Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has made it clear that he is putting his presidential aspirations on pause until President Bola Ahmed Tinubu completes a potential second term in office.
Kalu, who represents Abia North Senatorial District and chairs the Senate Committee on Privatisation, told reporters in Igbere, Abia State, that the interest of the All Progressives Congress (APC) comes first.
He stressed that no personal ambition should override the collective decision of the party, which has already thrown its weight behind Tinubu for re-election.
“I’m a loyal party man,” he said. “Even if I have an eye on the presidency, I can’t go against the APC. The party has backed President Tinubu for another term, and I respect that. The party is supreme.”
While acknowledging that he still has future ambitions for Nigeria’s top office, Kalu said such plans are on ice — at least until 2031. “At the right time, if I still have the strength and the means, I may consider it. Nothing stops me from contesting when President Tinubu completes his tenure,” he added.
Looking ahead to the next general election cycle, the former governor of Abia State revealed his intention to run for the Senate again in 2027 — but only if his constituents want him back. He cited his track record in office as evidence of his commitment to development.
“In six years, I’ve facilitated the construction of more than 187 roads and over 120 schools across the district. If the people still believe in me, I’ll be glad to continue serving,” he said.
Speaking on Tinubu’s leadership, Kalu expressed confidence in the president’s performance so far. “In just two years, he has done remarkably well. If given the chance to complete this term and serve another, I believe Nigerians will see even more progress, especially in the economy,” he noted.
He dismissed suggestions that the APC’s early endorsement of Tinubu was rushed or unnecessary. According to him, the timing is right. “We’re halfway into the term. It’s important to motivate the president to do more. Every sitting president has the right to recontest, and we will stand by him fully,” he said.