Orji Uzor Kalu Biography, Early Life, Personal Life, Career, Family, Parents, Net Worth & More
Orji Uzor Kalu, a Nigerian politician and businessperson, was born on 21 April 1960 in Abia State, Nigeria. He is a member of the All Progressives Congress.
Kalu holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Abia State University. He has held various political positions, including serving as the Senate Majority Whip from 2 July 2019 to 11 June 2023.
Before that, he represented Abia North as a senator, starting on 11 June 2019, succeeding Mao Ohuabunwa. He also served as the 7th Governor of Abia State from 29 May 1999 to 29 May 2007, following Anthony Obi and succeeded by Theodore Orji.
Orji Uzor Kalu Biography
Orji Uzor Kalu, born in 1960, is a well-known figure in Nigeria, celebrated for his significant contributions to both politics and business. He is a prominent Nigerian politician and businessman.
Age and Date of Birth
Orji Uzor Kalu was born on the 21st of April in the year 1960, making him a prominent figure in Nigerian politics and business. He is currently at the age of 63 years old, this year 2023.
State of Origin and Tribe
Kalu hails from Nigeria and belongs to the Igbo tribe, adding cultural richness to his identity.
Early Life and Education
Orji Uzor Kalu’s journey began with humble beginnings. He started with just $35, borrowed from his mother, and engaged in trading palm oil. His early life and education shaped his path to success.
Personal Life
Let’s explore the personal side of Orji Uzor Kalu, including his family, relationships, and achievements.
Wife (spouse) and Children (kids)
In December 1989, Kalu married Ms. Ifeoma Ada Menakaya in his hometown of Igbere, Abia State. The couple has four children: Neya Uzor Kalu, Michael Uzor Kalu, Olivia Uzor Kalu, and Nicole Uzor Kalu.
Parents: Father and Mother
Orji Uzor Kalu’s family played a significant role in his early life and career. He was born to Mr. Johnson Uzor Nesiegbe Kalu and Mrs. Eunice Kalu.
Siblings: Brother and Sister
While not much information is available about Orji Uzor Kalu’s siblings, we can assume that his upbringing was influenced by his family.
Early Career
Kalu’s journey from a young trader with limited resources to a prominent businessman is truly remarkable. He ventured into palm oil and furniture trading, which laid the foundation for his future endeavors.
Professional Career
Orji Uzor Kalu serves as the chairman of SLOK Holding, a prominent West African conglomerate involved in various sectors such as shipping, banking, oil trading, manufacturing, and media.
He also holds the position of chairman for the Daily Sun and New Telegraph newspapers in Nigeria. Kalu’s wealth has grown significantly through a combination of his political involvement and various business ventures.
He is a respected member of several professional organizations, including the Institute of Directors and others.
In terms of his political career, Kalu first ventured into politics during his time at the University of Maiduguri, where he played a pivotal role as one of the spokespersons for the Student Union Government.
He actively voiced concerns against unfavorable policies and leadership at Abia State University, which ultimately led to his suspension. He served as the governor of Abia State from May 29, 1999, to May 29, 2007.
Later, Kalu participated in the 2019 Nigerian general election, representing Abia North in the Senate as a candidate for the All Progressives Congress. He secured victory by defeating the incumbent senator, Mao Ohuabunwa, with a margin of over 10,000 votes.
From July 2, 2019, to June 11, 2023, he held the position of Senate Majority Whip. Currently, Orji Uzor Kalu is a serving member of the Senate in the Federal Republic of Nigeria, representing the Abia North Senatorial District.
He has expressed his intention to run for the presidency in the upcoming 2023 elections and has advocated for the presidency to be zoned to the South-East.
Controversies
Orji Uzor Kalu has faced various controversies throughout his career. Here are some of the notable ones:
Corruption Charges
During his time as the governor of Abia State, Orji Uzor Kalu was charged with corruption. In December 2019, he received a 12-year prison sentence for fraud and money laundering.
However, in May 2020, the Supreme Court overturned his conviction and ordered a retrial. In October 2021, he was granted bail on medical grounds.
Senate Presidency
In 2019, there were rumors that Orji Uzor Kalu was considering a run for the position of Senate President, but he did not receive the endorsement for the role.
Disqualification from Senate
In October 2023, the Labour Party senatorial candidate for Abia North, Nnamdi Iro Orji, petitioned the Appeal Court to disqualify Orji Uzor Kalu from the Senate due to his admission of a fraud conviction.
Suspension from University
Orji Uzor Kalu faced suspension from the University of Maiduguri for his involvement in a school riot.
Orji Uzor Kalu’s Net Worth
Orji Uzor Kalu’s contributions to various industries have made him one of the wealthiest individuals in Nigeria and Africa. His estimated net worth ranges from $1.3 billion to $3.8 billion.
Orji Uzor Kalu’s Background Information
| Full Name | Orji Uzor Kalu |
| Date of Birth | April 21, 1960 |
| Age (as of 2023) | 63 years old |
| State of Origin | Abia State, Nigeria |
| Religion | Christian |
| Parents | Father: Mr. Johnson Uzor Nesiegbe Kalu Mother: Mrs. Eunice Kalu |
| Tribe | Igbo |
| Political Party | All Progressives Congress (APC) |
| Spouse | Ms. Ifeoma Ada Menakaya (m. 1989) |
| Children | Neya Uzor Kalu Michael Uzor Kalu Olivia Uzor Kalu Nicole Uzor Kalu |
| Education | Abia State University Christ the King School Government College Umuahia University of Maiduguri |
| Occupation | Politician and Entrepreneur |
| Net Worth (as of 2023) | $1.3 billion – $3.8 billion USD |
In Conclusion
In this comprehensive biography, we have uncovered the life of Orji Uzor Kalu, a distinguished Nigerian politician and businessman.
From his early struggles to his remarkable career achievements, Kalu’s journey is a source of inspiration for many.
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