The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has pledged unwavering support for initiatives aimed at enhancing education in Nigeria.
He made this commitment during an interactive session in Abuja with a delegation from the University of Calabar (Unical), Cross River State. The delegation, led by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Florence Obi, and the Provost of the Post-Graduate School, Professor Enyong Ubana, informed the Deputy Speaker of the university’s upcoming 50th anniversary and convocation lecture, where Kalu will serve as the guest lecturer.
Reflecting on his time at his alma mater, Kalu credited the University of Calabar for instilling in him values of hard work, competition, and patriotism.
“As Deputy Speaker, I recognize the critical role education plays in shaping the future of our nation,” Kalu stated. “I’m committed to supporting initiatives that promote access to quality education, and I believe Unical is uniquely positioned to lead in this effort.”
Kalu expressed pride in his connection to the university, acknowledging its transformative impact on his life and career. He also highlighted his dedication to empowering young students, particularly law students, through sponsored awards in key legal fields such as Jurisprudence, Commercial Law, and Constitutional Law.
The Vice Chancellor, Professor Florence Obi, lauded Kalu as a “special gift” from the University of Calabar to Nigeria, emphasizing his legislative accomplishments and contributions to national development.
“Today, we decorate you as an ambassador of the university, one of the few carefully selected for their outstanding achievements,” Obi said.
Honored by the recognition, Kalu vowed to uphold the values instilled in him by the university and to continue contributing to its legacy.
He urged the institution to play an active role in Nigeria’s ongoing constitutional review through research on critical issues like state policing.
As part of his commitment to the university, Kalu affirmed his participation in the 50th-anniversary celebrations and convocation lectures. “Considering the significance of this milestone, I will be part of it till the end. Let us work together to achieve the goals of this anniversary,” he said.
Kalu’s dedication to advancing education, coupled with his achievements as a distinguished alumnus, underscores his vision for a brighter future for Nigeria’s younger generation.
