society
Appraising Ben Kalu’s Relentless Efforts at the Pan-African Parliament By Philip Agbese
Appraising Ben Kalu’s Relentless Efforts at the Pan-African Parliament
By Philip Agbese
In Africa’s modern political landscape, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu stands out as a leader who exemplifies visionary leadership and diplomatic tact. As Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives and head of Nigeria’s delegation to the Pan-African Parliament (PAP), his tenure has been marked by a relentless drive to strengthen cooperation among African nations, propel the PAP’s objectives, and foster the emergence of a new generation of African leaders.
Through his work, Ben Kalu has embodied the core values of African unity, cooperation, and progress while also positioning the PAP as a vehicle for true continental integration. The Pan-African Parliament, established in 2004 as one of the African Union’s nine organs, serves as a symbolic and practical forum for unifying Africa’s disparate nations around common goals.
Based in Midrand, South Africa, the PAP provides a platform for debate, decision-making, and policy formulation aimed at addressing the continent’s socio-economic challenges. Initially established with an advisory mandate, the institution seeks full legislative powers to promote human rights, democracy, and good governance. The PAP’s vision is profound: empowering Africans, including grassroots organisations, to participate in shaping Africa’s future and addressing its most pressing problems.
While some argue that Ben Kalu isn’t the sole deputy speaker the Southeast region has produced, his exceptional track record unequivocally positions him as the most results-driven and impactful Nigerian leader since the inception of the Fourth Republic, which began in 1999. This marks a significant shift for Nigeria, transitioning from military rule to democratic governance.
Ben Kalu’s leadership stands out, demonstrating a unique blend of vision, expertise, and dedication. His outstanding performance and significant contributions have undoubtedly set him apart from his predecessors. By leveraging his expertise and diplomatic prowess, Kalu has consistently advanced the interests of the Southeast region and Nigeria as a whole.
It is against this backdrop that Kalu’s contributions become particularly remarkable. His diplomatic skills, intellectual prowess, and firm commitment to PAP’s goals have helped bridge divides between member states, enabling greater knowledge-sharing and policy alignment. Under his leadership, PAP has seen increased collaboration among its members, vital in an era where Africa must present a united front to tackle global challenges such as economic inequality, political instability, and climate change.
Kalu’s tenure as the leader of the Nigerian delegation has witnessed a palpable enhancement in diplomatic collaboration within the PAP. One of the most critical roles of PAP is to act as a forum for discussions on common problems, and here, Kalu’s leadership has been pivotal. His ability to foster meaningful dialogue among member states is not merely a reflection of his position but evidence of his diplomatic skill and deep understanding of the Pan-African cause.
Kalu has made it a priority to emphasise the importance of African unity. By encouraging member states to share experiences, particularly in areas such as governance, human rights, and economic development, he has helped create a culture of openness and shared learning within the institution.
Moreover, Kalu’s diplomatic finesse has proven instrumental in fostering peace and security within the continent. The West African sub-region, in particular, has faced persistent challenges related to political instability, terrorism, and economic disparity. In this context, Kalu’s efforts to galvanise cooperation among West African PAP members have been critical.
His interventions, emphasising collaboration over confrontation, have brought renewed hope to the region. Beyond diplomacy, Kalu’s leadership has also inspired a new generation of African leaders. In a continent where leadership often faces scrutiny due to governance issues and corruption, Kalu’s exemplary record stands out.
His firm commitment to transparency, accountability, and democracy offers a model for aspiring leaders, both within and outside Nigeria. Kalu’s journey to political prominence, marked by intellectual rigour and parliamentary acumen, sends a powerful message: African politics need not be dominated by populism or divisive rhetoric but by leaders capable of tackling complex policy issues with insight and integrity.
His achievements signal a promising shift toward enlightened and thoughtful African leadership, valuing collaboration, unity, and long-term developmental goals. This is not to say the road ahead for PAP and African leaders is devoid of challenges. However, Kalu’s leadership has proven that, through patient negotiation and shared purpose, African nations can come together to solve their problems.
His efforts have shown PAP’s potential to address the continent’s challenges and empower Africans from the grassroots up. One of PAP’s significant aspects is its ambition to evolve into a fully-fledged legislative body. Currently, PAP functions as an advisory organ, providing recommendations to the AU Assembly and Council of Ministers.
However, the vision for PAP is to one day exercise legislative powers over areas of common interest, including human rights, democracy, and good governance. Kalu’s contributions toward this goal cannot be overstated. As a parliamentarian with vast experience in Nigerian politics, he brings a wealth of knowledge on legislative processes. His efforts to advocate for PAP’s transition into a body with legislative powers have been persistent. By promoting discussions around this issue and galvanising support from other delegations, Kalu has helped keep the vision of a legislative PAP alive.
However, the path toward full legislative powers is fraught with challenges. Many member states are still wary of ceding legislative authority to a supranational body, fearing it might infringe on their sovereignty. Yet, Kalu’s approach has been one of balance; he recognises these concerns but believes a legislative PAP would enhance, rather than diminish, member states’ sovereignty by ensuring African problems are addressed through African solutions.
Moreover, the evolving nature of the global political landscape, characterised by increasing regionalism and multilateral cooperation, makes PAP’s legislative ambitions even more relevant. In a world where economic blocs like the European Union have shown the power of supranational institutions in driving development, PAP has the potential to become Africa’s legislative powerhouse, promoting harmonised policies that tackle the continent’s most pressing issues.
Perhaps the most fitting description of Rt. Hon. Ben Kalu is “a true champion of African unity and progress.” His commitment to the Pan-African ideal is not just rhetorical but deeply practical and exudes non-political affiliation. He understands that Africa’s strength lies in its unity and that PAP is uniquely positioned to harness that strength.
Through his efforts, Kalu has emphasised the importance of cooperation, both within PAP and across the African Union’s organs. His intellectual prowess and astute parliamentary skills are invaluable assets to the West African bloc in PAP, as he continues to advocate for policies benefiting not only Nigeria but the entire region. In doing so, he has earned widespread admiration as a visionary leader capable of navigating the complex waters of African diplomacy.
Moreover, Kalu’s relentless advocacy for African development, intellectual agility, and deep-seated belief in Africa’s potential position him as a towering figure in African politics. It is no exaggeration to describe him as an intellectual juggernaut, a leader whose vision transcends immediate concerns to focus on Africa’s long-term prosperity.
In conclusion, Rt. Hon. Ben Kalu’s leadership at the Pan-African Parliament represents hope for the future of African politics. Through diplomatic skills, relentless advocacy for collaboration, and inspiring leadership, Kalu has advanced PAP’s goals and set a high standard for future African leaders. His work embodies the principles upon which the Pan-African Parliament was founded: unity, progress, and shared commitment to solving Africa’s challenges through dialogue and collective action.
As the Pan-African Parliament continues its transformative journey toward becoming a fully-fledged legislative body, Ben Kalu’s pivotal role will persist in shaping its trajectory. His exceptional ability to navigate Africa’s intricate and dynamic political landscape while inspiring a new generation of visionary leaders ensures his profound influence will resonate for generations.
In a continent marked by rich yet complex history, leaders like Kalu, who champion not only their nation’s interests but also the broader aspirations of the entire continent, are indispensable. Their visionary leadership and strong commitment to Africa’s progress will help harness the continent’s untapped potential.
With leaders like Kalu at the helm, Africa stands poised on the threshold of a new era of unprecedented growth and development. In essence, Ben Kalu’s legacy will continue to illuminate the path toward a brighter future for Africa. His impact on the continent’s political and economic landscape will undoubtedly endure, cementing his place as one of Africa’s most visionary and influential leaders.
This intervention was contributed by Agbese MHR, a member of the Pan-African Parliament writing from Agila, Benue State.
Banwo Questions Bwala’s Credibility After Al Jazeera Interview
Public commentator, Dr. Ope Banwo, has criticised Daniel Bwala, the Presidential Spokesperson on Policy Communication for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following a contentious interview on Al Jazeera, describing the appearance as damaging to the credibility of Nigeria’s public communication.
Bwala had appeared on a programme hosted by journalist Mehdi Hasan, where he faced a series of questions about past statements attributed to him. During the exchange, Hasan presented video clips of previous remarks by the government spokesman and asked him to reconcile them with his responses during the interview.
The exchange, which has since circulated widely online, drew attention after Bwala appeared to dispute statements that were subsequently played back during the programme.
Reacting to the development, Banwo said the episode reflected poorly on Nigeria’s representation on international media platforms.
According to him, the availability of digital records and online archives means public officials must be prepared to defend their past statements whenever they appear on global television.
“In the era of instant fact-checking, any public figure going on international television must assume that every previous statement can be easily retrieved,” Banwo said.
He added that the controversy surrounding the interview was particularly troubling because the contradictions presented during the programme were supported with video evidence.
Banwo noted that while political interviews can be confrontational, government representatives should expect tough questioning when appearing before international audiences.
The founder of Naija Lives Matters also expressed concern over Bwala’s reaction during the interview, especially his claim that he was not informed he would be required to defend his personal record.
“A government spokesman should never be surprised by questions about his own public statements,” Banwo said.
During the programme, Bwala also responded to criticism of Nigeria’s governance challenges by arguing that similar problems exist in other parts of the world.
However, Banwo argued that such comparisons do not address the specific issues raised about Nigeria.
According to him, the episode should serve as a reminder of the importance of preparation and credibility when Nigerian officials appear before international media platforms.
The interview has continued to generate reactions across social media and political commentary circles, with observers debating both the conduct of the interview and the implications for Nigeria’s global image.
society
THE IMPERIAL GOLD COIN OF THE UNITED KINGDOM OF ATLANTIS UNVEILED AS SYMBOL OF SOVEREIGNTY AND HERITAGE
THE IMPERIAL GOLD COIN OF THE UNITED KINGDOM OF ATLANTIS UNVEILED AS SYMBOL OF SOVEREIGNTY AND HERITAGE
_[Atlantis City, United Kingdom of Atlantis – March 2026]_ – The United Kingdom of Atlantis proudly announces the introduction of its *Imperial Gold Coin*, a magnificent emblem of sovereignty, authority, and imperial heritage. The exquisite gold coin has been crafted to represent the nation’s regal tradition, economic strength, and the visionary leadership of its monarch.
The centerpiece of the coin features the dignified portrait of *His Imperial Majesty, Professor Solomon Wining*, depicted in full royal regalia. Crowned with a majestic golden crown and adorned with intricately crafted ornaments, the portrait embodies honor, wisdom, and noble leadership befitting a sovereign ruler. The depiction celebrates the monarch’s reign, which is associated with wisdom, development, and the pursuit of justice.
The golden coin itself signifies *prosperity, stability, and the enduring legacy* of the Atlantis Kingdom. Gold, historically a universal symbol of power, wealth, and permanence, reflects the strength and vision of the kingdom’s leadership and its aspirations for lasting greatness.
Encircling the royal portrait is the carefully engraved inscription *“United Kingdom of Atlantis”*, reinforcing the state’s identity any the authority of its sovereign ruler. The lower rim of the coin prominently displays the name *Solomon Wining*, commemorating the monarch whose leadership is linked to noble governance and national advancement.
The phrase *“Gold Coin”* highlights not only the currency’s intrinsic value but also its symbolic significance as a representation of the kingdom’s economic structure and royal treasury. Beyond its aesthetic elegance, the coin serves as a *mark of sovereignty*, a seal of authority, and a reminder of the royal institution governing the United Kingdom of Atlantis.
The Imperial Gold Coin represents:
– *Unity* among citizens,
– *Loyalty* to the crown,
– A vision of a kingdom built upon *justice, prosperity, and noble leadership*.
Every detail—from the engraved crown to the polished golden surface—makes the coin a timeless emblem of imperial prestige and national pride. It stands as both a symbol of wealth and a monument to the legacy of royal leadership, reminding all who behold it of the enduring power and majesty of the United Kingdom of Atlantis.
The United Kingdom of Atlantis is a sovereign nation dedicated to upholding traditions of regal governance, cultural heritage, and economic prosperity, guided by the wisdom of its imperial leadership.
_Notes to Editors_:
The Imperial Gold Coin is intended for commemorative and symbolic purposes, representing the nation’s imperial heritage and royal authority.
Ajadi Visits Ibadan Chief Imam, Receives Blessings
The leading gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to the Grand Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Imam Abdul Ganiy Abubakir Agbotomokekere, at his Oja’ba residence in Ibadan, where discussions centred on leadership, integrity, and the role of prayers in governance.
Ajadi, who described the revered Islamic cleric as a spiritual pillar in Oyo State, said his visit was to seek prayers and wise counsel as he continues consultations ahead of the 2027 governorship race.
While addressing the Chief Imam, Ajadi commended his consistent prayers for Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria, noting that religious leaders remain critical stakeholders in nation building.
“I have come to seek your prayers and spiritual blessings because of your important role in promoting peace, unity and moral guidance in our society,” Ajadi said.
“I also want to appreciate your continuous prayers for the progress of Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole. My prayer is that Almighty Allah will continue to grant you sound health and long life to witness many more Ramadan seasons on earth.”
Speaking further, the PDP gubernatorial aspirant emphasised the need for leadership driven by compassion, fairness and accountability, stressing that his political aspiration is rooted in service to the people.
“My ambition is not just about occupying an office but about serving the people with sincerity and fear of God. We must continue to encourage politics that will bring development and improve the welfare of our people,” he added.
While speaking with journalists after the visit, Ajadi also assured the people of Oyo State and Nigerians at large that the internal crisis and political tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have been brought under control by the grace of God. He expressed optimism that the party would emerge victorious in all elective positions in the 2027 general elections.
In his response, Sheikh Agbotomokekere advised the governorship hopeful to remain focused on the principles of good governance, warning against corrupt practices often associated with politics.
The respected Islamic scholar noted that while politics is practised differently by individuals, only leaders with integrity and fear of God can truly deliver the dividends of democracy.
“Politics is practised by different kinds of people. Some play politics in a corrupt way, while others practise it with sincerity. My prayer is that you will be among those who will practise democracy in the right way if you become governor,” the Chief Imam said.
He reminded the aspirant that human ambition can only be fulfilled by divine approval, stressing that ultimate power belongs to God.
“Whoever is seeking a position should know that only Allah can make such an ambition come true. Whether a person becomes famous or remains unknown is also by the will of Allah,” he said.
Offering prayers for the politician, the cleric added: “Many people may be struggling for a position meant for one person, and it is only God who knows the rightful person. I pray that Almighty Allah will make you the chosen one among all the contenders.”
Using a football analogy to further illustrate his point, the cleric advised Ajadi to be wary of political distractions and misleading influences.
“On the football field, sometimes spectators believe they understand the game more than the players themselves. I pray that you will not be misled by so-called political gurus and that God will guide your steps aright,” he said.
Sheikh Agbotomokekere, the 18th Chief Imam of Ibadanland, is widely respected across South-Western Nigeria for his scholarship, spiritual leadership and advocacy for peaceful coexistence among religious and political groups.
Observers say the visit forms part of Ajadi’s ongoing consultations with key stakeholders, traditional rulers and religious leaders as political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the next electoral cycle in Oyo State.
The cleric offered special prayers for peace in Oyo State, successful leadership, and continued unity among the people despite political and religious differences.
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