The Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Hon. Ben Kalu, has canvassed partnerships with Australia and Rwanda to enhance women’s representation in governance, security and mining, among other areas.
Speaking during separate meetings with delegates from the embassies of the two countries led by Leilani Bin-Juda from Australia and Christopher Bazivamo from Rwanda, on Thursday at the National Assembly, Abuja, Kalu noted that Nigeria is rich in natural resources and that the mining sector offers huge potential for growth and development.
He acknowledged Australia’s mining expertise and requested for collaboration and sharing of best practices, technology and sustainable methods for responsible resource extraction.
He also urged Australian partners to support Nigeria’s constitution review that focuses on gender equality and human rights.
The deputy Speaker also informed the delegation that discussions are ongoing regarding re-evaluating capital punishment within Nigeria’s legal framework.
He informed the delegation that Nigeria is currently discussing the review of capital punishment in its laws and stressed that the issue is complex and needs thorough discussions and considerations.
He also spoke about the importance of creating a conducive environment that attracts foreign investment in Nigeria’s mining sector.
According to him, the environment should not only appeal to investors but also ensure that local communities derive tangible benefits from mining activities thereby promoting mutual growth and development.
“By advancing partnerships with Australian mining companies, we can enhance job creation, boost local economies, and ensure that our natural resources contribute to the overall development of Nigeria.
“The Constitution Review Committee is currently engaged in significant constitutional amendments that seek to address pressing issues within our society.
“Among these are the Gender Bills, specifically HB.1349, which addresses the reservation of seats for women in our legislative bodies.
“This initiative is crucial for enhancing women’s representation in governance, which is essential for a balanced and equitable society,” Kalu said.
Addressing the Rwandan delegation, Kalu sought stronger ties between Nigeria and Rwanda, citing shared goals of peace, stability, and development.
“The bonds we have forged over the years are proof of our mutual respect and understanding, and I am optimistic about the potential that lies ahead.”
He stressed the importance of inter-parliamentary collaboration in deepening bilateral relations and driving regional development.
Responding, the Australian High Commissioner, Leilani Bin-Juda, reiterated her country’s interest in Nigeria’s mining, trade, and investment sectors.
She also commended Nigeria, noting fruitful discussions with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in January, and plans for a joint mining project with the Ministry of Mines and Steel in the coming weeks.
“Your nation’s exemplary progress in gender representation, with women holding 63.75% of seats in the Chamber of Deputies and 53.8% in the Senate, the highest in the world, provides a valuable model for us to learn from,” the deputy speaker said.
In his remarks, the Rwandan Ambassador, Christophe Bazivamo, called for strengthening of institutional ties between the legislative bodies of both countries, and proposed cooperation in oversight, law drafting, parliamentary technology and a parliamentary friendship group.
GIK/APA