By Mercy Gadia
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, on Tuesday called for increased technology transfer and local manufacturing partnerships with European countries as a strategy to create jobs and curb irregular migration in Nigeria.
Kalu made the call while receiving a delegation of European parliamentarians under the First Step Forum, led by Marc Jost, during a courtesy visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and addressing shared global challenges.
The Deputy Speaker advocated the adoption of “near-shoring,” an economic model that involves relocating technology, finance, and industrial capacity closer to regions where raw materials are sourced, particularly in Africa.
“We have a huge population within our youth demography. You have the capital and the technology; we have the raw materials. The question is why are we not practising what the economy calls near-shoring?” Kalu said.
He explained that near-shoring would enable Nigeria to move away from exporting raw materials to producing finished goods locally.
“Why should I export my cocoa to you when you can bring your technology and finance here to turn it into chocolate? Let our cocoa farms become chocolate factories. That is value addition, that is job creation,” he added.
Kalu also highlighted Nigeria’s lithium deposits, noting that partnerships with European countries could support local production of batteries, especially as the world shifts towards cleaner energy.
He called for a reset in Africa-Europe relations, urging both regions to build a future based on mutual respect and shared prosperity rather than historical grievances.
On national cohesion, Kalu described Nigeria’s religious diversity as a strength that enhances governance and inclusive decision-making.
“Our diversity is not a disadvantage; it is a beautiful coloration that allows us to see issues from multiple perspectives. That is how we achieve balanced and inclusive governance,” he said.
He further commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for promoting religious harmony, citing inclusive national policies and symbolic actions.