The leader of Arewa Summit International, Dr. Bashir Lamido, has described Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North Senatorial District, as one of the few “reliable and trustworthy” senators Nigeria has produced, citing what he described as the lawmaker’s consistency, integrity and contentment in public service.
Lamido made the remarks in Abuja on Thursday while addressing a civil society organisation at a conference held to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, according to a statement reported on Friday, October 2, 2026.
He said Kalu had remained consistent in his public life over the years, maintaining what he described as a reputation for loyalty and commitment to public service.
Lamido particularly commended the former Abia State governor for his continued support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his advocacy for the President’s 2027 re-election bid.
According to him, Kalu had moved beyond political declarations by taking the message of the Tinubu administration to the grassroots, engaging directly with Nigerians and explaining what he considers the achievements and policies of the administration.
“What I admire most about senator Orji Kalu is that he does a lot without making noise about it. He is out there speaking directly to the people, explaining the policies and achievements of the President and encouraging Nigerians to look at the issues objectively,” Lamido said.
The Arewa Summit International leader said he had been following Kalu’s recent activities in Abia North, particularly his decision to spend more time in the district and engage directly with constituents.
Lamido described such engagement as “real politics”, saying politicians should return to the people, present their records and seek their support rather than rely on electoral manipulation.
He contrasted this approach with what he described as the reliance by some politicians on electoral irregularities instead of sustained engagement with their constituents.
According to Lamido, Kalu’s activities across Abia North demonstrate what he described as a willingness to return to the grassroots and directly interact with the people he represents.
He further praised Kalu for his consistent advocacy for Tinubu, saying the senator had continued to defend the administration’s policies while explaining them to Nigerians.
Lamido said Kalu’s support for the President was significant because, in his assessment, it was being demonstrated through direct grassroots engagement rather than public declarations alone.
The Northern think-tank leader also described Kalu as a national political figure whose activities and relationships extend beyond Abia North and the South-East.
He urged Nigerians to pay attention to politicians who, in his view, combine public advocacy with direct engagement with their constituents.
Lamido’s comments come amid increased political activity ahead of the 2027 general elections, with Kalu maintaining a visible role in Abia politics and in national discussions surrounding Tinubu’s re-election bid. Previous reports have also quoted Lamido praising Kalu’s political support for Tinubu and describing him as one of the President’s reliable allies.
Kalu has publicly expressed support for Tinubu, while Lamido has previously cited the senator among prominent political figures backing the President ahead of the 2027 election.
