Kalu Says Economic Recovery Must Reach Nigerians Beyond Statistics
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has called for greater attention to the everyday economic realities facing Nigerians, arguing that improvements reflected in official economic indicators have yet to translate into meaningful relief for many households and businesses.
The former governor of Abia State made the remarks on Monday in Sokoto after commissioning a road project delivered by Governor Ahmed Aliyu in the Arkilla New Layout area.
Speaking against the backdrop of ongoing debates around the impact of President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, Kalu acknowledged signs of progress in broader economic performance but maintained that ordinary citizens continue to face pressure from rising living costs and persistent insecurity.
According to the senator, he has already raised these concerns directly with the president, pointing to what he described as a disconnect between encouraging macroeconomic data and conditions experienced at the grassroots level.
“Things might look difficult today. Yes, as you can see, I am an industrialist. The macroeconomy is performing well, but the microeconomy is not. I told the President this,” Kalu said.
He argued that long-term economic expansion depends heavily on improvements in national security, stressing that businesses, investment and prosperity cannot thrive in unstable environments.
Kalu maintained that while reforms aimed at strengthening the economy may produce broader indicators of progress, public judgment will continue to depend on whether citizens begin to experience tangible improvements in income, business activity and quality of life.
He called for stronger efforts to create opportunities that directly benefit communities and support wider economic participation.
Despite his concerns, the senator commended the Tinubu administration for pursuing structural reforms and expressed optimism that sustained efforts, especially in security, could improve outcomes over time.
Kalu also used the occasion to appeal for national unity, describing cohesion and stability as essential ingredients for economic growth.
“Nigeria is one, and I will continue to pray and plead for the unity of this country until I die,” he said.
He further praised Governor Ahmed Aliyu for infrastructure development efforts in Sokoto and appreciated the invitation to commission the completed road project.
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