Benjamin Kalu Advocates UK-Nigeria Strategic Partnership to Combat Corruption, Drive Development
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu has encouraged the government of the United Kingdom (UK) to support Nigeria’s battle against corruption.
He made the demand during his remarks in an event tagged “UK-Nigeria Collaboration: A Parliamentary Strategic Dialogue” which attracted the presence of the Deputy Leader of the British House of Lords, Rt. Hon. Lord Collins among other members of parliament from Nigeria and UK in London on Wednesday.
Kalu stressed the significance of partnership between the two countries in fighting corruption amongst other concerns.
He complimented the diplomatic connections between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, noting the potential for increased commercial relationships.
Referencing the cooperation between Nigeria and the UK as a testament to similar values and mutual interests, Kalu stated that by strengthening engagement across these sectors, both countries will unlock prospects for sustainable growth and development.
He said: “The UK-Nigeria Strategic Partnership establishes a comprehensive framework for deepening bilateral relations and achieving shared objectives. This partnership encompasses six pillars: Growth and Jobs: Through the Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP), both nations will stimulate reciprocal economic growth by removing market obstacles, enhancing two-way trade, and supporting sustainable investments in manufacturing, agriculture, and energy.
“Both nations commit to facilitating safe migration, tackling visa abuse, and operationalizing prisoner transfer agreements while advancing reforms in global financial systems.
“I wish to call on the UK Government to intensify its efforts towards supporting Nigeria’s war against corruption in all its facets. One of the ways the UK may support this struggle is to ease the process of repatriation of cash seized from Nigerian officials that are stranded in the UK financial system. Incidentally, I am here with the Chairman of the Nigerian Parliament Committee on Financial Crimes and he will be pleased to continue the conversation with necessary officials.
“Nigeria seeks the UK’s continued support in recovering illicit funds. Enhanced coordination should focus on: Setting up procedures to limit illegal financial flows. Strengthening structures to resist corruption. Facilitating asset recovery processes through bilateral agreements”.
Kalu who is the Chairman, Nigeria’s House Committee on Constitution Review and an advocate for political inclusivity has called on the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to support the work of the panel.
“As Chair of the House Committee on Constitution Review, I acknowledge the monumental task of refining Nigeria’s constitutional framework to reflect the evolving needs of its people. Key issues under deliberation—such as the creation of special status seats for women in legislative assemblies, the enactment of more gender-sensitive legislation, and the potential introduction of sub-national policing—are pivotal to fostering inclusive governance and addressing the nation’s security challenges.
“Thus, I implore the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to extend tailored support to the Committee’s critical work. By offering technical assistance, research expertise, and capacity-building programs, the FCDO can help guarantee that these constitutional amendments are thorough, evidence-based, and consistent with worldwide best practices.
“Such support would not only strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions but also reinforce shared values of equity, justice, and security, which underpin the UK-Nigeria Strategic Partnership. This collaboration will reflect a strong commitment to strengthening underrepresented people, guaranteeing safer neighborhoods, and fortifying Nigeria’s legislative framework for future generations”, he said.
