About
Rep Benjamin Okezie Kalu, a distinguished Nigerian Politician and accomplished Businessman, currently serves as the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives of Nigeria. Born on May 5 in Agbamuzu, Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, he represents the Bende Federal Constituency with a steadfast commitment to national development.
Education & Professional Development
Rt. Hon Kalu boasts an impressive academic and professional trajectory. He holds a Master of Business Administration from Oxford Brookes University and a Bachelor of Law LL.B (Hons) from the University of Calabar. Called to the Nigerian Bar after his studies at the Nigeria Law School in Enugu, he has continuously enhanced his expertise through various certifications:
- Certificate in Migration and Human Rights from John Cabot University, Italy
- Certificate in Illicit Trade from the University of Groningen, Netherlands
- Certificate in Governance & Development from Miami Herbert Business School, USA
- Certificate in Environmental Crimes from UNICRI, Italy
- Diploma in International Commercial Arbitration from CIARB, UK
His fellowships with prestigious organizations like OSHAssociation UK, CIARB UK, Nigeria Bar Association, and the Institute of Administrative Managers highlight his dedication to professional excellence.
Legislative Contributions & Achievements
Since 2019, Rt. Hon Kalu has been a dynamic member of the National Assembly. He has actively participated in over 22 crucial motions, contributing to national development and public well-being. Key areas of his legislative focus include:
- Environmental protection
- Investigating governmental agency failures
- Promoting the welfare of Nigerians globally
He has been instrumental in amending acts such as the Acts Authentication Act and the Nigerian Communications Act, and in proposing new legislative initiatives like the Federal Capital Territory Education Resource Centre and the National Inspector-General for Tax Crimes Commission.
Humanitarian & Community Engagement
Rt. Hon Kalu’s commitment to society extends beyond politics. He founded the Benjamin Kalu Foundation, focusing on empowering youth, women, and people with disabilities. His role in the Sudan Darfur Project with the UNHCR and the Peace in the South East Project showcases his dedication to humanitarian and peace initiatives.
Awards & Recognition
Rt. Hon Kalu’s outstanding service has earned him numerous awards, including:
- UNN Distinguished National Youths Motivator Award (2018)
- Most Valuable Parliamentarian, OrderPaper (2023)
- Outstanding Rep Member of the Year, Democracy Heroes Award Africa (2022)
- Zik’s Award of Excellence on Civic Engagement (2021)
- South East and Abia State Federal Lawmaker of the Year, Independent Newspapers
…and many more, recognizing his leadership, legislative excellence, and humanitarian efforts.