Abuja, Nigeria — Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has urged the United Kingdom to sustain its support for Nigeria’s democratic governance and electoral reforms ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Kalu made the appeal during a meeting with senior officials of the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), led by Director General (Network), Christina Scott, in London on the sidelines of his engagement at Chatham House.
He stressed that continued collaboration between Nigeria and the UK would be critical to strengthening democratic institutions, enhancing electoral integrity, and building public confidence in the electoral process.
“Nigeria and the United Kingdom share deep historical ties, people-to-people connections, commercial interests and, importantly, a common commitment to constitutional democracy, accountable institutions and the rule of law,” Kalu said.
He expressed appreciation for the UK government’s longstanding partnership in supporting democratic governance, legislative development, civic participation, conflict prevention and peacebuilding in Nigeria through institutions such as the Policy and Advocacy Centre (PLAC).
According to the Deputy Speaker, strong legislatures remain the backbone of vibrant democracies, noting that UK-backed initiatives in parliamentary capacity building, transparency and evidence-based lawmaking have significantly strengthened Nigeria’s democratic framework.
As Chairman of the House Committee on Constitution Review, Kalu highlighted the ongoing constitutional amendment process, describing it as central to addressing key national issues, including federalism, devolution of powers, electoral integrity, security architecture, and broader inclusion of women, youth and persons with disabilities.
He also pointed to progress in electoral reforms following the 2023 general elections, which informed legislative updates culminating in the enactment of the 2026 Electoral Act.
“The 2026 Electoral Act has further strengthened the legal framework for the use of technology in elections, including the statutory recognition of BVAS and electronic transmission of results,” he said, adding that clearer provisions have also been introduced to address pre-election litigation.
Looking ahead, Kalu said the National Assembly is committed to finalising the legal and institutional framework for the 2027 elections early enough to ensure effective implementation, voter education, training and logistics.
“Our objective is clear: elections that are peaceful, transparent, inclusive, technology-enabled and reflective of the genuine will of the Nigerian people,” he added.
Kalu further underscored Nigeria’s strategic role in regional stability, describing the country as a key pillar for peace, economic integration and democratic resilience within ECOWAS and across Africa.
He noted that sustained UK support would not only strengthen Nigeria’s democracy but also contribute to regional security, trade, migration management and overall development.
