Newsglobal.com.ng
In a resounding and compelling address at the Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly, Dr. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, showcased Nigeria’s unwavering dedication to Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16) – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. Drawing from the nation’s rich history, Dr. Kalu painted a vivid picture of Nigeria’s commitment, underlining a multi-faceted approach that encompasses not only legislative strides but also comprehensive policies and initiatives aimed at fostering a brighter future for the nation.
Dr. Benjamin Okezie Kalu
As the assembly hall filled with distinguished delegates from across the globe, Dr. Kalu began his speech by emphasizing the historical underpinnings of Nigeria’s stance on SDG 16. He spoke of a nation that had experienced the tumultuous waves of conflict and instability, a past that has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s collective consciousness. This profound history, he argued, has made Nigeria uniquely attuned to the imperatives of peace, justice, and strong institutions.
“Nigeria’s commitment to SDG 16 is not merely an abstract concept but a lived reality,” Dr. Kalu asserted, his words resonating with conviction. “It transcends the legislative framework; it is a holistic approach, permeating every facet of our national life.”
Dr. Benjamin Okezie Kalu
The Deputy Speaker proceeded to provide concrete examples of Nigeria’s commitment in action. He pointed to the groundbreaking passage of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), a landmark legislation that overhauled the Nigerian oil and gas sector. The PIA, he explained, was a clear demonstration of Nigeria’s resolve to enhance transparency and accountability in a sector critical to the nation’s economy. The reform, he contended, also sought to strengthen institutional frameworks and attract much-needed investment.
In tandem with this, Dr. Kalu highlighted the Climate Change Act, a pioneering piece of legislation aimed at aligning Nigeria with global standards for environmental protection and sustainability. This law, he argued, was emblematic of Nigeria’s commitment to combating climate change and fostering innovation in the face of environmental challenges.
Dr. Benjamin Okezie Kalu
Undoubtedly, one of the most remarkable achievements Dr. Kalu spotlighted was the amendment of Nigeria’s electoral act in 2022. This move ushered in a new era of electoral integrity through the deployment of cutting-edge technology, significantly reducing post-election crises and strengthening the foundations of democracy.
As he drew his speech to a close, Dr. Kalu delivered a powerful call to action. He urged fellow representatives at the Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly to remain steadfast and united in the pursuit of SDG 16. “Crisis in any part of the world is indeed a crisis for all,” he stated, emphasizing the interconnectedness of global challenges and the shared responsibility of nations to contribute to peace, justice, and strong institutions.
Dr. Benjamin Okezie Kalu’s speech, delivered with eloquence and passion, left an indelible mark on the assembly. It portrayed Nigeria as a nation not merely paying lip service to SDG 16 but as one that had embarked on a transformative journey, underpinned by concrete legislative actions and a deep commitment to a more peaceful, just, and resilient world.
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