By Shirley Ikonne

Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu is a rare breed of Nigerian who has distinguished himself in selfless service to humanity.
A thorough and honest personality with a deep sense of brotherhood and respect for humanitarian values, Dr. Kalu has served society in various positions relentlessly with his time treasures, and talent.

His ability to persevere and tolerate others accounts for how he achieves whatever he desires. He enjoys being of service to others. As an observant man of God who is highly sensitive to how others feel, he sees things below the surface of a situation and he puts this talent to wise and constructive use.

No doubt the former Abia State Governor Dr. Orji Uzor, Kalu was one of the best performing Governors of the 1999-2003 tenure. In terms of developmental projects Orji Uzor
ranked amongst the best out of the thirty – six State Governors. It was an achievement conditioned by –I believe- a deep seated desire to make an impact on the lives of his people. Some however believe that it was a businessman-politician’s market gambit an assertion which Orji Uzor Kalu’s present stance seems to be underlining.

In Orji Uzor Kalu’s Abia State, people began to feel the impact of Government in a more integrated form. Tarred roads emerged over night, Electrification projects were extend ed to many rural areas, Bore-holes were sunk and indeed poverty alleviation got a little boost especially from Dr Orji Uzor Kalu Transport Loan Scheme.

Dr Kalu is a Role Model, an exceptional motivator and an inspiring National Leader who leads by example. Being a leader is not just being at the helm of affairs, but about getting to know the people you lead, listening to them and caring for them. His deep sense of vision and direction, responsibility and absolute control, and the way he discharges his duties without fear or favour makes him an excellent motivator.

His good nature, strong intuitive sense and his willingness to do more than his share in order to achieve cooperation with others has been largely responsible for his ability to take the ups and downs of life with philosophic calm, at home and at work.

He is indeed an icon. And GREAT shall he remain.

Kudos need to be
given to the young governor for his magnificent strides in Nigerian politics.

Dr Kalu is the answer to our nation’s dream and provider of the pillar of sustenance of our country’s vision, purpose and future. He is one of the few patriots of this great country who remain steadfast in the path of righteousness. God in his infinite mercies has counted you worthy of His blessings as one of the stars of our time.
Dr Kalu, we are proud of you and delighted to associate with your sparkling qualities, tremendous achievements and attainment in life.

You shall remain the man with plenty of energy and drive, an icon, the man with plenty of confidence and aplomb, the vibrant no nonsense political leader with a youthful and optimistic approach to life.

As you celebrate 58, and the whole world is celebrating you, may you live very long, in good health to enjoy the fruits of your labour. Amen.
Congratulations and Happy Birthday to you.

-Princess Shirley Ikonne writes from Abuja.