The Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has called on the United Kingdom (UK) to strengthen its support for Nigeria’s fight against corruption. Kalu made this appeal on Wednesday during the “UK-Nigeria Collaboration: A Parliamentary Strategic Dialogue” in London. The event, attended by the Deputy Leader of the British House of Lords, Rt. Hon. Lord Collins, and other members of parliament from both nations, underscored the importance of strategic partnerships between the two countries.
In his remarks, Kalu highlighted the significance of collaboration in addressing shared challenges, including corruption. He commended the enduring diplomatic ties between Nigeria and the UK, emphasizing their potential to foster economic growth and sustainable development.
“The UK-Nigeria Strategic Partnership establishes a comprehensive framework for deepening bilateral relations and achieving shared objectives,” Kalu said. He noted that the partnership spans six pillars, including growth and jobs, safe migration, and tackling global financial reforms.
Kalu urged the UK Government to intensify its efforts in facilitating the repatriation of illicit funds tied to corrupt Nigerian officials, which are currently trapped in the UK financial system. He stressed the need for enhanced mechanisms to curb illicit financial flows, strengthen anti-corruption institutions, and expedite asset recovery through bilateral agreements.
“I wish to call on the UK Government to intensify its efforts towards supporting Nigeria’s war against corruption in all its facets,” Kalu stated. “Nigeria seeks the UK’s continued support in recovering illicit funds. Enhanced collaboration should focus on setting up mechanisms to curb illicit financial flows, strengthening institutions to combat corruption, and facilitating asset recovery processes through bilateral agreements.”
Kalu, who also serves as Chairman of the House Committee on Constitution Review, urged the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to support Nigeria’s ongoing constitutional reform efforts. He highlighted key issues under deliberation, including the creation of special status seats for women in legislative assemblies, the enactment of gender-sensitive legislation, and the potential introduction of sub-national policing to address security challenges.
“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,” Kalu said. “By providing technical assistance, research expertise, and capacity-building programs, the FCDO can help ensure that these constitutional reforms are comprehensive, evidence-based, and aligned with international best practices.”
Kalu concluded by emphasizing that such support would not only strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions but also reinforce shared values of equity, justice, and security that underpin the UK-Nigeria Strategic Partnership.
The dialogue in London marks another milestone in the bilateral relationship between Nigeria and the UK, with both nations reaffirming their commitment to addressing corruption, advancing governance reforms, and fostering sustainable development.
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