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By Tracy Moses
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has called for enhanced collaboration between Nigeria and the U.S. State of Delaware to support ongoing constitutional reforms and advance gender inclusion, education, and public health.
Kalu made the call on Thursday when he received a delegation led by former Delaware Governor, Her Excellency Bethany Hall-Long, during a courtesy visit to his office at the National Assembly, Abuja.
The visit comes at a critical moment as Nigeria undertakes a new phase of constitutional amendment aimed at strengthening democratic institutions and addressing entrenched governance challenges. Kalu, who chairs the House Committee on Constitution Review, said the committee is prioritising reforms that can deliver long-term institutional stability.
He identified the Special Reserved Seats for Women Bill as one of the key proposals under consideration. The bill seeks to increase women’s representation in national and state legislatures through reserved seats, supported by a sunset clause to ensure periodic evaluation and eventual phase-out once equitable gender balance is achieved.
Other major proposals before the committee include decentralising policing to enhance security and strengthening local government autonomy to improve service delivery at the grassroots.
Kalu said Delaware’s strong record in community health systems, legislative efficiency, and inclusive governance provides valuable insights for Nigeria’s reform efforts. He noted that partnerships with sub-national governments in the U.S., particularly those with proven social development models, can enrich Nigeria’s legislative processes and promote institutional exchange.
“It is a privilege to welcome you to the People’s House,” he said. “Your visit underscores the shared democratic values that connect us. Delaware’s experience in building resilient communities and empowering vulnerable groups offers lessons that can support Nigeria’s ongoing reforms.”
Kalu commended Hall-Long for her distinguished public service career, noting her contributions to healthcare reform and support for underserved populations.
In her remarks, Hall-Long said her visit was driven by her commitment to advancing gender rights, expanding opportunities for women and girls, and supporting internally displaced persons (IDPs), priorities she noted align with the Deputy Speaker’s legislative agenda and Nigeria’s broader constitutional reform process.
Both leaders expressed optimism that the engagement would serve as a foundation for sustained institutional cooperation between Nigeria and Delaware.