Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, PhD, CFR has said that Nigeria’s energy and creativity is a reflection of Africa’s promising future.
Kalu stated this on Wednesday when he received on a courtesy visit, delegation of young leaders from the Torchbearers of liberty fellowship.
He cited a United Nations report which states that by 2030, 1 in every 3 new entrants into the global labour force will be African.
He said to harness this potential, deliberate policy and legislation are expanding opportunity through initiatives such as the 600 million dollar iDICE partnership with the African Development Bank, which empowers young innovators in technology and creativity.
He assured that the 10th House of Representatives is legislating with the future in mind, a future where youth potential meets opportunity, and laws serve as instruments of empowerment.
The Deputy Speaker urged the young leaders to embrace collaboration beyond borders: driving ideas that link innovation to sustainability, policy to justice, and opportunity to equity.
Kalu said, “It is my honour and privilege to welcome you, brilliant young leaders from across the world, to the People’s House, the 10th House of Representatives of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.Your presence today is a powerful reminder that leadership is not defined by age,but by the courage to envision a better tomorrow and to act boldly in pursuit of it.I salute the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation for nurturing that vision and for continuing the legacy of a man whose name stands for democracy, justice, and service to humanity.
“The Power of Exchange, Global Citizenship and the Architecture of Ideas In every generation, there are those who carry the burden of transition. I call them the bridge-builders between what is and what ought to be. You, the young leaders gathered here today, are bridge-builders. Through this exchange programme, you are not merely visiting another country; you are participating in a profound conversation about the soul of our continent and the future of our world. The exchange of ideas across borders is how nations grow wiser.
“Nigeria, Africa and the World: Shaping the Future Together Nigeria stands at a defining moment, a nation of over 220 million people whose energy and creativity reflect Africa’s promise. According to the United Nations, by 2030, 1 in every 3 new entrants into the global labour force will be African. To harness this potential, deliberate policy and legislation are expanding opportunity through initiatives such as the 600 million dollar iDICE partnership with the African Development Bank, which empowers young innovators in technology and creativity.
“The 10th House: A Parliament of Partnership and Progress This is why the 10th House of Representatives is legislating with the future in mind, a future where youth potential meets opportunity, and laws serve as instruments of empowerment. Through key bills on innovation, entrepreneurship, education, and inclusion, we are ensuring governance works for people, not just for growth.
As Chairman of the House Committee on Constitution Review, my office is leading efforts to make our Constitution truly reflect the people’s aspirations. Through nationwide dialogues and public hearings, voices from traditional rulers, youth, women, and persons with disabilities are shaping the next chapter of our democracy. We believe a constitution must not only define governance but mirror the governed. That is why we are driving reforms that advance inclusion, gender balance, youth participation, and local governance. My office, and indeed this Parliament, welcomes collaboration with young leaders like you through mentorship exchanges, joint policy dialogues, and research partnerships that translate your ideas into actionable frameworks.”
Earlier, the Acting Director-General of the Torchbearers of Liberty Fellowship, Amara Nwankpa informed the Deputy Speaker of a panAfrican leadership training programme jointly organised by the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation and Students for Liberty (SFL).
He said the reason for the visit is to provide the participants with an invaluable opportunity to learn from his public service experience, gain insight into the legislative process, and deepen their appreciation of leadership at the national level.
