The Deputy Speaker of the Nigerian’s Federal House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has called for the deliberate integration of the African Union’s Agenda 2063 into Nigeria’s national development strategy.
He made this statement during the just-concluded Conference of Speakers of African Parliaments in Midrand, South Africa, where he led Nigeria’s delegation, standing in for Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.
In a communique issued at the end of the conference on Saturday, Kalu emphasized that by aligning with Agenda 2063, Nigeria would serve as a model for other African nations.
According to him, “Agenda 2063 is a comprehensive blueprint designed to transform Africa into a global economic powerhouse. It envisions an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful continent, driven by its people and representing a dynamic force in the international arena.”
“The framework comprises seven key aspirations that focus on economic growth, social inclusion, sustainable development, and good governance.”
Kalu, who represents Bende Federal Constituency of Abia State, highlighted that Nigeria’s developmental goals align with the broader objectives of Agenda 2063.
He noted that the current administration under President Bola Tinubu is already advancing many of the agenda’s key themes, including economic diversification, youth empowerment, and good governance.
“As Africa’s most populous country and largest economy, Nigeria holds a pivotal position on the continent. Despite the numerous challenges it has faced in the past, such as economic volatility, infrastructure deficits, and social inequalities, Nigeria’s future is promising under the current leadership,” Kalu remarked.
He pointed to the country’s ongoing efforts to reduce its dependence on oil by investing in agriculture, technology, and renewable energy, aligning with the aspirations of Agenda 2063 for sustainable economic growth.
“Through economic diversification, Nigeria seeks to achieve sustainable growth that reflects the broader vision of Africa’s development agenda,” he added.
Kalu also noted the importance of infrastructure development as a fundamental component of economic progress.
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He commended Nigeria’s active role in regional connectivity projects, including the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which resonates with Agenda 2063’s vision of an integrated Africa.
In addressing the continent’s demographic potential, Kalu highlighted the Federal Government’s initiatives to empower the youth through education and job creation, which align with Agenda 2063’s emphasis on people-driven development.
He also called for a comprehensive review of existing policies across African nations to further support the continent’s development goals.
A key element of the AU’s agenda, he said, is infrastructure development, and he advocated for increased investments in critical sectors such as transportation, energy, and digital connectivity.
“Increasing investment in infrastructure will not only enhance Africa’s global competitiveness but also boost intra-African trade and economic integration,” Kalu stated.
Additionally, he urged African countries to strengthen regional partnerships to foster trade and economic cooperation, which would promote stability and growth across the continent.
Emphasizing the importance of technology and innovation, the Deputy Speaker stressed that Africa must prioritize technological advancement to remain competitive in the global arena.
He also called for policies that encourage research and development to spur innovation on the continent.
Kalu’s intervention at the conference reflected his deep understanding of the interconnectedness of Nigeria’s future with Africa’s broader developmental aspirations.
He said.“Nigeria’s efforts to integrate the AU Agenda 2063 blueprint into its national strategies will not only drive its growth but also significantly contribute to the realization of a prosperous and united Africa.”
He further noted that as Nigeria embraces the agenda, it reinforces its leadership role on the continent.
“To achieve the ambitious goals of Agenda 2063, all stakeholders including the government, civil society, and the private sector must work together. As Nigeria embarks on this journey, it is well-positioned to serve as a beacon of hope and progress within Africa,” Kalu concluded.
