Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has called for integrating the African Union’s Agenda 2063 into Nigeria’s national development strategy.
He emphasized that as Africa’s most populous nation and largest economy, Nigeria’s alignment with the AU framework would set a model for other African countries.
Agenda 2063 is a strategic blueprint to transform Africa into a global powerhouse, with seven key aspirations focusing on economic growth, social inclusion, sustainable development, and good governance.
Kalu pointed out that many of Nigeria’s current initiatives, under President Bola Tinubu‘s leadership, already align with this vision, particularly in areas like economic diversification, youth empowerment, and good governance.
“Nigeria is reducing its dependence on oil by investing in sectors like agriculture, technology, and renewable energy, which complements the Agenda’s goal of sustainable economic growth.
“Additionally, infrastructure projects and regional connectivity efforts, such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), are vital for boosting Nigeria’s and Africa’s economic development,” he noted.
Kalu reiterated the importance of empowering the nation’s youth through education and job creation, aligning with Agenda 2063’s people-driven development strategy.
He also urged for a review of Nigeria’s existing policies to better support the continent’s shared aspirations.
“Increased investments in critical sectors such as transportation, energy, and digital connectivity are key to enhancing Africa’s competitiveness,” he added.
Kalu stressed that regional integration and technological advancements will play a significant role in Africa’s future growth.
He called for collaborative efforts between governments, civil society, and the private sector to achieve the ambitious goals of Agenda 2063, ensuring that Nigeria leads the charge toward a prosperous, peaceful, and united Africa.
Meanwhile, Kalu has outlined the strategies Nigeria is adopting to enhance its education system during the 3rd Ordinary Session of the 6th Parliament of the Pan-African Parliament in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Following his inauguration in the Parliament, Kalu emphasized the need for African parliaments to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4), which focuses on quality education.
Kalu highlighted Nigeria’s measures, including increased funding for schools, scholarships, and the passage of the Student Loan Scheme Bill, which President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed into law.
