Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, along with three other individuals, has been awarded a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Policy and Strategic Studies. The degrees were conferred at the Abuja Leadership Centre (ALC) of Yakubu Gowon University, formerly the University of Abuja.
According to Prof. Philip Dahida, the Director of the Centre, the academic achievements were granted after the candidates successfully completed all requirements, including the defense of their theses on August 7, 2025.
In addition to Deputy Speaker Kalu, the other recipients are Ugonna Obi Emeruwa, Abubakar Saddiq Musa, and Ahmed Umar Bolori, all of whom received doctoral degrees in the same field.
Speaking after the event, Prof. Patricia Manko Lar, the Acting Vice Chancellor of the university, praised Kalu for his commitment and determination to pursue education despite his busy schedule as a public official. She underscored the importance of Kalu’s research work and doctoral thesis titled “Government Capacity to Integrate International Climate Adaptation Strategies and Policies in Nigeria,” which aims to address significant gaps in that area.
Prof. Lar encouraged political elites to recognize the university’s capacity to deliver high-quality academic knowledge and contribute to national development.
In his remarks, Kalu expressed his gratitude to Prof. Dahida and the university community. He stated that the education he received has better equipped him to contribute to Nigeria’s growth and development. He emphasized that he was treated no differently than other students and that at no point was he asked for bribes or favors in exchange for assistance. Kalu, however vowed to apply the knowledge he gained and to strengthen legislation on climate change in Nigeria.
“I did not come to the University of Abuja to acquire a title. I came to gather tools that would aid in nation-building efforts. I focused on climate change because I know Nigeria is losing significantly due to our inability to integrate international policies and strategies into our national framework. I am declaring this university a solution hub for the multifaceted problems facing Nigeria,” he stated.
“As a lawmaker, I intend to use legislative measures to address identified gaps in the system, proposing the establishment of a Climate Adaptation Council to integrate existing bodies relevant to this issue.
“We will review current laws, possibly amending the Climate Change Act or creating new legislation that provides a stronger framework for capacity building for those addressing climate change,” he assured.
Kalu also urged Nigerians to consider local institutions for further education, emphasizing their potential to foster national growth.
“While studying abroad is an option, we must not overlook the institutions we fund as a government. Supporting local universities increases their credibility and integrity.
“I aim to inspire those who think they cannot study because they cannot obtain visas to go overseas. What they seek is available here. I have studied at institutions around the world and can attest to the quality of education provided.
“I did not attend classes as Deputy Speaker. Many students were unaware of my position until the end of my studies because I chose to blend in—wearing a cap and T-shirt, sitting at the back of the classroom to be treated like everyone else,” the lawmaker concluded.
