RT Hon B. Kalu 


The Deputy Speaker, House  Representatives, Rt Hon Benjamin on Friday urged Nigeria to understand the power of its diversity and to leverage on it for a more unified and prosperous future, where the collective strengths of its diverse population are fully harnessed 


 Kalu made the remarks while delivering the keynote  address on behalf of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, at the National Integration Conference organized by The Kukah Center in Abuja.


 Kalu, in the address emphasized the importance of Nigeria's diversity in ethnicity, language, and religion, stating that it offers a remarkable asset for the nation, significantly enhancing global diplomatic and economic relations


He stressed that it is crucial for the country to understand the power of leveraging this pluralism to propel the nation towards a more unified and prosperous future, where the collective strengths of its diverse population are fully harnessed.


"It is no secret that Nigeria is a country rich in diversity, with over 250 ethnic groups and more than 520 languages. With such diversity comes great potential, but also challenges", Kalu said, adding that  the House of Representatives is aware of these challenges and is committed to addressing them. 


He noted  that the House is poised to prioritize National Integration and that this will be reflected in the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).


Kalu commended the Kukah Centrer enter for convening such a critical event, emphasizing the importance of fostering a cohesive society from Nigeria's diverse identities which was aptly captured in the Conference theme:  "Unity in Diversity: Nigeria's National Identity and the Challenges of Nation-Building." 


The Deputy Speaker's  further highlighted the need for unity in diversity in our nation, stressing that diversity is not a weakness, but a strength that should be celebrated and utilized to promote understanding, tolerance, and harmony among Nigerians. 


He urged Nigerians to see diversity as an opportunity for growth and development, rather than a source of division.


 "Our diversity is our strength, and together, we can achieve greatness as a nation", the Deputy Speaker affirmed