By Onu Uche At a time when many Nigerians are tired and disappointed with leadership, it is important to remember a period when governance actually worked. In Abia State, that period was during the time of Orji Uzor Kalu as governor from 1999 to 2007.
Leadership should be judged by results, not talk. By this measure, the Kalu years stand out. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, Abia State had the second-lowest poverty rate in Nigeria in 2003–2004. The rate was 40.9 percent. This was lower than Lagos, Rivers State, and even the Federal Capital Territory. Only Oyo State performed better.
This did not happen by luck. It happened because there were clear policies and real action. Kalu focused on agriculture, roads, health, education, and people’s welfare. He believed government should touch the lives of ordinary people, not just stay in offices.
In agriculture, he did more than make speeches. Every local government was directed to plant 10 hectares of cassava. This helped farmers and increased food production. He also introduced the Tenera oil palm, which improved palm oil output and helped local producers. His government even baked bread from cassava flour to show that local crops could replace imported wheat. This was practical leadership.
In health, hospitals and health centres were built and repaired across the state. Primary healthcare was expanded, especially in rural areas. Free medical outreach programmes were common. Many people in villages received medical care for the first time under his administration.
Education was also taken seriously. Schools were built and renovated. Teachers were paid regularly, even when other states were owing salaries. Learning materials were supplied. Scholarship programmes were introduced. Technical and vocational education was encouraged to prepare young people for work and self-reliance.
Road construction was one of the most visible achievements of that period. Roads were built and repaired in Aba, Umuahia, Ohafia, Bende, and many other areas. These roads opened rural communities, helped farmers move goods, and made transport easier. Many of these roads are still in use today.
Kalu also invested in rural electricity, water projects, and public buildings. These projects improved daily life for many communities and supported local businesses.
Sports was another area where Abia gained national and international attention. Under Kalu, Enyimba Football Club became a continental power. The club won the CAF Champions League in 2003 and 2004. Facilities were improved, players were supported, and Abia became a centre of football pride. Enyimba’s success united young people and brought honour to the state.
Orji Uzor Kalu was not a perfect leader, but his impact was clear. He was accessible. He listened. He took decisions. Most importantly, he delivered results that people could see and feel.
Today, many Abians face hardship and declining public services. Looking back at the Kalu years reminds us that government can work when leaders are serious and people-focused.
As we think about the future, one lesson is clear: leadership must go beyond promises. It must change lives.
Orji Uzor Kalu did not just hold office. He left a record. That record should remind today’s leaders of what is possible when leadership is built on service to the people.
Onu Uche writes from Ndi Ibe Ohafia, Abia State, Nigeria.
