Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, CFR
Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives
Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu has emerged as one of the most prominent voices for legislative reform and South-East development in Nigeria’s 10th House of Representatives. As Deputy Speaker, he has combined parliamentary leadership with an active legislative agenda focused on governance, justice, economic development and regional inclusion.
One of his most significant legislative contributions is his sponsorship and advocacy for the establishment of the South-East Development Commission, which was subsequently signed into law. The Commission provides an institutional framework for addressing the region’s infrastructure, environmental and socio-economic development challenges.
Kalu has also sponsored more than 100 bills and participated actively in motions and legislative interventions covering areas such as public institutions, security, education, gender equity, justice-sector reform, business development and constitutional reform.
His approach to legislative leadership has been strongly connected to national cohesion and the equitable distribution of development opportunities, while his work has positioned the South East more prominently within national policy conversations.
The Daily Times of Nigeria honours Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, CFR, as Lawmaker of the Year for impactful legislation, institutional advocacy and sustained leadership in advancing good governance and the development of the South-East.