The Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has issued a passionate charge to members of the Nigerian delegation attending the 153rd Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly, calling on them to represent the country with unwavering distinction and national pride.
Kalu, who assumed leadership of the delegation in Arusha, Tanzania, following the departure of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, delivered the charge during a official dinner he hosted for delegates on Wednesday evening.
Addressing lawmakers and parliamentary officials, Kalu emphasized Nigeria’s strategic standing within the global parliamentary body, highlighting the country’s substantial influence and voting power.
“Nigeria is an important country in the IPU, with 22 votes. Our Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, currently serves on the Executive Committee and has made invaluable contributions to the Union,” Kalu stated.
He tasked all delegates with taking their assignments seriously by ensuring consistent attendance at various committee sessions and actively participating in the Assembly’s plenary debates and strategic discussions.
“Nigeria has a strong voice in the international community. When we take a position, others often look to us for guidance and direction. We must uphold that reputation at all times. I have no doubt that this delegation, comprising distinguished senators, members of the House of Representatives, and National Assembly staff, will do the nation proud,” he added.
In a vote of thanks, Senator Osita Ngwu, former Senate Minority Whip representing Enugu West Senatorial District, commended Kalu for his proactive leadership and dedication to fostering unity among delegates during international assignments.
“This has been your practice over the years,” Ngwu remarked. “Whenever we travel for international parliamentary engagements, you make an effort to bring us together. For some of us, this may be the only opportunity during the trip for the entire delegation to sit together. It helps us build team spirit and gives direction to our mission. I thank you for your consistent leadership.”
The dinner event also provided a platform for diplomatic engagement, featuring the attendance of the Speaker of the Australian Parliament, Milton Dick.
The Nigerian delegation at the 153rd IPU Assembly features a prominent team of lawmakers and administrative personnel. Led initially by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, with Deputy Speaker Kalu serving as Deputy Leader, the legislative contingent includes Senators Osita Ngwu, Ranti Adebule, and Titus Zam, alongside House of Representatives members Mark Esset, Uche Okonkwo, Bello Kaoje, Olamiju Alao-Akala, Zainab Gimba, Omosede Igbinedion, and Billy Osawaru.
The diplomatic and administrative team includes Nigeria’s Ambassador to Tanzania, Bolanle Mohammed; Permanent Secretary for IPU and Protocol at the National Assembly, Mrs. Fortune Ihua; Director of IPU at the National Assembly, Udo Ogbu Umekwe; officials from the Inter-Parliamentary Unit and National Assembly Library; and staff from the Nigerian Embassy in Tanzania.
