Abia-North Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has expressed confidence that the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu will yield positive results despite current challenges.
Speaking during a New Year’s visit to Chief Daniel Eke, a former Abia governorship aspirant of the APC, Kalu emphasized the necessity of revamping outdated laws, some of which are over a century old, to align with modern global economic demands.
While commending the Tax Reform Bills, Kalu described them as progressive but criticized their implementation, noting that Nigerians were not adequately educated about their benefits before introduction.
Tinubu is a courageous leader who has taken bold steps to reform the economy, Kalu said. We must allow him the chance to implement these changes. However, there’s a need for better orientation and inclusion of all regions to understand and support the reforms.
Referencing China’s economic model, Kalu advocated for competition among Nigeria’s 36 states, asserting that every state has significant resources to drive development. For Nigeria to grow like China, each state must compete in productivity. Sharing free money in Abuja cannot continue, he stated.
Acknowledging the hardships faced by Nigerians due to the reforms, Kalu assured that the suffering is temporary, expressing optimism for a brighter 2025. President Tinubu is aware of the pain, but there is light at the end of the tunnel. Nigerians must be patient as we go through this process, he urged.
In response, Chief Eke commended Kalu for his impactful representation in the Senate and commitment to empowering his constituents. He lauded Kalu’s focus on infrastructure, employment, and industrial development over short-term empowerment programs.
Kalu reaffirmed his dedication to delivering economic and infrastructural dividends, emphasizing his commitment to serving the people of Abia-North and Nigeria at large. My duty as Senator is sacred, and I will not compromise. I remain committed to enhancing the lives of my constituents, he concluded.