The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has called on the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office to sustain and deepen its support for Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Kalu made the push in London during a high-level meeting with FCDO officials led by Director-General, Network, Christina Scott, on the sidelines of his engagement at Chatham House.
With Nigeria’s next general elections already drawing attention, the Deputy Speaker warned that the country’s democratic trajectory carries consequences beyond its borders.
“Nigeria’s democracy is not important only to Nigerians. It is important to West Africa, to the African continent and to the wider international community,” he said.
Kalu acknowledged existing UK support but stressed that more sustained technical backing would be critical to safeguarding electoral integrity, strengthening institutions and restoring public confidence in the system.
He said, “I wish to convey our sincere gratitude to the UK Government and the FCDO for their continued partnership.
“We appreciate your support for democratic governance, electoral integrity, legislative strengthening, civic participation, conflict prevention and peacebuilding.”
The lawmaker pointedly linked strong legislative institutions to democratic survival, noting that gaps in governance and trust must be urgently addressed before 2027.
“Strong legislatures are key to strong democracies. Your support for parliamentary capacity, transparency, electoral reform and citizen participation strengthens the democratic compact between the Nigerian state and its people,” he said.
Kalu also signalled that Nigeria’s reform process was far from complete, listing unresolved issues around federalism, devolution, inclusion and security architecture.
“As Chairman of the House Committee on Constitution Review, I can attest to the importance of sustained technical support, comparative learning and inclusive public consultation,” he added.
On electoral reforms, the Deputy Speaker referenced lessons from the 2023 general elections, admitting the need for clearer rules, improved technology and stronger dispute resolution systems.
He said, “The 2026 Electoral Act has strengthened the legal framework for the use of technology in elections, including the statutory recognition of BVAS and electronic transmission of results.
“Subsequent legislative action has also sought to reduce uncertainty in pre-election litigation.”
Despite these reforms, Kalu stressed that early preparation remains critical to avoiding the pitfalls of previous elections.
“The National Assembly is committed to ensuring that the legal and institutional framework for the elections is settled early enough,” he said.
“Our objective is clear: elections that are peaceful, transparent, inclusive, technology-enabled and reflective of the genuine will of the Nigerian people.”
He further warned that Nigeria’s stability remains a cornerstone for the West African sub-region, describing the country as an anchor for democratic resilience.
“A stable, inclusive and prosperous Nigeria will remain a pillar of stability for ECOWAS and an anchor for democratic resilience across Africa,” he said.
Kalu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to constitutionalism and the rule of law, while signalling expectations for a stronger, more strategic alliance with the UK.
“We value the United Kingdom as a trusted partner and look forward to a deeper, more strategic and more impactful relationship,” he said.