People Like Dangote, The Day I Told Him I Was Going To Run For Governor, He Felt I Was A Fool — Kalu

According to an interview aired on Arise Television on Monday, November 9, 2026, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has revealed how several politicians persuaded him to venture into politics after he had established himself in the Nigerian business sector.

Kalu, who represents Abia North Senatorial District and is a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council, made the revelation while discussing his journey from business into public service.

During the interview, the presenter recalled his educational background, including his time at Government College, Umuahia, and the University of Maiduguri, before asking whether he had always planned to become a politician or whether influential political figures encouraged him to enter the field.

In his response, Kalu explained that after completing his studies at the University of Maiduguri, he returned to Lagos, where he became involved in different businesses and industries. He mentioned activities such as importing essential commodities, including rice and sugar, as part of his business ventures.

According to him, his growing involvement in business attracted the attention of some politicians, who began approaching him and encouraging him to consider a career in politics.

He said he initially wondered why he should leave the business world to become involved in the political system. However, the repeated discussions and encouragement from politicians gradually influenced his decision.

Kalu also recalled a conversation he had with Nigerian billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote when he informed him of his intention to contest for governor. According to the senator, Dangote was surprised by the decision and questioned whether he fully understood the challenges involved in politics.

He explained that the discussion took place at his residence, where Dangote and Charles Arinze were present. They were reportedly having tea and speaking with Mohammed Wakiri, whom Kalu later described as someone he remembered fondly.

Recounting Dangote’s reaction, Kalu said the businessman told him that anyone considering such a political journey must be very strong. He added that Dangote made it clear that he personally would not want to venture into politics.

Despite the reaction, Kalu said he went ahead with his political plans because politicians continued to encourage him. He also disclosed that some of them persuaded him to consider contesting for governor while he gradually became involved in supporting political activities financially.

His account offers an insight into how he moved from business into politics and the role that political figures played in encouraging him to pursue an elective position.

(Watch the video from 5:10 to 5:16 minutes)

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