmed his loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its decision to back President Tinubu for re-election.
“I’m a loyal member of the APC, and our great party has officially endorsed President Tinubu for another term. Even though I may have presidential aspirations, I won’t go against the party. The party is supreme,” Kalu stated firmly.
Presidential Dream ‘In the Cooler’ Until 2031
Senator Kalu acknowledged that while he still harbors interest in leading the country someday, he would not act in contradiction to the decision of the party. According to him, now is not the time to pursue such ambition.
“My presidential ambition is currently in the cooler. At God’s appointed time—if I still have the energy and resources—I may give it another shot after 2031 when President Tinubu would have completed his second term,” he added.
Plans to Recontest Abia North Senatorial Seat in 2027
In addition to addressing his future presidential ambitions, Kalu confirmed his intention to seek re-election to the Senate in 2027—provided the constituents of Abia North deem him worthy.
“If my people still believe in me and find me worthy of another term, I will recontest in 2027. I have delivered over 187 roads in the past six years and facilitated the construction of more than 123 primary schools across the district,” he said, listing his achievements.
Kalu Applauds Tinubu’s Performance
Kalu, a former Senate Chief Whip, commended President Tinubu’s administration for what he described as commendable strides within the first two years of governance. He said he had worked closely with the President and had witnessed first-hand the efforts being made to reposition the country.
“President Tinubu has done very well within just two years. If we give him the opportunity to finish his term and secure another one, I believe Nigeria will witness even more substantial economic reforms and progress,” Kalu said optimistically.
Defending Tinubu’s Early Endorsement
Addressing critics who argued that endorsing Tinubu for a second term midway into his first was premature, Kalu disagreed. He stressed that encouraging the President early on is vital for continuity and motivation.
“There’s nothing hasty about it. We are already at the midpoint of the administration. The party did the right thing by backing the President early—it’s a signal of support and trust. Every sitting President reserves the right to seek re-election, and we will stand behind him 100%,” he concluded.
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