Kalu Seeks US’ Delaware State Partnership

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has called for partnership with the State of Delaware in the United States to support Nigeria’s efforts in promoting gender equity, educational and health reforms.

Kalu made the call while hosting a delegation from the State of Delaware, United States of America, led by the immediate past Governor, Bethany Hall-Long, who paid him a courtesy visit at the National Assembly on Thursday.

Addressing the delegation, Kalu, who chairs the Committee on Constitution Review, said that central to their work is the Special Reserved Seats for Women Bill, which seeks to guarantee women’s representation in the legislative chambers through constitutionally reserved seats.

He also stated that, in addition to women’s political participation, the committee is working on several critical constitutional reforms, such as decentralising policing and security, and strengthening local government autonomy to bring governance closer to the people.

Kalu, in a statement by his special assistant on press affairs, Udora Orizu, said Nigeria stands ready to collaborate with the State of Delaware in building sustainable programs that advance mutual interests in women’s empowerment, education, public health, and community development.

He commended the immediate past Governor for her interest in understanding Nigeria’s legislative structure and parliamentary dynamics, expressing optimism that the engagement will transform acquaintances into partners and visits into lasting relationships.

“It is with immense pleasure and honour that I welcome you to the People’s House, Nigeria’s House of Representatives. Your presence here today serves as a bridge between two proud democratic traditions, separated by the Atlantic Ocean but united by shared values of representative governance, public service, and the conviction that democracy works best when it serves the interests of all.

“Your Excellency, your journey of service inspires us greatly. From the Delaware Legislature to the office of Lieutenant Governor, and ultimately to the governorship of your beloved state, a tenure spanning two terms, you have demonstrated that leadership is not about titles, but about impact.

“You have broken barriers, championed the vulnerable, and shown that effective governance requires both courage and compassion. Delaware’s gain has been America’s example, and today, we are privileged to learn from your experience. Your Excellency, your visit comes at a particularly opportune moment in Nigeria’s democratic evolution.

“As Chairman of the House Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, I have the privilege of leading one of the most consequential legislative undertakings of our generation, the work of making our supreme law more responsive to the aspirations of all Nigerians, particularly those who have been historically marginalised.

“Central to our work is the Special Reserved Seats for Women Bill, a transformative proposal that seeks to guarantee women’s representation in our legislative chambers through constitutionally reserved seats. We recognise that equality delayed is equality denied, and that waiting for cultural attitudes to evolve organically is a luxury our nation cannot afford,” Kalu stated.

Speaking earlier, Governor Hall-Long said the visit aims to seek a partnership with the Deputy Speaker on women’s rights & gender inclusion, as well as post-conflict and IDP work, as these issues align with her advocacy.