Rt Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Deputy Speaker, Nigeria’s House of Representatives
In an examplary fusion of governance and scholarship, Deputy Speaker of the Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Rt Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, successfully defended his doctoral thesis in Policy and Strategic Studies on Thursday at the Abuja Leadership Centre (ALC), located at the University of Abuja.This academic feat underscores a growing trend among Nigerian political leaders who are pursuing advanced degrees not as ceremonial titles, but as critical instruments for driving innovative governance and policy reform in a complex global arena.
Following 
the defence, Rt Hon. Kalu paid a courtesy visit to the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Patricia Manko Lar, during which he described the academic journey as transformative. He stated that the research had equipped him with analytical tools to confront the disconnect between Nigeria’s domestic policy frameworks a 
nd the demands of global strategic engagement.
“This doctoral journey has deepened my understanding of governance, strategic policy, and global integration. It has provided me with a framework to help reposition national policymaking within a globally responsive context,” he said.
He commended the University of Abuja for upholding rigorous academic standards, asserting that such discipline enhances the international reputation of Nigerian scholarship. Kalu also pledged continued support for the University’s research initiatives, particularly those that drive evidence-based solutions to Nigeria’s developmental challenges.
Professor Patricia Lar, Acting Vice-Chancellor, praised the lawmaker, describing him as a symbol of the synergy between intellectual pursuit and public leadership. She expressed pride in the institution’s role in shaping a public servant of his calibre and encouraged him to remain actively involved in its future.
“This is a moment of great pride for our University. Your choice to pursue academic excellence here affirms our vision for leadership through scholarship,” she noted.
Also present at the event, Professor Philip Dahida, Director of the Abuja Leadership Centre, described the Centre as a pioneer in advanced policy research and leadership development. He highlighted its contributions to public discourse, policy innovation, and the grooming of a new generation of scholar-leaders.
About the Author
King Richard Igimoh is an award-winning veteran journalist, communications strategist, and public relations expert. He currently serves as Group Editor of the African Leadership Organisation and has over two decades of experience in media and public affairs leadership across Africa and beyond
