By Lizzy Chirkpi
Former Abia State Governor and Senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, on Sunday, October 11, 2026, hosted the publisher of Pointblanknews, High Chief Jackson Ude, and a delegation of youths from Nkporo Clan at his country home, Camp Neya, in Igbere, Bende Local Government Area of Abia State.
Ude, who holds the traditional title of Odozi Obodo I of Nkporo, led the delegation from Nkporo Clan in Ohafia Local Government Area on a visit focused on community development, youth empowerment and the welfare of their people.
Kalu described the meeting as a warm and engaging interaction, noting that it provided an opportunity to exchange ideas on promoting unity and advancing development in their communities.
The senator thanked Ude and the youths for the visit and reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare and development of his constituents.
He also urged the young people to remain hopeful and resilient, encouraging them to stay committed to building a better future for themselves and their communities.
Ude, a Nigerian-American journalist, publisher and philanthropist, is known for his involvement in initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of his people and creating opportunities for young people in Nkporo.
A former Director of Strategy and Communications to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, Ude has combined his media career with philanthropic activities focused on youth empowerment and grassroots development.
Through various initiatives, he has supported young entrepreneurs and worked to build the capacity of youths across the eight villages that make up Nkporo Clan.
His interventions are aimed at helping young people become self-reliant, pursue productive ventures and contribute meaningfully to the development of their communities.
In January 2016, Ude was conferred with the traditional title of Odozi Obodo I of Nkporo, meaning Beautifier of the Community, by the Eze Ajah of Nkporo Ancient Kingdom in recognition of his contributions to the community.
Meanwhile, Kalu’s country home, Camp Neya, in Igbere has remained a venue for political consultations, community engagements and meetings with political leaders and constituents.
Completed in 1998 and named after his daughter, Neya, the estate has hosted numerous political figures and community stakeholders over the years.
Kalu, who has consistently emphasised grassroots engagement and constituency development, reiterated his commitment to the progress of Abia North, urging the visiting youths to keep hope alive and remain optimistic about the future.

