Kalu Engages Nigerians At Harvard, Rallies Support For Economic Reforms, Reserved Seats Bill – Independent Newspaper Nigeria

Torkwase Nyiekaa

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, PhD, CFR, has urged Nigerians to throw their weight behind the ongoing economic reforms championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

He also called for broad support for the reserved seats bill currently before the National Assembly, describing it as a vital step toward strengthening inclusivity in governance.

In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, the Deputy Speaker made the appeal during an interactive session with the 2025/2026 cohort of Nigerians at the Harvard Kennedy School, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA, over the weekend.

Kalu emphasized that the reforms were designed to spur economic growth, stability, and sustainable development. He noted that President Tinubu is a visionary leader who has continued to steer the nation with deliberate and purposeful steps.

Acknowledging that leaders are often viewed through different lenses, the Deputy Speaker stressed that true reformers consistently pursue learning and knowledge in order to leave behind lasting legacies.

According to him, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is an intentional and deliberate leader who knows exactly the direction he is taking the country, and he is making strategic moves to get us there. This is a fact. I say this beyond political considerations, I would hold the same view even if I were not in the ruling party or in politics.

“You need to look at today versus yesterday through an unbiased lens, without sentiment, without trying to be politically correct. When you do, you will see it clearly. Reformers seek learning and knowledge.”*

On the reserved seats bill, Kalu explained that the initiative, which he personally sponsored, is part of broader efforts to promote inclusivity and expand representation in Nigeria’s democratic space.

He further commended Nigerians in the diaspora, noting that their continued interest in national affairs is an asset to the country.

“The aim of this bill is to carve out a political space for women. Even while living abroad, you are thinking about home, and that’s a blessing for Nigeria. It shows that our people in the diaspora have not forgotten their roots,” he said.