In a time dominated by political discord, he has chosen the path of illumination, constructive dialogue, and meaningful reform.
A Purpose-Driven Parliamentarian
Serving as the Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s 10th House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, PhD, CFR, has infused legislative leadership with dignity and thoughtful direction.
He melds academic insight with diplomatic acumen-crafting legislation aimed not at fleeting headlines but at lasting societal impact.
His contributions span constitutional amendments, regional advancement, gender inclusivity, and peacebuilding, exemplifying leadership where intellect aligns with purposeful action.
Though his voice is measured, his influence transforms institutions.
Academic Excellence Meets Strategic Leadership
Born on May 5, 1971, in Agbamuzu, Bende LGA of Abia State, Kalu’s journey is a fusion of scholarly pursuit and public service dedication.
He earned a PhD in Public Policy and Strategic Studies from the University of Abuja, an LL.M with distinction in Terrorism and International Humanitarian Law from the University of Calabar, an MBA from Oxford Brookes University (UK), and an LL.B (Hons.) from Calabar.
Currently, he is advancing his expertise by pursuing an LL.D in Law, underscoring his belief that continuous learning is essential to effective leadership.
His professional development includes prestigious programs at Harvard Kennedy School, University of Miami, UNICRI in Italy, John Cabot University, and the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators in the UK.
These experiences have equipped him to translate intricate policy challenges into practical legislative solutions.
From Grassroots Leadership to National Influence
Kalu’s political career commenced at the grassroots level as Chairman of Bende Local Government Area, where he first demonstrated his commitment to inclusive, community-focused governance.
He subsequently served as Executive Adviser to the Governor of Abia State on Millennium Development Goals and International Relations, integrating local progress within a broader global context.
Upon his election to the House of Representatives in 2019, he arrived with a clear mission: to fortify institutions, humanize governance, and modernize legislative processes.
As Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, he became the articulate spokesperson for the 9th Assembly, championing transparency and enhancing public understanding of legislative affairs.
His peers recognized his steady leadership and intellectual clarity by electing him Deputy Speaker in the 10th Assembly.
A Prolific Lawmaker
Kalu stands among Nigeria’s most industrious legislators, having sponsored over 120 bills that address a wide array of governance sectors.
His legislative initiatives cover constitutional reforms, justice system improvements, gender equality, education, economic development, security, and public service enhancement.
Noteworthy bills include:
- The South East Development Commission (SEDC) Bill, aimed at revitalizing the region’s infrastructure and economy post-conflict.
- The State Police Bill, proposing a localized security framework tailored to Nigeria’s federal structure.
- The Special Seats for Women in Parliament Bill, designed to address gender disparities in political representation.
- The establishment bills for the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Bende, and the Federal College of Education, Bende, expanding higher education access in his constituency.
These legislative efforts are grounded in pragmatic reform and a commitment to tangible outcomes, demonstrating that visionary ideas and legislative expertise can coexist.
Leadership Extending Beyond the Legislature
As Chairman of the House Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, Kalu spearheads one of Nigeria’s most critical national projects.
His charge is to update the constitutional framework, enhance decentralization, and promote national cohesion.
In this capacity, he exemplifies a builder’s mindset-engaging diverse stakeholders, balancing regional interests, and fostering inclusivity in constitutional discourse.
Internationally, he represents Nigeria on several prominent platforms:
- Chairman, ECOWAS Parliament Committee on Administration, Finance and Budget
- Member, Pan-African Parliament
- Steering Committee Member, WTO Parliamentary Conference
- Member, Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU)
These roles amplify his advocacy for governance reforms and Africa’s participation in global policymaking.
Private Sector Experience Informing Public Service
Kalu’s governance approach is enriched by his extensive private-sector experience.
He has held directorships at companies spanning three continents, including Solcarbon SA-NV (Belgium), Ozbok Australia PTY Ltd, and Belcarbon SA (Belgium), sharpening his understanding of organizational discipline, financial accountability, and strategic expansion.
Currently, as Principal Arbitrator at Silk Partners LLP (Nigeria), he bridges the realms of business law and public policy while mentoring emerging legal and policy professionals.
Championing Peace in the South-East
Beyond legislative achievements, Kalu’s most enduring contribution may be his moral leadership.
Through the Peace in the South-East Project (PISE-P), he brings together community leaders, traditional authorities, youth, and religious groups to foster dialogue and non-violent solutions to regional insecurity.
PISE-P’s core message is profound: true peace arises not from the mere absence of conflict but from mutual understanding.
This initiative has become a benchmark for community-led conflict resolution, transforming political engagement into a process of reconciliation rather than confrontation.
Where others erect barriers, he cultivates conversation.
A Legacy of Compassion
For over twenty years, the Benjamin Kalu Foundation has quietly impacted lives across Nigeria through programs focused on healthcare, education, and empowerment for women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
The foundation embodies his belief that effective representation extends beyond legislative halls to the communities that elect their leaders.
This blend of public responsibility and personal empathy has earned Kalu widespread respect as a legislator.
Recognition and Respect
In 2024, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, honored Kalu with the Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) award, acknowledging his national service and dedication to democratic progress.
Yet, Kalu often reflects that his greatest honor is the confidence placed in him by the people of Bende.
At 54, he stands as a bridge between generations-a lawmaker fluent in the language of reform and the cadence of compassion.
