The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has urged the United Kingdom (UK) government to enhance its support for Nigeria’s fight against corruption.
He made this appeal during his speech at the “UK-Nigeria Collaboration: A Parliamentary Strategic Dialogue” event, which was held in London on Wednesday. The event saw the participation of the Deputy Leader of the British House of Lords, Rt. Hon. Lord Collins, along with other members of parliament from both Nigeria and the UK.
Kalu stressed the significance of collaboration between the two countries in addressing corruption and other shared challenges. He praised the strong diplomatic ties between Nigeria and the UK, emphasizing the potential for strengthening economic relationships.
Highlighting the partnership between the two nations as a reflection of shared values and mutual interests, Kalu noted that deepening collaboration across various sectors would unlock opportunities for sustainable growth and development. He said, “The UK-Nigeria Strategic Partnership establishes a comprehensive framework for enhancing bilateral relations and achieving shared goals.
This collaboration focuses on six key areas: Growth and Jobs, through the Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP), where both countries will work to remove market barriers, increase trade, and promote sustainable investments in manufacturing, agriculture, and energy.”
Kalu also pointed out that both nations are committed to facilitating safe migration, addressing visa abuse, and advancing prisoner transfer agreements, while pursuing reforms in global financial systems.
Further addressing the issue of corruption, Kalu called on the UK government to step up its efforts in supporting Nigeria’s fight. He suggested that one way the UK could assist is by easing the process of repatriating funds seized from Nigerian officials that are currently trapped in the UK financial system. “I am here with the Chairman of the Nigerian Parliament Committee on Financial Crimes, and he would be happy to continue discussions with the relevant UK officials,” Kalu added.
In his role as Chairman of Nigeria’s House Committee on Constitution Review and as an advocate for political inclusion, Kalu also called on the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to support the ongoing work of the constitutional review panel.
