Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has expressed strong support for the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing them as necessary measures to address Nigeria’s pressing economic challenges.
During a New Year’s visit to Chief Daniel Eke, a former governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State, Kalu emphasised the need to update Nigeria’s outdated laws.
He noted that some of these laws have existed for over a century and no longer align with global economic realities.
In a statement issued to newsmen yesterday in Abuja by his media aide, Kenneth Udeh, Kalu commended Tinubu’s boldness in proposing the Tax Reform Bills, which he described as progressive.
However, he expressed concern over the lack of adequate public sensitisation and consultation on the reform bills.
“The Tax Reform Bill is not bad; it is progressive. But Nigerians were not sufficiently educated about its benefits,” he said. “To grow as a nation, we must embrace competition, just like China. Each of the 36 states must compete in productivity to harness their resources and drive development.”
Drawing inspiration from China’s economic model, Kalu underscored the importance of fostering competitive practices among Nigeria’s states to stimulate growth.
He criticised the nation’s dependence on federal allocations and stressed the need for resilience and innovation at the state level.
The Abia-North Senator also acknowledged the economic hardships Nigerians are enduring due to the reforms but urged patience, expressing optimism that the policies would yield significant positive outcomes by 2025.
“President Tinubu is fully aware of the challenges Nigerians are facing, and I am confident that there is light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.
Reaffirming his commitment to his legislative duties, Kalu pledged to continue delivering economic and infrastructural benefits to his constituents.
Chief Daniel Eke praised Kalu’s legislative achievements and focus on impactful development projects, contrasting them with the superficial empowerment initiatives offered by some other legislators.
“Senator Kalu is not just doing legislative work; he has also established processing companies that will employ our people, which is what matters most,” he said.
Kalu’s comments and call for broader consultations on key reforms highlight his dedication to fostering national and local development through progressive and inclusive policies.
