Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has called on the United Kingdom to deepen its collaboration with Nigeria in combating corruption. Speaking at the “UK-Nigeria Collaboration: A Parliamentary Strategic Dialogue” in London, Benjamin Okezie Kalu highlighted the importance of bilateral efforts to curb corruption and strengthen governance.
The event, attended by Rt. Hon. Lord Collins, Deputy Leader of the British House of Lords, and other prominent parliamentarians from both nations, provided a platform to discuss pressing issues. Benjamin Okezie Kalu urged the UK government to ease the process of repatriating funds seized from corrupt Nigerian officials held in the UK’s financial system, emphasizing that such actions would bolster Nigeria’s anti-corruption fight and promote transparency.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations through Strategic Partnership
Benjamin Okezie Kalu highlighted the UK-Nigeria Strategic Partnership as a comprehensive framework for enhancing bilateral relations across key areas. He stated that this partnership is built on six pillars, including economic growth, trade, and sustainable investments in sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, and energy. The Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP) is central to achieving mutual economic growth by addressing market barriers and boosting trade.
In his address, Benjamin Okezie Kalu also discussed migration management and prisoner transfer agreements as part of the partnership. Both nations, he said, are committed to tackling visa abuse and advancing global financial system reforms. These efforts aim to facilitate safe migration and strengthen the integrity of their respective legal frameworks.
UK’s Role in Nigeria’s Fight Against Corruption
Benjamin Okezie Kalu emphasized the critical role the UK can play in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts. He urged the UK to intensify its support by setting up mechanisms to curb illicit financial flows and facilitating the repatriation of stolen funds. Enhanced collaboration between the two nations, he argued, should include bilateral agreements to expedite asset recovery processes.
Benjamin Okezie Kalu highlighted the presence of the Chairman of the Nigerian Parliament Committee on Financial Crimes at the event, emphasizing their readiness to engage further with UK officials. According to him, such collaboration is vital for strengthening institutions and ensuring accountability in governance.
Constitutional Reforms: Nigeria Seeks UK’s Expertise
As Chair of the House Committee on Constitution Review, Benjamin Okezie Kalu outlined Nigeria’s ongoing constitutional reform efforts. He stressed the importance of addressing key issues such as creating special status seats for women in legislative assemblies, introducing gender-sensitive legislation, and exploring the potential for sub-national policing to address security challenges.
Benjamin Okezie Kalu called on the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to provide technical support, research expertise, and capacity-building programs for these reforms. He asserted that such assistance would help Nigeria create a constitution that reflects the evolving needs of its people while aligning with international best practices.
Empowering Marginalized Groups through Legislative Support
Benjamin Okezie Kalu emphasized the significance of inclusive governance in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy. He noted that addressing issues like gender equity and community security would empower marginalized groups and foster safer communities. The proposed constitutional reforms aim to reflect these priorities and align with the shared values of equity and justice between Nigeria and the UK.
He further highlighted that the UK-Nigeria Strategic Partnership demonstrates a mutual commitment to fortifying legislative frameworks. Such collaboration, Benjamin Okezie Kalu said, would ensure that Nigeria’s governance systems are better equipped to tackle future challenges and provide a legacy of inclusive development for generations to come.
Shared Vision for Stronger Democratic Institutions
In concluding his remarks, Benjamin Okezie Kalu reiterated the importance of UK support in strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions. He praised the UK-Nigeria Strategic Partnership as a testament to both nations’ commitment to shared values and collective progress.
Benjamin Okezie Kalu called on stakeholders from both countries to prioritize collaboration in combating corruption, enhancing trade, and promoting constitutional reforms. According to him, these efforts will not only benefit Nigeria but also reinforce the global commitment to equity, justice, and sustainable development.
Table of Contents
Discover more from OGM News NG
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.