Ben Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, has urged President Bola Tinubu to consider establishing a seaport in the South East region to boost commercial activities there.
Speaking at a reception held at Enyimba International Stadium in Abia State, which was organized to honor President Tinubu following his inauguration of several projects in the area, Kalu emphasized the importance of such infrastructure for the region.
“We appreciate the efforts you have made in our state through the governor and across the Southeast,” Kalu remarked. “However, it is crucial that the South East gains a new seaport, as the people here are predominantly traders who would greatly benefit from improved access to maritime trade.”
He also expressed deep concern over the recent demolition of properties belonging to Igbo residents in Lagos, describing the situation as heartbreaking.
Kalu appealed to President Tinubu to engage with the Lagos State governor to allow affected Igbo homeowners, whose properties remain intact, to regularize their ownership documents. He stressed that during these challenging times, destruction only compounds the suffering of those affected and called for peaceful and constructive solutions instead of property demolition.
Highlighting the essence of collaborative governance, Kalu noted that effective leadership requires a strong partnership between state and federal governments, working hand in hand for the benefit of the people.
Although a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Kalu affirmed his commitment to supporting the state’s governor, Alex Otti, to ensure the continued progress of Abia State. “I have accompanied him throughout the day, inspecting various projects, and I commend the governor for his achievements,” he said.
Yet, Kalu urged for even greater efforts, likening his request to that of Oliver Twist asking for more, emphasizing the need for sustained development.
He concluded by thanking President Tinubu for his contributions to Abia’s development and encouraged the state’s Information Commissioner and media outlets to give the president due recognition. Kalu believes that such acknowledgment will motivate further investments and support for both Abia State and the wider South East region, which Tinubu has shown considerable goodwill towards.