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The Honourable
Benjamin Kalu
Benjamin Kalu
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives of Nigeria
Assumed office
13 June 2023
SpeakerTajudeen Abbas
Preceded byAhmed Idris Wase
Member of the
House of Representatives of Nigeria
from Abia
Assumed office
11 June 2019
ConstituencyBende
Personal details
NationalityNigerian
Political partyAll Progressives Congress
Other political
affiliations		Peoples Democratic Party
Progressive Peoples Alliance
Residence(s)Abuja, Nigeria
OccupationPolitician

Benjamin Okezie Kalu is a prominent Nigerian politician, serving as the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives of Nigeria since 2023. His election to this esteemed position was unopposed, underscoring his significant political influence. Kalu represents the Bende federal constituency, bringing their issues and perspectives to the national stage in his legislative role.[1]

Life, education and political career[edit]

Benjamin Okezie Kalu was born on 5th of May 1971 in Agbamuzu, Bende Local Government Area of Abia State. He represents the Bende Federal Constituency and is committed to contributing to national development through legislative processes, project implementation, and manpower development. As a legislator and spokesperson for the 9th Assembly of the Federal House of Representatives in Nigeria, he has garnered international acclaim for his efforts in national development and lawmaking processes.

Kalu has an impressive educational background. He is currently enrolled in a Ph.D program in Public Policy and Strategic Studies at the University of Abuja. He holds a Master of Business Administration from Oxford Brookes University, a Masters of Law in Terrorism and International Humanitarian Law (Distinction), and a Bachelor of Law LL.B Hons. from the University of Calabar. He was also called to the Nigerian Bar, after completing his studies at the Nigeria Law School in Enugu, where he honed his legal skills.

Throughout his career, Kalu has pursued continuous professional development, obtaining various certifications in diverse areas, to enhance his expertise. In 2022, his expertise in Migration and Human Rights was recognised through a certificate earned at John Cabot University Campus in Italy. Kalu’s commitment to combating illicit trade is evident in his certification; a Certificate in Illicit Trade, from the University of Groningen in the Netherlands. He has also acquired valuable knowledge in governance and development through a program; Certificate in Governance & Development at Miami Herbert Business School at Miami University in the USA, and in environmental crimes through a certificate; Certificate in Environmental Crimes obtained from the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI) in Italy. Additionally, his Diploma in International Commercial Arbitration from the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators United Kingdom (CIARB) at the University of Oxford obtained in 2014 showcases his proficiency in dispute resolution.

Kalu’s global recognition extends to his Fellowship in prestigious organizations such as OSHAssociation UK, the Chartered Institute of International Arbitrators (CIARB UK), the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), and his fellowship with the Institute of Administrative Managers (F.Inst.AM). These affiliations reflect his commitment to excellence and professionalism in various fields.

Kalu’s accomplishments and expertise have made a significant impact on society. As a dedicated and proactive legislator and member of the House of Representatives in the National Assembly of the Federal Government of Nigeria since 2019, he has played a vital role in shaping policies and implementing projects that contribute to national development. In this role, he has been involved in media, publicity, social awareness services, legislative duties, business and financial analysis, projects development and management, as well as peace and conflict resolution to heighten public engagement and awareness on critical issues. In the past two years, he has taken the lead in moving over 22 motions on crucial public issues. Some of these motions include addressing environmental degradation, investigating alleged violations and failures of government agencies, and advocating for the well-being of Nigerians both at home and abroad.

In addition to his motions, Benjamin Kalu has also played a significant role in proposing and supporting important bills. He has been involved in the amendment of acts such as the Acts Authentication Act and the Nigerian Communications Act, aiming to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of these institutions. He has also worked on bills that establish new bodies like the Federal Capital Territory Education Resource Centre and the National Inspector-General for Tax Crimes Commission, striving to enhance education and promote economic efficiency in the country.

With his unwavering commitment to public service and his active involvement in legislative activities, Benjamin Kalu continues to make a positive impact on the Nigerian government and the lives of its citizens. In his legal field, Kalu’s role as a Founding Partner and Principal Arbitrator at Silk Partners LLP, showcases his mastery of diplomatic liaison, immigration advisory services, company law, commercial best practices, energy law, international commercial contracts, and arbitration. His expertise and dedication have earned him respect and recognition on a global scale.

Earlier in his career, Kalu served as the Local Government Chairman (Transition) for Bende Local Government Area in Abia State. In this role, he effectively managed numerous autonomous communities, political wards, and various departments to deliver essential services to the citizens. In his previous role as an Executive Adviser to the Governor of Abia State, Kalu provided valuable guidance on Millennium Development Goals (MDG) and international relations. He also played a key role in the development and implementation of strategic marketing plans and the administration of federal allocation projects.

Beyond his legislative and legal contributions, Kalu has demonstrated his commitment to humanitarian work. His involvement as the Team Leader for the Sudan Darfur Project with Australia for the United Nations High Commission for Refugees highlights his compassion and strong leadership in crisis situations. He also founded a charity organisation; named Benjamin Kalu Foundation in 2003, registered in 2009, to cater and empower vulnerable individuals including youth, women, and people living with disabilities.

As a visionary leader and advocate for peace, Benjamin Kalu has taken on the noble task of spearheading the Peace in the South East Project, with an unwavering commitment to fostering harmony and unity, Kalu aims to bring lasting peace to the region. Peace in the South East (PISE) project is a project aimed at employing the use of non-kinetic means to resolve insecurity in the South East Region of Nigeria. Through his tireless efforts, Kalu has initiated various dialogue platforms, engaging key stakeholders and community leaders in constructive conversations. He believes that open communication, understanding, and empathy are essential in resolving conflicts and building bridges of trust. The Peace in the South East Project focuses on addressing the root causes of discord, promoting inclusivity, and finding common ground among different ethnic and religious groups. Kalu's approach is rooted in promoting respect for diversity and encouraging peaceful coexistence.

Through the Peace in the South East Project, Benjamin Kalu is paving the way for a brighter, more peaceful future. His unwavering commitment to peacebuilding serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us that with understanding and collaboration, we can overcome even the most challenging conflicts. His ability to work collaboratively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds has been instrumental to in achieving positive outcomes.

Kalu possesses a wide range of skills, including human resource management, competitive analysis, market intelligence, global marketing, international business strategy, product development, and risk management. Fluent in English and his native languages, Kalu has utilized his language skills to develop marketing campaigns, raise funds for the Sudan Darfur Crisis, and provide orientation and enlightenment to refugees in Australia.

Overall, Benjamin Okezie Kalu is a highly accomplished individual with a strong dedication to public service, national development, and the well-being of his constituents.

Political Rise[edit]

Benjamin Okezie Kalu graduated from the University of Calabar, where he served as a student representative at twenty three years. At twenty nine years, he served as the national chapter president of the PDP in diaspora. He served as the youngest local government chairman of Bende, Abia State, Nigeria at the age of thirty one. At thirty four years, he served as the senior special adviser to the then governor of Abia State Theodore Orji on local government and chieftaincy affairs, and later as a Local Government Chairman under Orji Uzor Kalu before becoming the senior special adviser to the governor on Millennium Development Goals and international relations at the age of thirty five.[2][3][4]

Kalu started his political career in 2002 by contesting for the House of Representatives primaries and losing to Mbah Ajah. In 2011 and 2015, he contested for the House of Representatives election, representing Progressive Peoples Alliance at that time, but lost in both elections.[5][6] On 23 February 2019, Kalu, representing the ruling All Progressives Congress defeated Chima Anyaso of the People's Democratic Party and won the seat to represent Bende federal constituency, Abia State in the House of Representatives.[7][8][9][10] He received 9,138 votes, while Anyaso received 5,591 votes.[11] Anyaso rejected the result of the election and challenged the victory of Kalu in the National and State Assembly Election Petitions tribunal, citing irregularities in the election.[12][13] On 29 August 2019, the tribunal dismissed the petition for lacking merit and upheld the election of Kalu.[14][15] After losing at the tribunal, Anyaso appealed the case at the Court of Appeal, Owerri Division. On 28 October 2019, the Appeal court upheld Kalu's election.[16][17] Kalu was the spokesperson of the House of Representatives and the Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs in the 9th Assembly.[18][19][20] In 2023 he was re-elected into the National Assembly and is currently the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives of Nigeria. His House Committee Roles in the 10th assembly includes Chairman of the Constitution Review & Amendment Committee from 2023 to 2027 and Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee of the Whole, Federal Republic of Nigeria, from 2023 to 2027.

Personal life[edit]

Kalu is from Bende, Abia State, Nigeria. He is married with 5 children.

Awards and Recognition[edit]

  1. The 2018 UNN Distinguished National Youths Motivator Award was given to Benjamin Kalu for his exceptional work in motivating and inspiring young people across the nation. This award recognizes his efforts in encouraging and empowering the youth to reach their full potential.
  2. In 2023, Benjamin Kalu was nominated in the Hall of Fame Category Award as the Most Valuable Parliamentarian by OrderPaper. This prestigious accolade celebrates his outstanding contributions and performance as a parliamentarian, highlighting his exceptional dedication and impact in the legislative field as a Top Performer in Bills Sponsorship in the South East East Geo-Political Zone.
  3. In 2022, Benjamin Kalu was recognized as the Outstanding Rep member of the Year at the Democracy Heroes Award Africa. This award acknowledges his exceptional service and dedication as a representative, highlighting his significant contributions towards promoting democracy and good governance in Nigeria.[21]
  4. The 2021 Zik's Award of Excellence on Civic Engagement was bestowed upon Benjamin Kalu in honour of the Late Rt.Hon Dr. Nnamdi Azikwe. This award recognizes his outstanding efforts and achievements in promoting and engaging citizens in civic participation and public affairs, in bridging the gap between the citizens and the parliament, emphasizing his commitment to the betterment of society.
  5. Benjamin Kalu was honored with the 'South East and Abia State Federal Lawmaker of the Year' Award by Independent Newspapers. This recognition was presented to him at the Annual Independent Nigerian Parliamentary Excellence Awards. The award acknowledges his exceptional performance and contributions as a federal lawmaker representing the South East region and specifically Abia State. This accolade highlights his dedication and effectiveness in serving his constituents and making a positive impact on legislative matters at the federal level.
  6. In 2021, Benjamin Kalu received the Outstanding Legislative Contribution Award for his significant contributions towards improving Tuberculosis policy and funding in Nigeria, his fight against Tuberculosis in Nigeria exceptional, efforts in the legislative field and his commitment to addressing important health issues in the country, in Africa and Globally.[22]
  7. The 2023 Leadership Excellence (LEEX) Awards by Igbere TV recognized Benjamin Kalu for his exemplary leadership skills and achievements. This award showcases his strong leadership qualities and his outstanding contributions towards the betterment of society.[23]
  8. The 2019 Humanitarian Service Award by the Creative Industry was given to Benjamin Kalu in recognition of his contributions towards empowering the youth, supporting the less privileged, and advocating for the common man. This award highlights his dedication to humanitarian work and his commitment to making a positive impact in society.[24]
  9. In 2022, Benjamin Kalu received the Flo FM Icon Award as the Most Impactful Lawmaker of the Year. This award acknowledges his significant influence and positive impact as a lawmaker, highlighting his efforts in driving positive change and making a difference in the lives of the people he represents.[25]
  10. The Abia State Law Student Association (ALSA) awarded Benjamin Kalu with the Beacon of Hope Award of Excellence. This prestigious accolade celebrates Benjamin Kalu's outstanding leadership and positive impact in the field of law, recognizing his dedication to upholding justice and promoting the rights and welfare of the people of Abia State.
  11. In 2021, Benjamin Kalu was recognized as the Most Outstanding Federal Legislator in Abia State. This award highlights his exceptional performance and accomplishments as a federal legislator, underscoring his commitment to effectively representing the interests of the people of Abia State at the national level.
  12. The National Union of Journalists awarded Benjamin Kalu with the ‘Model of Media and Public Relation Matters’ Award. This recognition was given to him for his exceptional work as the Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, as well as his role as the spokesperson of the 9th House of Representative. This accolade acknowledges his outstanding contributions and effectiveness in handling media and public relations matters within the context of his responsibilities in the House of Representatives.

References[edit]

  1. ^ "10th NASS: Benjamin Kalu sworn in as Deputy Speaker". Vanguard News.
  2. ^ Baiyewu, Leke (13 May 2021). "Miscreants burgle Reps spokesman's office, lawmaker laments insecurity". The Punch Newspaper. Retrieved 31 May 2021.
  3. ^ Baiyewu, Leke (14 May 2021). "Asaba Accord: Gbajabiamila didn't oppose Southern Govs, say Reps". The Punch Newspaper. Retrieved 31 May 2021.
  4. ^ Onuoha, Chris (26 May 2021). "Bringing dividends of democracy to Bende people is my political mantra – Ben Kalu". Vanguard Newspaper. Retrieved 31 May 2021.
  5. ^ Sampson, Okey (8 March 2019). "Orji Kalu'll not disappoint his people as senator –Ben Kalu". The Sun Newspaper. Retrieved 31 May 2021.
  6. ^ Duru, Ben (2 March 2011). "Representatives Candidate Assures on Effective Representation in Abia". The Independent Newspaper. Retrieved 31 May 2021.
  7. ^ Emeruwa, Chijindu (14 June 2019). "How I will work with Ikpeazu - Abia lawmaker, Kalu". Daily Post Nigeria. Retrieved 31 May 2021.
  8. ^ "Anyaso wins PDP's House of Rep seat for Bende Fed". Vanguard Newspaper. 5 October 2018. Retrieved 31 May 2021.
  9. ^ Urowayino, Jeremiah (12 February 2019). "Bende Federal Constituency: Anyaso expresses confidence of PDP's Victory". Vanguard Newspaper. Retrieved 31 May 2021.
  10. ^ Udeajah, Gordi (18 May 2021). "PDP charts new path to recover Bende federal constituency seat from APC". The Guardian Newspaper. Retrieved 31 May 2021.
  11. ^ Okoli, Anayo (24 February 2019). "Orji Kalu wins Abia North seat, Onyejiocha wins Reps". Vanguard Newspaper. Retrieved 31 May 2021.
  12. ^ "BREAKING: Benjamin Kalu defeats Chima Anyaso at tribunal". ABN TV. 29 August 2019. Retrieved 31 May 2021.
  13. ^ "Kalu upbeat on victory at election tribunal". Blueprint Newspaper. 8 July 2019. Retrieved 31 May 2021.
  14. ^ "Anyaso vs. Kalu: Tribunal fixes date for judgment in Abia". The Eagle Online. 1 August 2019. Retrieved 31 May 2021.
  15. ^ "Reactions trail victory of Hon. Benjamin Kalu at tribunal (Photos+Video)". ABN TV. 31 August 2019. Retrieved 31 May 2021.
  16. ^ "Ben Kalu Reacts To Appeal Court Verdict, Says "I Will Do More For My constituents & My State Govt."". ABN TV. 29 October 2019. Retrieved 31 May 2021.
  17. ^ Okogba, Emmanuel (29 October 2019). "Election Tribunal: Anyaso congratulates Kalu, assures of collective effort to uplift Bende". Vanguard Newspaper. Retrieved 31 May 2021.
  18. ^ Nwabughiogu, Levinus (12 March 2021). "House of Representatives is broke — Spokesman". Vanguard Newspaper. Retrieved 31 May 2021.
  19. ^ Akpan, Samuel (9 February 2021). "Reps spokesman: Many lawmakers are suffering due to pressure from constituents". TheCable. Retrieved 31 May 2021.
  20. ^ "No crack in House of Reps - Spokesman". The Punch Newspaper. 10 November 2019. Retrieved 31 May 2021.
  21. ^ "Benjamin Kalu bags Outstanding Rep member of the Year at the Democracy Heroes Award Africa". Leadership News.
  22. ^ "War against tuberculosis: House spokesman, Kalu receives outstanding legislative award". Tribune News.
  23. ^ "Benjamin Kalu Receives UNN Distinguished Youths Motivator Award". Igbere TV News.
  24. ^ "Hon Benjamin Kalu Honoured With Humanitarian Service Award". NASS News.
  25. ^ "Hon. Benjamin Kalu To Receive Flo FM Icons' Award as Most Impactful Lawmaker of the Year". The Street Reporters Newspaper.
source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benjamin_Kalu

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