Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin says Africa’s huge debt burden strains it public finances, making it difficult to realize the sustainable social development.
Kalu was speaking, at the 150th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Tashkent, Uzbekistan on the topic “Parliamentary Action for Social Development and Justice, said the path to sustainable social development is not without its challenges, especially for Africa as huge debt drains public finances and
limit the resources available for social investments.
He however maintained that while the debt burden presents formidable challenges, it must not be an excuse for inaction. Instead, it calls for innovative fiscal policies, debt restructuring and importantly, greater support from the
global community.
Narrowing it down to Nigeria, Kalu highlighted the country’s efforts at meeting global demands for sustainable social development and justice. He cited the nation’s key legislative achievements in recent years, saying they attest to her commitment towards realizing the objective.
He said: “Nigeria has taken decisive steps to meet the global demand for sustainable social development and justice. Our legislative achievements in recent years bear testament to our unflinching commitment. One of the key pillars of our strategy has been the establishment of regional development commissions. Over the past year, the Nigerian Parliament has enacted legislation to create four new regional development commissions.”
“Over the past two years, targeted social investments by Nigeria’s federal executive have reached more than five million households. These initiatives are specifically designed to support the most vulnerable segments of our society, including older adults, persons with disabilities, and children. Our goal is clear: justice is achieved when every Nigerian—regardless of status—is given a fair chance at prosperity”, he said.
He however assured that Nigeria’s journey towards social development and justice is defined by a steadfast commitment to human dignity, equity, and sustainable progress.
