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Tag: Kalu

  • We are all equal as members of parliament, no discrimination -Kalu

    We are all equal as members of parliament, no discrimination -Kalu

    Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu has declared that all members of the parliament are colleagues and equal irrespective of their political affiliations, economic or social backgrounds.

    He said that being a presiding officer, principal officer or chairman of a committee is a privilege granted by both the leave of the House and the mandate of the members, emphasizing that the position does not presuppose superiority.

    He stated that there is no discrimination of any member whether old or new, ranking or no ranking.

    This clarification becomes necessary in the light of the development that occurred during the plenary on Tuesday where the member representing Bonny/Degema federal constituency of Rivers State, Hon. Cyril Hart alleged that preferential treatment is accorded to the ranking members over the first timers.

    Kalu, who responded that there was “no discrimination in parliament” further clarified that the row where the member was sitting had earlier been given an opportunity to speak, stressing that other rows also needed to be accommodated.

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    The Deputy Speaker added that members are however recognized to make their valuable contributions to debates based on their sitting arrangement and not by their age, tribe, geopolitical zones, political or legislative experience.

    In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, Kalu said that the presiding officers are not bosses to the members but only servant-leaders committed to upholding democratic ethos and tenets by providing the needed direction to help realize the mandate of the House in the overall interest of the country.

    He emphasized that the 10th House under the able leadership Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas will continue to be fair, just and open to every member and ensure that all voices are heard.

    He stressed that their privileged positions as first among equals do not elevate them higher and above their colleagues, assuring that the members will always be accorded the needed respect and recognition in the spirit of equality and brotherhood.

  • Kalu decries trade imbalance between Nigeria, South Africa

    Kalu decries trade imbalance between Nigeria, South Africa

    Deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has decried the growing trade imbalance between Nigeria and South Africa, saying Nigerian businesses need more support to measure up in the foreign land.

    Kalu spoke at a meeting with a cross-section of the Nigerian Committee in South Africa, on the sidelines of the ongoing 3rd Ordinary Session of the 6th Parliament of the Pan-African Parliamentary (PAP) in Johannesburg, South Africa.

    The deputy speaker also assured the Nigerian community that efforts will be made to address the difficulty they are experiencing in getting their National Identification Number.

    He said: “Our relationship with the Republic of South Africa is long-standing and multifaceted, encompassing both triumphs and challenges.

    “Despite the significant volume of trade between Nigeria and South Africa –reaching US$2.9 billion in 2020 – there are still several grey areas that need our attention. Operational hurdles faced by Nigerian investors wanting to do business in South Africa, and issues concerning people-to-people relations remain major concerns.

    “South African companies are well represented in Nigeria, yet Nigerian companies are few in South Africa. In 2020, South Africa imported US$2.48 billion worth of goods from Nigeria, predominantly crude oil, and exported US$425 million worth of goods to Nigeria. This trade imbalance highlights the need for greater support and facilitation for Nigerian businesses in South Africa.”

    Responding to the challenges faced by Nigerians in South Africa in registering and getting their National Identity Number (NIN), the Deputy Speaker promised to interface with the appropriate authorities to sort out the issues.

    Read Also: About 24 million Nigerians battling loss of sight, says Kalu

    He urged the people to foster a good relationship with their host country, obey the laws of the land, and prove themselves worthy ambassadors of Nigeria.

    “As the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, I assure you that my office is always open to hearing your prompts, complaints, and concerns. We are committed to sorting out the issues faced by Nigerians in the diaspora, particularly those in South Africa, in collaboration with the Nigeria Diaspora Commission.

    “I am aware of the difficulties many of you have encountered in registering and obtaining the National Identity Number (NIN). I assure you that these complaints will be expedited to the Minister of Interior Affairs and the leadership of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) for swift resolution.

    “I implore every member of the Nigerian community in South Africa to foster good neighborly relations with your hosts. Showcase the best of Nigerian behavior and patriotism by being law-abiding, respecting law enforcement, working hard, and being entrepreneurial. Uphold integrity and honesty in all your dealings. Your conduct not only reflects on you as an individual but on Nigeria as a whole.

    “Let us work together to build a stronger, more supportive community here in South Africa. By curating positive relationships and upholding the highest standards of conduct, we can ensure a better and safer environment for all Nigerians”, Kalu said.

  • About 24 million Nigerians battling loss of sight, says Kalu

    About 24 million Nigerians battling loss of sight, says Kalu

    Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu said at the weekend that about 24 million Nigerians were grappling with cases of loss of eyesight, stressing the need to do something drastic to address the challenge. 

    The Deputy Speaker, who spoke at a Charity Champions Gala night, said it is in view of the need to do something to address the challenge that the House of Representatives was determined to ensure expanded access to eye care service in the country. 

    He informed that the National Eye Centre Act (Amendment) Bill aimed to address this challenge has already scaled first reading in the parliament. 

    The Deputy Speaker expressed concerns  over the high number of Nigerians grappling with eye loss, adding that it was the intention of the House of Representatives to provide lasting solution to the problem through legislative interventions. 

    According to him, the Benjamin Kalu Foundation which he champions, has treated over 4,000 of his constituents with various degrees of eye problems in the last one year to ultimately demonstrate his commitment towards assisting the underserved in the communities. 

    He said: “This evening, we come together for a cause that transcends all differences– the gift of sight and showing support for eye care services to underserved communities in Nigeria. An estimated 24 million Nigerians grapple with sight loss, which demands our collective attention.

    “As the Deputy Speaker, I am keenly aware of the challenges we face. The National Blindness and Visual Impairment Survey paints a stark picture, with 4.2% of Nigerians over 40 classified as blind. 

    “This is why I championed the National Eye Centre Act (Amendment) Bill which has since passed its first reading. This bill aims to expand access to specialized eye care by establishing more centers across the country.

    Read Also: Birthday tribute to Hon. Benjamin Kalu

    But legislative efforts alone cannot solve this crisis. We need the commitment of champions like yourselves – individuals who understand the power of community.

    “It is pertinent to note that since last year, the Benjamin Kalu Foundation has treated about 4,000 constituents with eyesight problems, demonstrating the incredible impact that dedicated efforts can have on our communities. This remarkable achievement underscores the power of collective action and the difference we can make when we come together.”

    He also commended former Super Eagles stars including Austin Jay Jay Okocha and Kanu Nwankwo for subscribing to humanitarian services through their respective Foundations.

  • Sit-at-home not in South East’s interest, says Deputy Speaker Kalu

    Sit-at-home not in South East’s interest, says Deputy Speaker Kalu

    Deputy Speaker Hon. Benjamin Kalu has sued for peace between residents of Aba, Abia state and the military following Thursday’s attack on a military check point in the town which left soldiers dead. 

    In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, Kalu condemned the attack on the check point by yet-to-be identified assailants.

    He said the killing of the military personnel who were doing their lawful duty was unwarranted, outrageous, unjust, cruel and absolutely condemnable. 

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    Kalu, who represents Bende Federal Constituency of Abia State, said that Aba people better known for their enterprising spirit and technical skills cannot be hoodwinked to think that locking up their shops and closing their businesses to stay at home was in their best interest.

    While reminding the people that Aba is the commercial nerve centre of the South East and as such plays host to people from all walks of life, Kalu also urged them not to trade their known hospitality with violence, saying that it is alien to the culture of  Ndi Igbo. 

    He said that while efforts were ongoing to quell the rising wave of insecurity and restore peace in the whole of the South East region through a non kinetic approach championed by Peace In South East (PISE-P), it was unnecessary to engage in acts capable of truncating the gains already made. 

    The Deputy Speaker appealed to the people to support the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu which has vested unusual interest in the development of the South East, saying that doing otherwise will affect the fortunes of the region. 

  • Birthday tribute to Hon. Benjamin Kalu

    Birthday tribute to Hon. Benjamin Kalu

    As the nation’s deputy speaker marks his 53rd birthday it will not sit well with a number of persons like me should my pen not stir itself and dance unto words and treatises in celebrating such an enigma.

    I should have penned this belated piece last week but readers would remember that I had pushed forward the conclusion of my series “Musings On These Men of God” in honour of my late uncle, Professor Gauis Igboeli, who was committed to earth on the 1st of May, 2024. I could not again push back the series as a lot of readers had commented on the first piece and were salivating for the conclusion which I penned last weekend.

    Within the rivers of  Nigerian history, the likes of Kalu have wafted through the numerous currents which has seen him move upwards and higher as an answer to the quest for germane Igbo  and Nigerian Leadership. Kalu’s rise and stewardship seems to have jolted the Nigerian public causing him to become one of the major forces of the Tenth National Assembly. While many Deputy Speakers in the past may have been content with just the appellation and maybe the perks that come with such a position, Kalu has rather bestrode the Green Chambers like a behemoth, impacting the House with his charisma and intellect while working effectively and loyally with the leadership and his colleagues.

    Kalu has been in the eyes of the public since he emerged as spokesperson for the House in the 9th Assembly, he has emerged as a fine politico who is destined for greater things in service to the Nigerian nation. 

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    So at 53 what makes the Prince of Abia thick? As he marks this significant milestone in his life, it is indeed much fitting to reflect on the distinguished member of the House of Representatives representing the Bende Federal Constituency in Abia State, alongside his journey, accomplishments, and contributions to the political landscape. Born on the 5th of May, 1971,  Kalu who hails  from a humble background had his primary and secondary education in Bende, then under the East Central State and then under old Imo State.

    Kalu naturally excelled academically and had began demonstrating a keen leadership potential from a young age. He went on to pursue higher education by earning his first degree, an LLB in Law from the University of Calabar.

    His academic background and participation  in student unionism much equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complex world of politics and governance. Kalu’s interest in public service led him to join the political arena, where he quickly gained popularity by becoming the 1st President of the People’s Democratic Party in the Diaspora where he ably demonstrated his knack for effective mobilization and caught the eye of the then Governor of Abia State, Orji Uzor Kalu .  Three stints as the youngest local government helmsman in Bende LGA, SSA on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs  and  then as SSA on Millennium Development Goals  saw Kalu cut his teeth in the politics of Abia State. It was at this point that Kalu honed his leadership skills obviously in preparation for many more opportunities to serve his people.

    Kalu was also to engage in  several other  academic pursuits,  bagging an MBA from Oxford Brookes and a number of professional certificates from prestigious academic institutions all over the world.

    In 2019, Benjamin Kalu contested and won the seat in the House of Representatives, representing the Bende Federal Constituency. Such victory which naturally was an upset remains a testament to his widespread support among the people, who picked a rep member from a then vilified All Progressives Congress as against the candidate of the  darling People’s Democratic Party. On assuming his seat , Kalu was to demonstrate his leadership prowess by representing the House as its spokesperson. It is said that Kalu’s stint as spokesperson remains one of the finest since the inception of such a position with Kalu engaging each and every of the House’s publics with a high level of distinctiveness, let me also state that it was at such a point that I met him and was impressed with his humility.

    As a legislator during  his first stint, Benjamin Kalu was actively involved in the legislative process, sponsoring bills and motions that addressed critical issues such as infrastructure development, youth empowerment, and good governance,  a vocal advocate for transparency, accountability, and effective leadership in government. Kalu stood out amongst his peers as a people’s representative, this naturally earned him a second term.

    Another of Kalu’s notable achievements in office is his role in facilitating the construction of vital infrastructure projects in his constituency, including roads, schools, and healthcare facilities. Through his advocacy and lobbying efforts, he has secured funding for these projects, which have had a significant impact on the lives of the people in Bende.

    Beyond his legislative duties, Benjamin Kalu is deeply committed to community service and philanthropy. I must not fail to mention his interventions in ensuring that the SouthEast Region is saved from the resultant horrors of the violence that seeks to threaten or overwhelm the region through his Peace in the SouthEast Project (PISE-P) in which He has actively engaged with stakeholders and local organizations and to support initiatives that will promote peace in this part of Nigeria. While it is to early to determine its impact, one must not fail to  commend Kalu for such an idea!

    As Benjamin Kalu celebrates his 53rd birthday, it is impressive that he remains focused on his mission to serve the Nigerian Nation and leave a lasting legacy of progress and development. His dedication to public service, integrity, and progressive  leadership  continue to inspire others millions of Nigerians all over the country

    In conclusion, Benjamin Kalu’s journey from a humble beginning to a distinguished lawmaker is a testament to his resilience, dedication, and commitment to serving others. As he marks his 53rd birthday, he stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, passion, and a genuine desire to make a difference in the world. Here’s to many more years of success, growth, and impactful leadership for Benjamin Kalu.

  • Current economic problems not Tinubu’s fault – Deputy Speaker Kalu

    Current economic problems not Tinubu’s fault – Deputy Speaker Kalu

    Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu has asserted that President Bola Tinubu is not to blame for the present economic crisis in Nigeria.

    The lawmaker said this on Sunday after he feted orphans, widows, PWDs and the aged at his home in Abia State to celebrate his 53rd birthday.

    The Deputy Speaker responded to questions from reporters, explaining that Tinubu is making a lot of effort to correct the mistakes by the past administrations, which led to the present economic problems.

    Kalu said: “The hardship we are passing through was not caused by this man. It’s a piled up case of previous administrations and how they mismanaged one or two things.”

    “We cannot continue to live in lies thinking that all is well. Tinubu wants to clean up the place so that we can have a genuine livelihood that is sustainable. Let’s keep supporting and encouraging him.”

    He also foresaw a better future for the nation following the present unrest and urged Nigerians to maintain faith in the nation’s current leadership instead of giving up.

    The Deputy Speaker claimed that hoarding wealth or living in luxury while others were impoverished amounted to cruelty.

    Read Also: Tinubu celebrates Deputy Speaker, Kalu, on 53rd birthday

    According to him: “What is the essence of keeping things in the warehouse when there is hunger in the land? What is the essence of keeping things until election periods?

    “I’m not interested in the political party or faith. I’m interested in the colour of humanity which is: if you are up, extend your hands to those who are down.

    “Let’s spread love, peace and unity, showing others that we care irrespective of their background or political affiliation.”

  • May Day: Kalu assures workers of proactive efforts on safer, healthier workplace

    May Day: Kalu assures workers of proactive efforts on safer, healthier workplace

    Deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has assured Nigerian workers of efforts being made to ensure a safer and healthier workplace for them. 

    In a statement to mark the 2024 International Workers’ Day, Kalu extolled the resilience, commitment and dedication of the Nigerian workers, saying that he’s elated by the way they have been conducting themselves over the years

    International Labour Day is celebrated on May 1 every year, to honour and appreciate the contributions of workers around the world and to celebrate hard work and dedication of people who work in various fields to make lives better.

    Kalu said this years Workers Day, with the theme “Ensuring safety and health at work in a changing climate,” resonates with the agenda of 10th House of Representatives towards addressing climate-change-related issues and ensuring a safer and healthier working environment for Nigerian workers.

    He said the theme underscores the urgency of addressing climate change’s impacts on occupational safety, health, and the necessity of safer work environments

    The deputy speaker said that the parliament is committed to fostering legislative actions geared towards protection of workers’ rights, better welfare for their labour and a safer and healthier workplace.

    He also said that some of the legislative action to be taken include strengthening the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) to effectively enforce environmental laws, regulations, and standards and ensure compliance with international agreements, conventions, and environmental treaties, among others.

    While saying that the workers are the driving force of a country, the Deputy Speaker urged them to keep hope alive, assuring that governments at all levels are working together towards making life better for them.

    Read Also: Kalu visits Emirs, solicits traditional rulers’ inputs in constitutional amendments

    Kalu said: “Happy International Labour Day to Nigerian Workers. Today, we celebrate the hard work and dedication of workers worldwide. Your contributions are invaluable. The workers are the driving force of a country. They are the ones who do most of the work to initiate development. The workers get down to the roots of things and start work at the basic level to initiate positive changes to the country and the world. Workers are extremely important as they are the backbone of a society. 

    “The parliament is happy with the way Nigerian workers have been conducting themselves over the years. This year’s theme resonates with the agenda of 10th House of Representatives towards addressing climate-change-related issues and ensuring a safer and healthier working environment for Nigerian workers. We’re committed to legislative actions geared towards protection of workers’ rights, better welfare for their labour and a safer and healthier workplace.”

  • Kalu visits Emirs, solicits traditional rulers’ inputs in constitutional amendments

    Kalu visits Emirs, solicits traditional rulers’ inputs in constitutional amendments

    Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu has promised to engage with the traditional rulers in the ongoing constitutional amendment process for contributions. 

    Kalu, who is the Chairman, Constitution Review Committee in the House, said that the traditional institutions has an invaluable input in meeting the aspirations of the people under the law, saying it will in turn strengthen the Constitution of the country.  

    The Deputy Speaker made the promise in Kano during his separate visits to the Emir of Kano, His Royal Majesty, Dr. Aminu Ado Bayero and the Emir of Bichi, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Nasir Ado on Saturday in Kano State to felicitate the revered monarchs on the recent occasion of the marriage ceremonies of their respective children. 

    Speaking at the palace of the Emir of Kano which was his first port of call, Kalu who was accompanied by some of his colleagues from the parliament and members of the Peace In South East Project ( PISE-P), said that the wisdom of the traditional rulers cannot be ignored in shaping the country.

    He said that a role under the law which does not come “from the federal government, not from the state or local government but from the Constitution” will help the traditional rulers to be able to do their jobs “without biases”.

    Congratulating the Emir on the holy matrimony of his children, Kalu also appreciated him for coming to Bende, Abia State last December during his grand civic reception and the unveiling of PISE-P, a development which mainly necessitated the presence of PISE-P members at the place.

    A statement from Kalu’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Levinus Nwabughiogu stated the Deputy Speaker also expressed gratitude to the Emir for his effort towards the sustenance of peace in the country, appealing to him to continue to support the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 

    He said: “We came to give our best wishes to the new family that just started yesterday. They will live long and give you children, grand and great grand children. They will not be lesser than you. They will be greater than you because that’s the wish of every parent, that his children will grow and become greater, more powerful than themselves. That’s how you measure your success. That’s my prayer. I apologize that I didn’t make it not because that I didn’t want to but a national duty called. 

    Read Also: NASS committee to engage Tinubu on constitutional amendment issues, says Kalu

    “You play a fundamental role in this this nation and peace in the land. You have a role to play in making sure that that we imbibe this agenda. Thank you for the support you are giving to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. It is very obvious that you are partnering with the federal government to ensure there is peace and prosperity in this country. Keep doing what you are doing. It’s yielding fruits”.

    Ado Bayero expressed gratitude to the Deputy Speaker for the visit, describing him as the worthy son of Nigeria. 

    The Emir noted that Kalu’s visit will further strengthen the bonds of national unity and cohesion mostly yearned for by Nigerians. 

    He also appreciated the Deputy Speaker for carrying the traditional rulers along in the constitution review process, assuring him that the institution made up of individuals with invaluable experience will make their contributions.

    The Emir also offered prayers for political leaderships at all levels and the continued peace and progress of Nigeria.

    At the palace of the Emir of Bichi, Alhaji Nasir Ado Bayero in Kano, the Deputy Speaker also felicited the Emir, congratulating him on the marriage of their children.

    Describing him as a valued friend and brother, Kalu recalled the Emir’s role in the launch of PISE-P, appreciating him for flying in from abroad at the time to attend his civic reception in December, 2023.

    The Emir thanked the Deputy Speaker for his visit to the palace and the support for the growth of the traditional institution in Nigeria, recognizing the efforts of the parliament in keeping Nigeria together.

  • NASS committee to engage Tinubu on constitutional amendment issues, says Kalu

    NASS committee to engage Tinubu on constitutional amendment issues, says Kalu

    Deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, said at the weekend that the National Assembly Joint Committee on Constitution Review would engage President Bola Tinubu on issues being considered for amendment. 

    Kalu spoke at a retreat for the secretariat staff and consultants to the Senate and House committees on the review of the constitution. 

    He called for synergy among the consultants and the secretariat staff to set the pace for effective collaboration to drive the ongoing exercise to a successful conclusion.

    Kalu, who doubles as the chairman House Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), told the stakeholders that effective collaboration will drive the task to outcomes that would meet and satisfy the desires and yearning of Nigerians.

    The deputy speaker asked the stakeholders to review the previous proposals which were either not passed by the National/State Assemblies or were not assented to by the president, and consider how those issues can be re-introduced to provide methods of processing them or an action plan that will ensure that reservations which led to their rejection are addressed.

    Kalu said the constitutional alteration is a continuous process and must involve all Nigerians to empower the legislature to evolve a constitution that will address contentious issues that have bedevilled the nation since independence such as state police, and special seats for women among others.

    He said the 10th Assembly was building on the legacies of the previous Assemblies that did comprehensive work, which resulted in the president’s assent to 18 constitution amendment bills in the 9th Assembly. 

    He said: “It is with profound joy that I welcome you all to the Joint Retreat of the Secretariat and Consultants to the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on the Review of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as Altered). 

    “The essence of this retreat is to build synergy among the consultants and the secretariats of the Senate and House Committees on Constitution Review to set the pace for effective collaboration that will drive the task before us towards such outcomes that would meet and satisfy the desires and yearning of Nigerians, especially at a time like this.

    “This retreat will provide a platform for the secretariat and experts to review previous amendment proposals, especially those that were popular among Nigeria but were either not passed by the National/State Assemblies or were not assented to by the President. 

    “It would also consider how those issues can be re-introduced to provide methods of processing them or an action plan that will ensure that reservations which led to their rejection are addressed.

    “As you are all aware, constitutional alteration is a continuous process and must involve all Nigerians regardless of their ideological leanings or beliefs, hence, our call for Memoranda from all stakeholders and the general public. 

    “As experts in your various fields of endeavour, I trust your judgements and I trust that the outcome of this exercise will move Nigeria forward. 

    “This will no doubt empower the legislature to evolve a constitution that will address contentious issues that have bedevilled the nation since independence such as state police; local government administrative autonomy; local government financial autonomy; special seats for women in the national and state houses of assembly, expansion of the scope of citizenship by registration; Indigeneship rights.

    “Affirmative action for women in political party administration; Affirmative action for women in Federal and State Executive Councils; and Electoral and Judicial Reforms, Furthermore, I have personally sponsored various Constitution (Alteration) Bills including that which is on State Police on which a National Dialogue was just concluded. 

    “We must evolve ingenious ways to protect and defend our citizens and cater for their welfare, in line with the sacred provisions of Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (As Altered).

    “The constitution amendment exercise, which is coming at a time when there appear to be agitations in the country, is expected to create a veritable platform for national engagement and conversations where relevant stakeholders and members of the public may make recommendations on the review process with the view to enacting laws that reflect the evolving moral, economic and political values of the Nigerian people.”

    Meanwhile, the deputy speaker has assured that the Constitution Amendment Committee will constantly engage with the traditional rulers in the constitutional amendment process to elicit their contributions. 

    Kalu said the traditional institutions have an invaluable input in meeting the aspirations of the people under the law, saying it will in turn strengthen the Constitution of the country. 

    Speaking during his separate visits to the Emir of Kano, Dr. Aminu Ado Bayero and the Emir of Bichi, Alhaji Nasir Ado said that a role under the law which does not come “from the federal government, not from the state or local government but from the Constitution” will help the traditional rulers to do their jobs “without biases.”

    He also expressed gratitude to the Royal fathers for his effort towards the sustenance of peace in the country, appealing to him to continue to support the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 

    He said: “You play a fundamental role in this nation and peace in the land. You have a role to play in making sure that we imbibe this agenda. Thank you for the support you are giving to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    “It is very obvious that you are partnering with the federal government to ensure there is peace and prosperity in this country. Keep doing what you are doing. It’s yielding fruits.”

    The Emir of Kano, Ado Bayero expressed gratitude to the deputy speaker for the visit, describing him as the worthy son of Nigeria, adding that the visit will further strengthen the bonds of national unity and cohesion mostly yearned for by Nigerians. 

    He also appreciated the deputy speaker for carrying the traditional rulers along in the constitution review process, assuring him that the institution made up of individuals with invaluable experience will make their contributions.

  • Tinubu’s inauguration of Nigerian-Dutch Business, Investment Forum will boost economic ties with Netherlands – Kalu

    Tinubu’s inauguration of Nigerian-Dutch Business, Investment Forum will boost economic ties with Netherlands – Kalu

    Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu has said that the recent inauguration of the Nigerian-Dutch Business and Investment Forum by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will set a new tone and foundation for stronger economic ties between Nigeria and the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

    The Deputy Speaker who spoke at the birthday celebration of King Willem-Alexander of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Abuja, however, reaffirmed the commitment of the House of Representatives to expanding economic cooperation, friendship and bonds between Nigeria and the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

    He said: “It is with great pleasure and honor that I stand before you today to celebrate the birthday of His Majesty King Willem-Alexander of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. On behalf of the House of Representatives and the people of Nigeria, I extend our warmest congratulations and best wishes to His Majesty on this auspicious occasion.

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    “The Netherlands holds a special place in the hearts of Nigerians. Our countries share a long history of friendship and cooperation, rooted in mutual respect and admiration.

    “Over the years, the Netherlands has been a steadfast partner in supporting Nigeria’s development efforts, particularly in areas such as trade, agriculture, water management, and renewable energy.

    “Just yesterday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu inaugurated the Nigerian-Dutch Business and Investment Forum, in the Hague, Netherlands, a platform designed to unite leaders from both nations’ conglomerates and organizations, with a specific focus on promoting collaboration and partnerships in the fields of agriculture and water management. This has now set a new tone and foundation for stronger economic ties between both countries.

    “Evidently, Mr President’s administration is committed to enhancing and will continue to implement various reforms to create a business- friendly environment through measures such as cleaning up the foreign exchange market for transparent and seamless business transactions, removal of fuel subsidy, and allowing foreign companies to repatriate profits through the Central Bank of Nigeria.”