Former Abia State governor and lawmaker representing Abia North Senatorial District, Orji Uzor Kalu, has called on Nigerians to remain hopeful and supportive of ongoing economic reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu, saying the measures, though painful, were necessary for the country’s long-term stability, economic growth and overall prosperity of the nation. Kalu made the call in his Sallah message to Muslim faithful and Nigerians at large yesterday. The former Senate Chief Whip urged citizens not to lose faith, stressing that patience, unity and collective sacrifice were necessary to reposition the nation’s economy. According to him, the current reforms being implemented by the Federal Government were aimed at laying a strong foundation for a better and more prosperous Nigeria. “The reforms may be painful today, but they are for good reasons and in the overall interest of Nigerians. I appeal to citizens to remain patient and supportive of the government as efforts are being made to rebuild the economy and secure a better future for all,” he said. Kalu also used the occasion to preach peace, national unity and religious tolerance, urging Nigerians to avoid divisive tendencies capable of threatening the country’s stability. He noted that Nigeria’s economic future depends largely on productive investments, entrepreneurship and youth empowerment, adding that the country must gradually shift from excessive consumption to production. “We must encourage investment, local production and entrepreneurship. A production-driven economy will create jobs for our youths, strengthen local industries and reduce over-dependence on imports,” the senator stated. He further urged young Nigerians to embrace innovation, skills acquisition and enterprise development as pathways to self-reliance and national growth. He congratulated Muslim faithful on the Eid-el-Kabir celebration and prayed for lasting peace, security and economic prosperity across the country. He expressed optimism that with unity, resilience and shared sacrifice, Nigeria would overcome its current economic challenges and emerge stronger.