Benjamin Kalu biography reveals how Nigeria’s Deputy Speaker rose from Bende to become the 6th highest political office holder through law and leadership.
- Who is Benjamin Kalu?
- Benjamin Kalu Profile Summary
- Early Life and Family Background
- Parents and Upbringing
- Siblings
- Cultural and Religious Foundation
- Education and Academic Excellence
- Primary and Secondary Education
- University of Calabar: Legal Foundation
- Master’s Degree in Terrorism and International Humanitarian Law
- Oxford Brookes University: MBA
- PhD in Public Policy and Strategic Studies (2025)
- Additional Certifications and Training
- Professional Memberships and Fellowships
- Legal and Business Career
- Legal Practice
- International Business Ventures
- Political Career and Rise to Leadership
- Early Political Involvement
- Youngest Local Government Chairman
- Special Adviser Roles (2007-2010)
- Multiple Electoral Attempts
- Election to House of Representatives (2019)
- Spokesperson of the 9th Assembly
- Re-election (2023)
- Election as Deputy Speaker (2023)
- Legislative Achievements and Benjamin Kalu Biography as Deputy Speaker
- Dual Leadership Roles
- Prolific Legislative Record
- Focus Areas
- Awards and Recognition
- International Parliamentary Engagements
- Pan-African Parliament (African Union)
- ECOWAS Parliament (6th Session)
- Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU)
- Peace in the South East Project (PISE-P)
- Background and Rationale
- Project Objectives
- Approach
- Impact
- Benjamin Kalu Foundation
- Focus Areas
- Projects and Interventions
- Constituency Projects and Development
- Infrastructure Development
- Transportation
- Security
- Communication with Constituents
- Personal Life: Wife, Children and Family
- Marriage to Ifeoma Kalu
- Children
- Family Values
- Private Nature
- Net Worth and Financial Standing
- Sources of Wealth
- Asset Disclosure
- Lifestyle
- Publications and Academic Contributions
- Career Milestones and Achievements
- Public Perception and Leadership Style
- Testimonials from Leaders
- Community Recognition
- Leadership Qualities
- International Humanitarian Work
- Sudan Darfur Project (UNHCR)
- Conflict Resolution Expertise
- Legacy and Impact on Nigerian Politics
- Academic Excellence in Politics
- Bridge-Building Leadership
- Youth Empowerment Advocate
- Legislative Productivity
- Grassroots Connection
- Conclusion
- FAQs About Benjamin Kalu Biography
Who is Benjamin Kalu?
Benjamin Okezie Kalu, CFR, is a Nigerian politician, lawyer, and international businessman currently serving as the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives of Nigeria.
The Benjamin Kalu biography traces the journey of a distinguished legislator born on 5 May 1971 in Agbamuzu, Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria. He represents Bende Federal Constituency and holds the 6th highest political office in Nigeria’s legislative branch.
As Deputy Speaker of the 10th House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu chairs both the House Committee on Constitution Review and the House Committee of the Whole. His legislative career has been marked by exceptional productivity, having sponsored or co-sponsored over 100 bills and motions since his election in 2019.
Kalu’s academic credentials are impressive, holding multiple advanced degrees including a Master of Business Administration from Oxford Brookes University, a Master of Law in Terrorism and International Humanitarian Law (with distinction), and a Bachelor of Law (LL.B Hons.) from the University of Calabar. In 2025, he earned a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Public Policy and Strategic Studies from the University of Abuja.
Beyond politics, Benjamin Kalu is the founder of the Benjamin Kalu Foundation and convener of the Peace in the South East Project (PISE-P), which aims to use non-kinetic means to resolve insecurity in the South-East region of Nigeria.
Benjamin Kalu Profile Summary
| Personal Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Benjamin Okezie Kalu |
| Post-Nominal Letters | CFR (Commander of the Federal Republic) |
| Date of Birth | 5 May 1971 |
| Age | 53 years old (as of 2024, turning 54 in May 2025) |
| Place of Birth | Agbamuzu, Bende Local Government Area, Abia State |
| State of Origin | Abia State |
| Constituency | Bende Federal Constituency |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Tribe/Ethnicity | Igbo |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Height | Approximately 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 metres) |
| Occupation | Politician, Lawyer, International Businessman |
| Current Position | Deputy Speaker, 10th House of Representatives |
| Political Party | All Progressives Congress (APC) |
| Years in Office | 2019–present (2nd term) |
| Previous Position | Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs (9th Assembly) |
| Education | LL.B (Hons.), University of Calabar; LL.M (Distinction), University of Calabar; MBA, Oxford Brookes University; Ph.D., University of Abuja (2025) |
| Additional Qualifications | Diploma in International Commercial Arbitration (University of Oxford); Multiple certifications |
| Parents | Eze Kalu (father), Ngozi Kalu (mother) |
| Spouse | Ifeoma Kalu |
| Children | Five |
| Net Worth | Estimated $10-50 million |
| Foundation | Benjamin Kalu Foundation |
| Notable Project | Peace in the South East Project (PISE-P) |
| benkalu0505@gmail.com, benkalu@icloud.com | |
| Social Media | @OfficialBenKalu (X/Twitter) |
Early Life and Family Background
Benjamin Okezie Kalu was born on 5 May 1971 in Agbamuzu, a community in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria.
Parents and Upbringing
He was born to Eze Kalu (father) and Ngozi Kalu (mother). Raised in a Christian household within the Igbo ethnic community of Southeastern Nigeria, his early life was shaped by strong cultural and religious values.
These foundational values fostered his commitment to community service, which would later be reflected in his political career and humanitarian initiatives such as the Peace in the South East Project. His upbringing in Bende provided him with deep roots in the community he would later represent in the National Assembly.
Siblings
Details about Benjamin Kalu’s siblings are not publicly available. He has maintained relative privacy regarding his extended family, choosing to focus public attention on his professional achievements and immediate family.
Cultural and Religious Foundation
Growing up in the Southeastern part of Nigeria, Kalu was immersed in Igbo culture and traditions. The strong emphasis on hard work, community service, and education within Igbo society significantly influenced his development.
His Christian faith has remained central to his life and public service. He often references his religious beliefs as guiding principles in his decision-making and leadership approach.
Education and Academic Excellence
Benjamin Kalu’s Benjamin Kalu biography showcases an exceptional commitment to academic excellence spanning multiple institutions and disciplines.
Primary and Secondary Education
Whilst specific details about his primary and secondary education are not extensively documented, Kalu completed his early education in Nigeria before proceeding to tertiary institutions.
University of Calabar: Legal Foundation
Kalu attended the University of Calabar, where he obtained his Bachelor of Law (LL.B Honours). This legal foundation provided the bedrock for his future career in law and politics.
Following his undergraduate studies, he proceeded to the Nigerian Law School in Enugu State, Nigeria. Upon successful completion, he was called to the Nigerian Bar, becoming a licensed legal practitioner.
Master’s Degree in Terrorism and International Humanitarian Law
Continuing his legal education, Kalu pursued a Master of Law (LL.M.) degree in Terrorism and International Humanitarian Law from the University of Calabar. He graduated with distinction, demonstrating exceptional academic performance in this specialised field.
This expertise in terrorism and humanitarian law would later inform his legislative work, particularly in areas of national security and human rights.
Oxford Brookes University: MBA
Benjamin Kalu earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Oxford Brookes University in the United Kingdom. This qualification equipped him with business management skills that complemented his legal expertise.
The MBA programme provided him with knowledge in areas such as strategic management, finance, and organisational leadership—skills essential for his subsequent roles in both business and politics.
PhD in Public Policy and Strategic Studies (2025)
In 2025, Kalu achieved another academic milestone by earning a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Public Policy and Strategic Studies from the University of Abuja.
His doctoral thesis, titled “Government Capacity to Integrate International Climate Adaptation Strategies and Policies in Nigeria”, demonstrates his commitment to addressing critical contemporary challenges facing Nigeria.
This Ph.D. adds to his credentials as one of the most academically qualified members of the Nigerian National Assembly.
Additional Certifications and Training
Beyond his formal degrees, Kalu has acquired numerous certifications:
Diploma in International Commercial Arbitration – University of Oxford, United Kingdom
Certificate in Migration and Human Rights – John Cabot University, Italy
Certificate in Illicit Trade – University of Groningen, Netherlands
Certificate in Governance and Development – Miami Herbert Business School, University of Miami, USA
Certificate in Environmental Crimes – United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute, Italy
Professional Memberships and Fellowships
Kalu is a fellow and member of several prestigious professional bodies:
These qualifications and memberships demonstrate Kalu’s commitment to continuous professional development and expertise across multiple disciplines.
Legal and Business Career
Before entering full-time politics, Benjamin Kalu established himself as a successful lawyer and international businessman.
Legal Practice
After being called to the Nigerian Bar, Kalu practiced law, gaining experience in various areas of legal practice. His firm, Silk Partners LLP, handles diverse legal matters including corporate law, immigration advisory services, and international commercial transactions.
His legal expertise covers:
International Business Ventures
Kalu built a successful career as an international businessman with interests spanning multiple sectors:
Real Estate: He invested in property development and real estate ventures.
Mining: He had business interests in Nigeria’s mining sector.
Manufacturing: He invested in manufacturing operations.
Commodities Trading: He engaged in international commodities trading, particularly in agricultural products.
Food Processing: He ventured into food processing and agribusiness.
International Trade: His business operations extended across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
As principal partner at Silk Partners LLP, Kalu developed expertise in:
These business experiences provided him with financial independence and practical knowledge of economic development, which would later inform his legislative work.
Political Career and Rise to Leadership
Early Political Involvement
Benjamin Kalu’s political journey began in 1992 at the age of 21, when he served as the National President of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Diaspora Chapter.
This early involvement in politics demonstrated his leadership qualities and commitment to national development even before formally entering electoral politics.
Youngest Local Government Chairman
In 2002, at age 31, Kalu achieved a significant milestone by becoming the youngest Local Government Chairman of Bende Local Government Area, Abia State.
This position gave him practical experience in grassroots governance and community development. It also established his connection with the people of Bende, whom he would later represent at the federal level.
Special Adviser Roles (2007-2010)
Under the administration of Governor Orji Uzor Kalu of Abia State, Benjamin Kalu served in two key advisory positions:
Senior Special Adviser on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs (2007-2009): In this role, he managed relationships between state government and local government authorities, as well as traditional institutions.
Senior Special Adviser on Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and International Relations (2009-2010): He coordinated Abia State’s implementation of MDGs and managed the state’s international partnerships.
These positions provided him with valuable experience in governance, policy implementation, and stakeholder management.
Multiple Electoral Attempts
Kalu’s path to the House of Representatives was not immediate. He demonstrated persistence through multiple electoral attempts:
These earlier defeats taught him valuable lessons about electoral politics and constituency engagement, preparing him for eventual success.
Election to House of Representatives (2019)
On 23 February 2019, Benjamin Kalu finally won election to represent Bende Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives under the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform.
His victory marked the beginning of what would become a distinguished legislative career.
Spokesperson of the 9th Assembly
During the 9th Assembly (2019-2023), Kalu was appointed Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, making him the official spokesperson for the House of Representatives.
In this capacity, he:
His performance in this role earned widespread praise. Then-Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila described him as someone who “continues to think outside the box” and took the media committee “to a towering height like never before in the National Assembly.”
Re-election (2023)
In the 2023 general elections, Kalu was re-elected to represent Bende Federal Constituency, demonstrating his constituents’ satisfaction with his performance.
Election as Deputy Speaker (2023)
On 13 June 2023, Benjamin Kalu was elected Deputy Speaker of the 10th House of Representatives, becoming the 6th highest political office holder in Nigeria’s legislative structure.
This elevation recognised his legislative experience, communication skills, and leadership qualities.
Legislative Achievements and Benjamin Kalu Biography as Deputy Speaker
Dual Leadership Roles
As Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu holds two critical positions:
Chairman, House Committee on Constitution Review: He leads efforts to review and amend Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, addressing structural and legal issues.
Chairman, House Committee of the Whole: He presides over the House when it sits in committee format for detailed legislative deliberations.
Prolific Legislative Record
Since 2019, Kalu has sponsored or co-sponsored over 100 bills and motions, including landmark legislation:
South-East Development Commission Act: Kalu championed this bill, which was signed into law by President Bola Tinubu. The commission addresses socio-economic and infrastructural deficits in the South-East region.
Nigerian Startup Act (2022): He contributed to legislation supporting Nigeria’s technology startup ecosystem.
Student Loan Act (2024): He supported this legislation aimed at making higher education more accessible to Nigerian students.
Acts Authentication Act: He proposed and supported this administrative reform legislation.
Nigerian Communications Act: He contributed to updates in telecommunications regulation.
Focus Areas
Kalu’s legislative work focuses on:
Awards and Recognition
Outstanding Legislative Contribution Award: For improving tuberculosis policy and funding in Nigeria
Outstanding Rep Member of the Year: By Democracy Heroes Award Africa (2022)
Distinguished National Youths Motivator Award: By the University of Nsukka (2018)
Hall of Fame Category Award: As Most Valuable Legislator
International Parliamentary Engagements
Benjamin Kalu maintains an active presence in international parliamentary forums:
Pan-African Parliament (African Union)
He is a member of the African Union’s Pan-African Parliament, serving under the specialised Committee on Finance and Administration. In this capacity, he contributes to African legislative initiatives and inter-parliamentary cooperation.
ECOWAS Parliament (6th Session)
Kalu is a prominent member of the 6th ECOWAS Parliament, where he:
His leadership in ECOWAS Parliament strengthens Nigeria’s influence in regional legislative matters.
Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU)
Kalu represents Nigeria at IPU events and has participated in global parliamentary discussions, contributing Nigeria’s perspective on international legislative issues.
Peace in the South East Project (PISE-P)
One of Benjamin Kalu’s most significant non-legislative initiatives is the Peace in the South East Project (PISE-P).
Background and Rationale
The South-East region of Nigeria has experienced security challenges in recent years, including activities of separatist groups and general insecurity. These challenges have affected economic activities, tourism, and daily life in the region.
Project Objectives
PISE-P aims to:
Approach
Unlike military interventions, PISE-P emphasises:
Impact
The project has contributed to peace-building efforts in the region and demonstrated Kalu’s commitment to resolving conflict through dialogue rather than force.
Benjamin Kalu Foundation
Beyond politics, Benjamin Kalu founded the Benjamin Kalu Foundation to address social and economic challenges at the grassroots level.
Focus Areas
The foundation concentrates on:
Youth Empowerment: Providing skills training, mentorship, and economic opportunities for young people
Women Empowerment: Supporting women’s economic independence and leadership development
People with Disabilities: Ensuring inclusion and empowerment of persons with disabilities
Education: Providing scholarships, educational materials, and infrastructure support
Sports Development: Creating sports leagues, tournaments, and supporting football academies for professional career development
IT and Technology: Establishing IT centres teaching software development and coding to make youth competitive in the job market
Projects and Interventions
Through the foundation, Kalu has:
Constituency Projects and Development
Benjamin Kalu has prioritised bringing tangible development to Bende Federal Constituency.
Infrastructure Development
He has attracted numerous road projects to the constituency, with traditional rulers acknowledging that “he has done what nobody has ever done in the Constituency.”
Transportation
To improve accessibility, he has:
Security
He has partnered with police and local government authorities to enhance security, supporting community vigilante groups.
Communication with Constituents
Kalu launched “BEN KALU’S MANDATE”, a weekly TV and radio programme that:
This commitment to transparency and accountability has strengthened his connection with constituents.
Personal Life: Wife, Children and Family
Marriage to Ifeoma Kalu
Benjamin Kalu is married to Ifeoma Kalu. The couple celebrated their 17th wedding anniversary in December 2022, suggesting they wed around 2005.
There are no public records of prior marriages, and the couple has maintained a stable family life throughout his political career.
Children
Benjamin and Ifeoma Kalu are blessed with five children. However, the couple maintains strict privacy regarding their children’s names, ages, and personal details.
This discretion protects their children from public scrutiny whilst allowing them normal upbringing despite their father’s prominent position.
Family Values
Despite his busy schedule as Deputy Speaker, Kalu is known to prioritise family time. His Christian faith and Igbo cultural values emphasise the importance of family, which he upholds.
Private Nature
Unlike some politicians who frequently share family photos on social media, Kalu keeps his family life relatively private. This approach protects his loved ones whilst maintaining appropriate boundaries between public service and personal life.
Net Worth and Financial Standing
Benjamin Kalu’s net worth is estimated to be between $10 million and $50 million.
Sources of Wealth
His wealth derives from multiple sources:
International Business Ventures: Decades of successful business operations in real estate, mining, manufacturing, commodities trading, and food processing across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa
Legal Practice: Income from Silk Partners LLP, handling corporate law, immigration advisory, and international commercial matters
Political Appointments: Salaries and allowances from his various government positions since 2002
Investments: Diversified investment portfolio in various sectors
Asset Disclosure
As a Nigerian public official, Kalu submits asset declarations to the Code of Conduct Bureau. However, these declarations are not publicly available with precise details, making exact net worth calculations difficult.
Lifestyle
Despite his wealth, Kalu maintains a relatively modest public lifestyle, focusing attention on his work rather than ostentatious displays of wealth.
Publications and Academic Contributions
Benjamin Kalu has contributed to academic discourse through several publications:
Kalu, Benjamin & Miebaka, Nabiebu (2024): “The International Criminal Court: Analyzing Its Efficacy in Combating International Crimes in the 21st Century.” Advances in Law, Pedagogy, and Multidisciplinary Humanities, 2(1), 85-104.
Benjamin Okezie Kalu & Amarachukwu Onyinyechi Ijiomah (2024): “The Evolution and Impact of Terrorism in Africa: Historical Context, Key Actors, and Counter-Terrorism Measures,” PINISI Journal of Art, Humanity and Social Studies, Vol. 4 (1).
Benjamin Okezie Kalu and Ugonna Obi-Emeruwa (2024): “Climate Adaptation Policy and Food Security in Nigeria: Evaluating Strategies, Challenges and Future Directions,” Journal of African Gender, Peace and Security Studies Review.
Benjamin Okezie Kalu and Amarachukwu Onyinyechi Ijioma (2024): “The Impact of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) on Economic Growth and Development in Nigeria: Prospects, Challenges, and Policy Implications,” GNOSI: An Interdisciplinary Journal of Human Theory and Praxis, Volume 7, Issue 2.
Kalu, Benjamin Okezie & Ijioma, Amarachi Onyinyechi (2024): “International Legal Regime: Analysis of Cases Relating to Global Terrorism.”
These publications demonstrate his expertise in terrorism, international law, climate policy, and economic development.
Career Milestones and Achievements
| Year | Milestone/Achievement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1971 | Birth | Born 5 May in Agbamuzu, Bende LGA, Abia State |
| 1992 | Political Entry | Served as National President, PDP Diaspora Chapter (age 21) |
| 2002 | Local Government Leadership | Became youngest LGA Chairman of Bende at age 31 |
| 2007-2009 | State Government Role | Senior Special Adviser on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Abia State |
| 2009-2010 | MDGs Coordinator | Senior Special Adviser on MDGs and International Relations, Abia State |
| 2019 | House of Representatives | Elected to represent Bende Federal Constituency (APC) |
| 2019-2023 | Spokesperson | Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs (9th Assembly) |
| 2022 | Outstanding Rep Award | Received Outstanding Rep Member of the Year by Democracy Heroes Award Africa |
| 2023 | Re-election | Re-elected to represent Bende Federal Constituency |
| 13 June 2023 | Deputy Speaker | Elected Deputy Speaker, 10th House of Representatives |
| 2023-Present | Constitution Review | Chairman, House Committee on Constitution Review |
| 2023-Present | Committee of Whole | Chairman, House Committee of the Whole |
| 2024 | Legislative Success | South-East Development Commission Bill signed into law |
| 2025 | PhD Achievement | Earned Ph.D. in Public Policy and Strategic Studies from University of Abuja |
| 2019-Present | Prolific Legislator | Sponsored/co-sponsored over 100 bills and motions |
Public Perception and Leadership Style
Testimonials from Leaders
Sen. Ahmed Lawan (President of the 9th Senate): “He speaks not only for the House of Representatives but for the entire National Assembly and he has done that so well. Abia is blessed to have Rep. Benjamin Kalu.”
Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila (Speaker of the 9th House of Reps): “He is a chairman who continues to think outside the box and who is taking this media committee to a towering height like never before in the National Assembly. His capacity, his ability, his competence, his passion…remains unparalleled in the history of the media committee of the House of Representatives.”
Boss Mustapha (fmr. Secretary to the Government of the Federation): “You have shown excellence spirit in all assignments you are asked to handle and the glory around you is because you love God.”
Community Recognition
Eze Uwakwe Ukaegbu (Chairman of Traditional Rulers, Bende): “Hon. Benjamin Kalu has opened our eyes to what we never knew existed in this office he is occupying. We are happy with his representation.”
HRH Innocent Mba (Chairman, Item Traditional Rulers Council): “Within two years, he has put smiles in the lives of his constituents. He has attracted so many road projects…He has done what nobody has ever done in the Constituency.”
Leadership Qualities
Kalu is recognised for:
International Humanitarian Work
Beyond Nigerian politics, Benjamin Kalu has engaged in international humanitarian efforts:
Sudan Darfur Project (UNHCR)
In Australia, Kalu led the Sudan Darfur Project for the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR). His responsibilities included:
This experience gave him insight into international humanitarian challenges and refugee management.
Conflict Resolution Expertise
His work with UNHCR, combined with his academic specialisation in terrorism and humanitarian law, positions him as an expert in conflict-resilient policymaking.
Legacy and Impact on Nigerian Politics
Benjamin Kalu’s Benjamin Kalu biography represents several important trends in Nigerian politics:
Academic Excellence in Politics
With a PhD, multiple master’s degrees, and numerous certifications, Kalu exemplifies the increasing professionalisation of Nigerian politics. He demonstrates that political leadership can be combined with serious academic scholarship.
Bridge-Building Leadership
As an Igbo person serving as Deputy Speaker in a multi-ethnic National Assembly, Kalu represents successful cross-ethnic political collaboration in Nigeria.
Youth Empowerment Advocate
Despite being 53, Kalu consistently focuses on youth and women empowerment, recognising these demographics as key to Nigeria’s future.
Legislative Productivity
His record of over 100 bills and motions sets a high standard for legislative productivity in the Nigerian National Assembly.
Grassroots Connection
His weekly radio/TV programme and hands-on constituency engagement demonstrate how national politicians can maintain strong grassroots connections.
Conclusion
Benjamin Okezie Kalu’s journey from Agbamuzu in Bende Local Government Area to the 6th highest political office in Nigeria is a testament to persistence, academic excellence, and dedicated public service.
The Benjamin Kalu biography chronicles a man who refused to give up after multiple electoral defeats, eventually winning election in 2019 and rising to Deputy Speaker within four years. His combination of legal expertise, international business experience, academic credentials (including a PhD), and grassroots connection makes him a unique figure in Nigerian politics.
As Deputy Speaker, Kalu chairs the critical Constitution Review Committee, positioning him to influence the fundamental legal framework governing Nigeria. His prolific legislative record—over 100 bills and motions—demonstrates exceptional productivity. His successful push for the South-East Development Commission addresses historical regional marginalization.
Beyond politics, his Peace in the South East Project showcases innovative, non-kinetic approaches to conflict resolution. The Benjamin Kalu Foundation’s focus on youth, women, and persons with disabilities reflects his commitment to inclusive development.
At 53, with five children and married to Ifeoma Kalu, he balances family life with demanding political responsibilities. His estimated net worth of $10-50 million, derived from international business ventures and legal practice, provides financial independence whilst serving in public office.
His international engagements—leading Nigeria’s delegation to ECOWAS Parliament, serving in the Pan-African Parliament, and previous UNHCR humanitarian work—demonstrate his global perspective and diplomatic skills.
As Nigeria continues its democratic journey, leaders like Benjamin Kalu—academically qualified, legislatively productive, ethically grounded, and community-focused—represent hope for improved governance. His story from persistent candidate to Deputy Speaker illustrates that in Nigerian politics, resilience and competence can ultimately triumph.
FAQs About Benjamin Kalu Biography
Q1: How old is Benjamin Kalu?
Benjamin Okezie Kalu was born on 5 May 1971, making him 53 years old as of 2024. He will turn 54 in May 2025.
Q2: What is Benjamin Kalu’s net worth?
Benjamin Kalu’s net worth is estimated between $10 million and $50 million, derived from his extensive international business ventures, legal practice, and investments across multiple sectors.
Q3: Who is Benjamin Kalu’s wife?
Benjamin Kalu is married to Ifeoma Kalu. The couple celebrated their 17th wedding anniversary in December 2022, suggesting they married around 2005. They have five children together.
Q4: What is Benjamin Kalu’s educational background?
Kalu holds an LL.B (Hons.) from University of Calabar, LL.M (Distinction) in Terrorism and International Humanitarian Law from University of Calabar, MBA from Oxford Brookes University (UK), and a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Strategic Studies from University of Abuja (2025). He also has numerous international certifications.
Q5: What position does Benjamin Kalu hold?
Benjamin Kalu is the Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s 10th House of Representatives, the 6th highest political office in the country’s legislative branch. He also chairs the House Committee on Constitution Review and the House Committee of the Whole.
Q6: Which constituency does Benjamin Kalu represent?
Benjamin Kalu represents Bende Federal Constituency in Abia State. He was first elected in 2019 and re-elected in 2023, both times on the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform.
Q7: What is the Peace in the South East Project (PISE-P)?
PISE-P is Benjamin Kalu’s initiative aimed at resolving insecurity in Nigeria’s South-East region through non-kinetic (non-military) means, emphasising dialogue, economic empowerment, and community peace-building.
Q8: How many bills has Benjamin Kalu sponsored?
Since his election in 2019, Benjamin Kalu has sponsored or co-sponsored over 100 bills and motions, including landmark legislation like the South-East Development Commission Act, Nigerian Startup Act, and Student Loan Act.
Q9: Where is Benjamin Kalu from?
Benjamin Kalu hails from Agbamuzu in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria. He is of Igbo ethnicity from the South-East region.
Q10: What awards has Benjamin Kalu won?
Benjamin Kalu has received several awards including: Outstanding Rep Member of the Year (Democracy Heroes Award Africa, 2022), Outstanding Legislative Contribution Award for improving tuberculosis policy in Nigeria, Distinguished National Youths Motivator Award (University of Nsukka, 2018), and Hall of Fame Category Award as Most Valuable Legislator.