The Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL) has announced its support for Senator Orji Uzor Kalu's re-election bid in the 2027 general elections. COSEYL's decision was made after an extensive assessment of Kalu's performance in representing Abia North Senatorial District. The group cited his contributions to infrastructure, education, and human capital development as reasons for their endorsement. COSEYL's President-General, Comrade Goodluck Ibem, and Publicity Secretary, Comrade Okey Nwaoru, signed the statement.
COSEYL's assessment reportedly convinced them that Kalu has made significant contributions to Abia North since his return to the Senate. The group called on residents of Abia North, including those living abroad, to support Kalu's bid for another term. This endorsement is not COSEYL's first public backing of Kalu; they also supported his 2027 bid in 2025. At the time, they defended his record against criticism from opposing groups.
According to COSEYL, Kalu has "redefined representation" through his interventions in infrastructure, education, and human capital development. The group claimed that over 100 rural and urban roads have been constructed, reconstructed, or rehabilitated across Abia North's five local government areas. These road projects have improved access to communities and created opportunities for agricultural and commercial activities. Kalu's office has documented several ongoing and planned road construction and rehabilitation projects.
COSEYL also highlighted education as a major area of Kalu's intervention. The group claimed that he has built or renovated over 100 classroom blocks and provided desks and learning materials to pupils and students across the district. Reports from independent media have also covered Kalu's education interventions. In January 2026, his office began distributing school uniforms to pupils in over 300 primary schools in Abia North.
COSEYL cited Kalu's empowerment programs, which have benefited over 10,000 individuals, including youths, women, farmers, and entrepreneurs. The programs provided training, support, or funding through Kalu's foundation and constituency interventions. The group also praised opportunities for young Nigerians to receive specialized training abroad. Reports have highlighted Kalu's programs involving international training and scholarships in areas such as technology.
Beyond constituency projects, COSEYL described Kalu as a ranking senator whose experience and position in the National Assembly have enabled him to represent Abia North and broader South East interests. The group argued that his experience provides a platform for continued engagement on issues affecting the district and the wider South East. Kalu has directed his media team and supporters to focus on his legislative performance and infrastructure projects.
COSEYL urged residents of Abia North to support Kalu's re-election bid, citing his record of performance. The group criticized unnamed political opponents who they accused of using social media to attack Kalu despite lacking a meaningful footprint in the district. Traditional rulers in Isuikwuato Local Government Area have also expressed support for Kalu's return to the Senate, citing his constituency engagement and interventions.
Key points
- COSEYL endorses Orji Uzor Kalu for Senate re-election, citing his record of constituency development and legislative representation.
- Kalu's interventions have covered infrastructure, education, and human capital development in Abia North Senatorial District.
- COSEYL urges Abia North residents to support Kalu's bid, focusing on his projects and measurable activities.
