The House of Representatives has pledged to reevaluate capital punishment to align with the international human rights law (IHRL).
The Deputy Speaker of the House, Mr. Benjamin Kalu, said this during separate meetings with the delegations from the Australian and Rwandan Embassies in Nigeria, led by Leilani Bin-Juda and Christopher Bazivamo, respectively, at the National Assembly in Abuja.
Kalu, who chairs the House committee on constitutional amendment, described the issue as complex, which requires careful consideration and dialogue.
He added that as alternatives to capital punishment, the aim is to align policies with international human rights standards while respecting the sentiments of Nigerian citizens.
The Deputy Speaker said, “Our goal is to create an enabling environment that attracts foreign investment while ensuring that local communities benefit from mining activities. By advancing partnerships with Australian mining companies, we can enhance job creation, boost local economies, and ensure that our natural resources contribute to the overall development of Nigeria.
“Ongoing Constitutional Amendments, The constitution review committee is currently engaged in significant constitutional amendments that seek to address pressing issues within our society. Among these are the Gender Bills, specifically HB.1349, which addresses the reservation of seats for women in our legislative bodies. This initiative is crucial for enhancing women’s representation in governance, which is essential for a balanced and equitable society.”
Similarly, in his address to the delegation from the Rwanda Embassy, Kalu sought enhanced cooperation between the two nations, noting that they both share a commitment to enhancing peace, stability, and development in the region and beyond.
He sought collaboration and insights from Rwanda, especially in key thematic areas such as gender and security adding the nation’s exemplary progress in gender representation, with women holding 63.75% in the Chamber of Deputies and 53.8% in the Senate which is the highest in the world provides a valuable model for Nigeria to learn from.
Kalu has called for partnership with the Australian and Rwandan governments to support Nigeria’s efforts in promoting women’s representation in governance, improving security, and building a resilient mining sector, amongst others.
Addressing the delegation from the Australian Embassy, the Deputy Speaker noted that Nigeria is endowed with a wealth of natural resources, and the mining industry presents a tremendous opportunity for growth and development.
Recognizing Australia’s expertise in mining and resource management, Kalu sought their collaboration in sharing best practices, technology, and sustainable practices that ensure the responsible extraction of the nation’s mineral resources.
He urged the Australian partners to continue supporting Nigeria’s endeavors in promoting gender equality and human rights through the ongoing constitution review process, expressing optimism that their experiences and strategies in advancing women’s rights can provide invaluable insights as they navigate this journey.
Earlier, the Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Her Excellency, Leilani Bin-Juda, stated that their interests range from mining, trade, and investment, amongst others.
On his part, Rwandan Ambassador to Nigeria, Christophe Bazivamo, said the purpose of their visit is to explore how both nations can strengthen institutional linkages between the legislative bodies.
He sought legislative collaboration in oversight, legislative drafting, and the use of innovation, technology in parliamentary activities, the formation of the Nigeria-Rwanda parliamentary friendship group, and so on.
