Kalu Benjamin Okezie

Benjamin Okezie Kalu is a Nigerian politician currently serving as the deputy speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives since 2023, representing Bende federal constituency.

Born on May 5, 1971 in Agbamuzu, Bende Local Government Area, Abia State, he holds multiple academic qualifications including an MBA from Oxford Brookes University and a Master of Law specializing in terrorism and international humanitarian law.

He was called to the Nigerian Bar after completing his studies at Nigeria Law School in Enugu and has since earned a Ph.D. in public policy and strategic studies from the University of Abuja, focusing on climate adaptation strategies for Nigeria.

Kalu’s political career began in 2002 with early roles such as Local Government Chairman (Transition) for Bende Local Government Area and advisory positions to former Abia State Governor Orji Uzor Kalu.

He has served as the National Chapter President of the Peoples Democracy Party in Diaspora, among other advisory capacities. His re-election in 2023 marked his continued leadership in the House of Representatives.

As deputy speaker since 2023, he chairs key committees like the Constitution Review and Amendment Committee, advocating for legislative reforms such as the Acts Authentication Act and Nigerian Communications Act.

Kalu’s public roles include founding the Benjamin Kalu Foundation, leading projects like the Peace in the South East Project (PISE) to address insecurity through non-kinetic means, and managing international initiatives like the Sudan Darfur Project with UNHCR in Australia.