News
Deputy Speaker Kalu, 3 Others Bag PhD in Policy and Strategic Studies
Jeph Bisi
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, along with three other individuals, has been awarded a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Policy and Strategic Studies. The degrees were conferred at the Abuja Leadership Centre (ALC) of Yakubu Gowon University, formerly the University of Abuja.
According to Prof. Philip Dahida, the Director of the Center, the academic achievements were granted after the candidates successfully completed all requirements, including the defense of their theses on August 7, 2025.
In addition to Deputy Speaker Kalu, the other recipients are Ugonna Obi Emeruwa, Abubakar Saddiq Musa, and Ahmed Umar Bolori, all of whom received doctoral degrees in the same field.
Speaking after the event, Prof. Patricia Manko Lar, the Acting Vice Chancellor of the university, praised Kalu for his commitment and determination to pursue education despite his busy schedule as a public official. She underscored the importance of Kalu’s research work and doctoral thesis titled “Government Capacity to Integrate International Climate Adaptation Strategies and Policies in Nigeria,” which aims to address significant gaps in that area.
Prof. Lar encouraged political elites to recognize the university’s capacity to deliver high-quality academic knowledge and contribute to national development.
In his remarks, Kalu expressed his gratitude to Prof. Dahida and the university community. He stated that the education he received has better equipped him to contribute to Nigeria’s growth and development. He emphasized that he was treated no differently than other students and that at no point was he asked for bribes or favors in exchange for assistance. Kalu, however vowed to apply the knowledge he gained and to strengthen legislation on climate change in Nigeria.
“I did not come to the University of Abuja to acquire a title. I came to gather tools that would aid in nation-building efforts. I focused on climate change because I know Nigeria is losing significantly due to our inability to integrate international policies and strategies into our national framework. I am declaring this university a solution hub for the multifaceted problems facing Nigeria,” he stated.
“As a lawmaker, I intends to use legislative measures to address identified gaps in the system, proposing the establishment of a Climate Adaptation Council to integrate existing bodies relevant to this issue.
“We will review current laws, possibly amending the Climate Change Act or creating new legislation that provides a stronger framework for capacity building for those addressing climate change,” he assured.
Kalu also urged Nigerians to consider local institutions for further education, emphasizing their potential to foster national growth.
“While studying abroad is an option, we must not overlook the institutions we fund as a government. Supporting local universities increases their credibility and integrity.
“I aim to inspire those who think they cannot study because they cannot obtain visas to go overseas. What they seek is available here. I have studied at institutions around the world and can attest to the quality of education provided.
“I did not attend classes as Deputy Speaker. Many students were unaware of my position until the end of my studies because I chose to blend in—wearing a cap and T-shirt, sitting at the back of the classroom to be treated like everyone else,” the lawmaker concluded.
News
Nigeria at 66: ‘We Must Not Lose Faith in Nigeria’ — FCC Boss Omidiran
Joel Ajayi
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Honorable Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has called on Nigerians to use the occasion of the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary to renew their faith in Nigeria, strengthen national unity and recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and prosperous country.
In her 66th Independence Day message, Hon. Omidiran described October 1 as more than a celebration of freedom, saying the anniversary provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, acknowledge its progress and challenges, and renew the collective determination to build a nation where every citizen has a sense of belonging.
According to the FCC Executive Chairman, the Federal Character Principle remains particularly important to the quest for national cohesion because equitable representation promotes a sense of ownership and confidence in the Nigerian project.
“Nigeria is a nation of great diversity and
enormous potential. Our responsibility is to ensure that this diversity becomes a bridge that connects us rather than a barrier that separates us. Every Nigerian deserves to feel that he or she belongs to this country and has a role to play in its development,” Omidiran said.
The FCC boss called on government institutions at all levels to remain committed to fairness, equity, accountability and inclusive governance, while urging citizens to support efforts aimed at strengthening national institutions and promoting peaceful coexistence.
“We must not lose faith in Nigeria. The challenges before us are real, but so are the opportunities and the enormous human and natural resources available to us. Every citizen has a responsibility to contribute his or her own quota to building the Nigeria we desire,” she stated.
The FCC Executive Chairman also urged young Nigerians to remain committed to acquiring knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship, innovation, sports and other productive ventures, describing the youth as critical stakeholders in the country’s future.
“As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us remember that the Nigeria we want cannot be built by government alone. It requires the commitment of all of us – leaders and citizens, young and old, from every part of the federation. Together, we can build a Nigeria where justice, fairness, opportunity and peace are available to all,” she said.
Omidiran reaffirmed the FCC’s commitment to the effective discharge of its constitutional mandate and to supporting efforts that promote equitable representation and inclusive national development across the federation.
The former lawmaker wished Nigerians at home and abroad a peaceful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary, praying for continued peace, stability, prosperity and progress for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Our differences should never be greater than our common identity as Nigerians. Let us continue to choose unity over division, service over self-interest and hope over despair. The Nigeria of our dreams is possible if we all play our part,” Omidiran said.
“On behalf of the Federal Character Commission, I congratulate all Nigerians on this 66th Independence Anniversary. May this occasion renew our patriotism, strengthen our unity and inspire us to work together for a stronger, more equitable and prosperous Nigeria. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” she added.
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