Orji Uzor Kalu

**Orji Uzor Kalu: Nigerian Politician and Business Executive** Orji Uzor Kalu (born April 21, 1960) is a prominent Nigerian politician, businessman, and philanthropist. He currently serves as a Senator representing Abia North Senatorial District in the Nigerian Senate. Kalu is widely known for his tenure as the Governor of Abia State, where he served for two consecutive terms from May 29, 1999, to May 29, 2007. **Early Life and Education** Born in Abia State, Nigeria, Kalu began his entrepreneurial career at a young age. He attended various schools in Nigeria and later studied at the University of Maiduguri, where he was involved in student activism. His early life was marked by a strong drive for business and public service, which he balanced with his academic pursuits. **Career Progression and Business Ventures** Kalu is the chairman of SLOK Holding, a Nigerian conglomerate with interests in shipping, banking, media, and oil trading. He also serves as the founder and chairman of two major Nigerian newspaper publications: *The Daily Sun* and *New Telegraph*. Prior to his gubernatorial and senatorial roles, Kalu held positions as the chairman of the Borno Water Board and the chairman of the Cooperative and Commerce Bank Limited. **Major Achievements and Political Career** Kalu's political career is most notable for his period as the democratically elected Governor of Abia State. During his eight years in office (1999–2007), he focused on developing infrastructure and promoting education within the state. After leaving the governorship, Kalu remained active in politics and contested for the Nigerian Senate. He was successfully elected as the Senator representing Abia North Senatorial District. **Current Status** Orji Uzor Kalu continues to serve as a high-ranking member of the Nigerian Senate. In addition to his legislative duties, he remains the chairman of his major business enterprises, maintaining a significant influence in both the private sector and Nigerian national politics.