President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s nomination of Barrister Neya Uzor Kalu as a non-career ambassador has sparked widespread applause from scholars, political figures, organisations, and community leaders across the country. Many see the move as a strong step toward promoting youth inclusion, gender balance, and merit-based leadership in Nigeria’s public service.
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From Kano, Professor Adamu Usman described the President’s choice as a bold and refreshing endorsement of young, capable Nigerians. According to him, the nomination shows that President Tinubu is committed to giving talented young professionals a place on the global stage.
He added that Neya Kalu represents “a dynamic, intelligent, and well-prepared generation of emerging leaders,” noting that her selection further demonstrates deliberate efforts to strengthen women’s representation in governance.
Professor Usman also pointed out that the President’s earlier appointment of another young Nigerian in the Ministry of Science and Technology proves that “a forward-looking leadership pipeline is gradually taking shape in the country.”
In his own remarks, Professor Eni Kalu called the nomination “well deserved,” adding that Neya Kalu’s professionalism, composure, and competence make her an excellent fit for the ambassadorial role.
Legal practitioner and public affairs commentator, Barr. Peter Ndukwe, also hailed the development. He described the nomination as “merited and widely supported,” given Neya Kalu’s strong record as a lawyer, business leader, philanthropist, and key figure in the media industry.
He thanked President Tinubu for choosing someone he described as “a perfect match for the responsibilities of an ambassador.”
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bende Local Government Area, Abia State, also issued a congratulatory statement signed by Chairman Chief (Hon.) Prince Ulu Onwuchekwa and Secretary Chief (Comr.) Igwe Chibuisi Agu. The party described the appointment as both “well earned and long overdue.”
They highlighted Neya Kalu’s numerous contributions to human capital development across Bende LGA and the wider Abia North region—from donating educational materials to supporting community initiatives—alongside her leadership as Chairman of The Sun Publishing Company.
They also noted that her upbringing under Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, former Abia Governor and current Chairman of the Senate Committee on the South East Development Commission, has further shaped her discipline and leadership qualities.
According to the APC leaders, Neya Kalu’s wealth of experience will make her an outstanding representative of Nigeria abroad. They thanked President Tinubu for “selecting a highly capable and distinguished nominee with proven capacity.”
In Abia North, the Abia North Peace Foundation (ANPF) also commended the President’s decision. Its Director-General, Chief Nnanna Ukaegbu, described the nomination as “a thoughtful recognition of competence, character, and dedication to national service.”
The group praised Neya Kalu’s achievements as a lawyer, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and administrator, saying she has consistently demonstrated qualities befitting a national envoy.
Chief Ukaegbu added that the appointment has brought pride to the Abia North region, expressing confidence in her ability to excel once confirmed by the Senate. He offered prayers for divine guidance as she prepares for the role.
Across Nigeria, reactions continue to highlight the nomination as a meaningful step toward a more inclusive and progressive leadership landscape—one that recognises the capacity of young Nigerians to take on major national responsibilities.
