Deputy Speaker Kalu Advocates Gender Equality, Constitutional Reforms, and Peacebuilding in South East
In a landmark development for Nigeria’s healthcare and governance sectors, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has commended the Federal Government and National Assembly for approving a $200 million investment in the country’s health system. The move comes in response to the exit of USAID from Nigeria’s healthcare funding landscape.
UNDP Praises Nigeria’s Swift Response to Healthcare Funding Gap
Ms. Ahunna Eziakonwa, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Director of UNDP’s Regional Bureau for Africa, described the action as a bold step toward national self-reliance and a model for other African nations.
“While some countries were panicking over donor withdrawals, Nigeria took decisive action,” Eziakonwa said. “When USAID pulled out, the Assembly voted $200 million to fill the gap. That’s what responsible governance looks like.
She further stated that this commitment reinforces the government’s responsibility to its citizens and sends a powerful message of leadership across Africa.
“Kudos to the National Assembly. This is Nigeria leading by example. Every African country should take a cue and say, ‘our people’s lives matter.’”
Kalu Calls for Inclusive Reforms, Emphasizes Role of Women and Youth
Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, emphasized the importance of inclusive governance in Nigeria, stating that true democratic development is impossible without equal representation for women, youth, and marginalized communities.
“Despite their vital roles in nation-building, Nigerian women remain grossly underrepresented,” Kalu said. “The ongoing constitutional review offers a rare opportunity to dismantle long-standing barriers.”
Among the proposals under consideration by the National Assembly Constitution Review Committees are:
Constitutional amendments to expand women’s representation in appointed and elected offices;
Introduction of legislative quotas at both federal and state levels;
Elimination of discriminatory clauses in Nigeria’s Constitution and electoral laws;
Creation of gender-responsive frameworks to strengthen inclusive governance.
Kalu invited the UNDP to provide technical assistance, share global best practices, and support stakeholder engagement, including capacity-building programs for legislators and political actors.
Peacebuilding Support for the South East Region
Kalu also proposed a new intervention project specifically targeting South East Nigeria, calling for the adaptation of UNDP’s successful community peacebuilding model used in the North East.
“The South East faces unique post-conflict challenges. We request UNDP’s partnership in establishing sustainable peace and promoting social stability,” he stated.
This initiative, he said, would align with upcoming national security summits and include international study tours to examine successful post-conflict recovery strategies… Continue>>
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