The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ben Kalu, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to establish a sea port in the South East region to boost trade and economic activities. Kalu made this request during a reception held in honor of the president at the Enyimba International Stadium in Abia, following the inauguration of several projects in the state.
Kalu expressed gratitude to the president for his support in implementing various projects in Abia, undertaken in collaboration with the state governor. He emphasized the need for a sea port in the South East, highlighting the region’s strong trading tradition and the potential economic benefits of such an infrastructure project. The deputy speaker noted that the majority of South Easterners are traders and require a convenient and efficient means of importing and exporting goods.
In addition to the sea port request, Kalu also brought up the issue of demolished houses and offices belonging to Igbo people in Lagos. He urged the president to intervene to prevent further destruction and to facilitate the regularization of documents for those whose properties remain intact. Kalu argued that demolition at a time of economic hardship exacerbates the suffering of the affected individuals and families.
The deputy speaker emphasized the importance of cooperation between the federal government and state governments, stressing that partnership is essential for effective governance. As a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Kalu pledged to support the governor of Abia, Alex Otti, in his efforts to develop the state. He commended the governor for the projects implemented so far and encouraged him to continue working towards the state’s prosperity.
Kalu thanked President Tinubu for his assistance in Abia’s projects and encouraged the state’s information commissioner and media outlets to acknowledge the president’s contributions. By recognizing the president’s support, Kalu hopes to encourage further investment in the state and the South East region, which has received significant attention from the president. The establishment of a sea port in the South East could have a significant impact on the region’s economy, and Kalu’s request may mark the beginning of a new phase in the region’s development.