DEPUTY GOVERNOR EMETU CELEBRATES DR. CHUKWU KALU AT BIRTHDAY, COMMENDS EDUCATION SUPPORT INITIATIVE IN OHAFIA LGA

The Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE, has applauded the outstanding commitment of Builder Dr. Chukwu Kalu to education and community development during his birthday celebration and the unveiling of the 2026 beneficiaries of the Late Chief Kalu Ebei Education Support Fund, held at Amurie Nkporo in Ohafia Local Government Area.

Speaking at the event, the Deputy Governor described the occasion as both a celebration of life and a celebration of impact, noting that Dr. Kalu’s decision to mark his birthday by uplifting others reflects a rare spirit of selflessness and service to humanity.

“This is not just a birthday celebration; it is a celebration of impact, compassion, and a deep commitment to the future of our young people,” Engr. Emetu stated.

He commended the Education Support Fund, which provides scholarships to undergraduates in tertiary institutions across Nigeria, while also supporting pupils and students in basic and secondary schools with educational materials. He noted that the initiative aligns with the state government’s vision of prioritizing education as a key driver of sustainable development.

Addressing the beneficiaries, the Deputy Governor congratulated them and urged them to remain focused, disciplined, and committed to their academic pursuits. He emphasized the need for students to shun all forms of social vices, including cultism, violence, and drug abuse, stressing that excellence in character and learning remains the pathway to success.

“You must justify this opportunity through hard work, discipline, and excellence. Shun all forms of social vices and remain focused on your studies so you can graduate successfully and make your families and Abia State proud,” he advised.

He further encouraged the students to maintain strong academic performance and uphold good character at all times, describing the scholarship as a reward for seriousness and dedication.

The Deputy Governor also used the opportunity to call on eligible citizens to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), reiterating that participation in the electoral process is vital to sustaining good governance and consolidating the gains of the present administration in Abia State.

“Your vote is your voice. Do not wait for others to decide your future—go and get your PVC and support good governance that will continue to move Abia forward,” he added.

In his remarks, the Mayor of Ohafia LGA, Chief Eleanya Ojuu Kalu, praised the leadership of the state government, noting that its performance has inspired individuals to contribute meaningfully to community development. He described Dr. Kalu’s initiative as a worthy example of how private citizens can complement government efforts.

Also speaking, former Mayor of Ohafia LGA, Chief Dr. David Ogba Onuoha (Bourdex), MFR, OON, expressed deep appreciation to Dr. Chukwu Kalu for his continued investment in education and humanity. He noted that empowering young people through education remains one of the most enduring legacies anyone can leave behind.

Earlier in his address, Builder Dr. Chukwu Kalu stated that the Late Chief Kalu Ebei Education Support Fund was established as a means of giving back to society and supporting the next generation. He disclosed that the initiative, now in its fourth year, has already produced graduates, with many more currently benefiting.

He further revealed that the 2026 edition of the scholarship scheme recorded over 300 applications, highlighting the growing need for support in the education sector. In addition to scholarships, he noted that the distribution of food items to widows and educational materials to schools forms part of the foundation’s broader commitment to social welfare.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Osiri Dike Ejieke, a Library and Information Science undergraduate of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, expressed gratitude to Builder Dr. Chukwu Kalu for awarding them the scholarship, noting that it would help alleviate the financial burden on their parents. He pledged, on behalf of the recipients, to take their studies seriously and justify the confidence reposed in them.

The event attracted a large gathering of leaders, including the Deputy Mayor of Ohafia LGA, Hon. Eme Iro; former National Assembly Member, Rt. Hon. Arua Arunsi; the Eze Aja of Nkporo Ancient Kingdom, HRM Eze Dr. Jeff Iro Kalu Otisi; other traditional rulers, stakeholders, students, and beneficiaries. It featured the formal unveiling of scholarship recipients, distribution of educational materials to schools, and food items to widows, all in celebration of Dr. Kalu’s birthday and his enduring impact on society.

Sir Cyril Chukwudi Eke Mba
Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Abia State
April 1, 2026.