Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has said that his political future beyond 2027 will be determined by the people of his constituency, emphasizing that his focus remains on service delivery and grassroots development.
Click Here to Join Our Whatsapp Channel
Kalu, who represents Bende Federal Constituency of Abia State, made this known during an appearance on TVC’s Know Your Representatives anchored by Mariah Olasehinde on Saturday.
“I want history to record that I served passionately and gave my best. The people are my employers, and they will decide my future,” Kalu stated.
He reaffirmed his commitment to rural development and disclosed ongoing efforts to push for improved constituency project funding to help lawmakers execute more impactful community projects.
“Growing up in Bende exposed me to the challenges of rural life—bad roads, lack of clean water, and inadequate healthcare. That is why I focus on community-oriented projects,” he explained.
The Deputy Speaker noted that his vision is to make rural living easier and stimulate local economies through the provision of quality roads, schools, water, and healthcare facilities.
Kalu added that he holds regular town hall meetings with traditional rulers, students, market women, and community leaders to evaluate progress and set new priorities.
“Everyone deserves attention, even those who didn’t vote for me,” he said, stressing that inclusivity and transparency remain the hallmarks of his leadership.
Commending President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, especially the removal of fuel subsidy, Kalu said the policy had redirected more funds to states, thereby promoting grassroots development.
“Politics is a call to service. My focus is on building sustainable communities and grooming future leaders who will sustain our legacy of innovation,” he said.
Highlighting his achievements, Kalu listed key road projects such as Umuimenyi Road, Bende Town Road, Grammar School Road, Ubibia Road, and the Uzuakoli–Item–Alayi Link Road connecting to Ebonyi State.
He revealed that over 50 schools had been renovated or newly built, including Umuaro Primary School, Bende Central School, and Community School Alayi, while health facilities such as Umunnato Health Centre and Bende Health Centre were also constructed or upgraded to improve medical services.
According to him, his team has empowered women and youths through agribusiness training, poultry distribution, and grant support to enhance rural livelihoods.
Kalu also disclosed that his Benjamin Kalu Foundation, established in 2003, has awarded scholarships to 190 students across 19 northern states, with another batch to be announced soon.
He further renewed his call for the division of Bende into three local government areas — Bende North, South, and Central — to promote fairer resource distribution and effective governance.
“Our dream is a Bende with good roads, schools, hospitals, and clean water. We are also addressing power challenges through solar energy projects, which now power small businesses across Bende,” Kalu added.
