Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has urged the government of United Kingdom (UK) to support Nigeria’s fight against corruption.
He made the call while during his speech in an event tagged “UK-Nigeria Collaboration: A Parliamentary Strategic Dialogue” which attracted the presence of the Deputy Leader of the British House of Lords, Rt. Hon. Lord Collins, among other members of parliament from Nigeria and UK, which held in London on Wednesday.
Kalu, in a statement by his chief press secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, emphasised the importance of collaboration between the two countries in tackling corruption amongst other challenges.
He commended the diplomatic ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, highlighting the potential for deepened economic relationships.
Referencing the partnership between Nigeria and the UK as a testament to shared values and mutual interests, Kalu added that by deepening collaboration across these sectors, both countries will unlock the opportunities for sustainable growth and development.
He said: “The UK-Nigeria Strategic Partnership establishes a comprehensive framework for deepening bilateral relations and achieving shared objectives. This collaboration spans six pillars: Growth and Jobs: Through the Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP), both nations will drive mutual economic growth by addressing market barriers, boosting two-way trade, and fostering sustainable investments in manufacturing, agriculture, and energy.
“Both nations commit to facilitating safe migration, tackling visa abuse, and operationalizing prisoner transfer agreements while advancing reforms in global financial systems.
“I wish to call on the UK Government to intensify its efforts towards supporting Nigeria’s war against corruption in all its facets. One of the ways the UK can support this fight is to ease the process of repatriation of monies seized from Nigerian officials that are trapped in the UK financial system. Incidentally, I am here with the Chairman of the Nigerian Parliament Committee on Financial Crimes and he will be happy to continue the conversation with relevant officials.
“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. Facilitating asset recovery processes through bilateral agreements”.
Kalu, who is the chairman, Nigeria’s House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review and an advocate for political inclusion, also called on the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to support the work of the panel.
“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. Key issues under deliberation—such as the creation of special status seats for women in legislative assemblies, the enactment of more gendersensitive legislation, and the potential introduction of sub-national policing—are pivotal to fostering inclusive governance and addressing the nation’s security challenges.
“Thus, I implore the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to extend tailored support to the Committee’s critical work. 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.
“Such support would not only strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions but also reinforce shared values of equity, justice, and security, which underpin the UK-Nigeria Strategic Partnership. This collaboration would demonstrate a profound commitment to empowering marginalized groups, ensuring safer communities, and fortifying Nigeria’s legislative framework for future generations,” he stated.
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