The Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has underscored the importance of accountability, credibility, and transparency in the work of the ECOWAS Parliament’s Joint Committee, which he currently chairs.
In an interview with journalists in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, during the committee’s delocalized meeting, Kalu emphasized that these principles are central to the committee’s mandate. As Chairman of the Joint Committee on Administration, Finance, Budget, Public Accounts, Macroeconomic Policy, and Economic Research, Kalu stated that the committee is focused on thoroughly assessing the financial health of the ECOWAS Parliament.
Kalu highlighted the need to enhance the institution’s transparency, integrity, and accountability mechanisms. “We are dissecting the existing structures to ensure they are robust enough to uphold the highest standards of transparency and accountability,” he explained.
He further emphasized the importance of prioritizing integrity, stating, “Our goal is to ensure that the integrity, transparency, and accountability of the Parliament are at the highest possible levels. Once we establish strong credibility, it will attract widespread support.”
The ECOWAS Parliament, Kalu noted, is also exploring ways to close any gaps that may undermine its transparency and accountability. He expressed optimism that the ongoing technical sessions will lead to resolutions that strengthen the work of the subcommittees and enhance the overall credibility of the institution.
