CROSS RIVER, CALABAR – Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has expressed deep pride in returning to his alma mater, the University of Calabar (UNICAL), for its 50th Anniversary and 37th Convocation Lecture.
Kalu, who graduated in 1998, attended the ceremony alongside 70 of his classmates, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and other dignitaries, including the university’s Chancellor, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero.
Delivering the convocation lecture titled “Our Gown in Town and in Cyberspace: Sustainable and Human-Centered Education, The Mandate of Our Universities, 2025-2075,” Kalu emphasized the urgent need for universities to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application.
“Education is not merely about acquiring knowledge; it is about applying it to shape the future,” Kalu stated. “If our universities fail to adapt, we risk producing graduates unprepared for the world they will inherit.”
He urged policymakers, educators, and industry leaders to take decisive steps in funding research, strengthening industry partnerships, and ensuring education serves as a tool for national transformation.
Mixed Reactions Trail Kalu’s Post
Following his remarks, Kalu’s social media post about the event sparked reactions from followers. While some commended his speech and leadership, others criticized his political stance.
Comrade Karen Solomon condemned Kalu, accusing him of celebrating while the country faced constitutional crises. “You’re a deputy speaker, and you’re here celebrating your stupidity when the president is engaging in unconstitutional acts. One day, politics will play you,” Solomon wrote.
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Ogar Emmanuel Oko acknowledged Kalu’s intellect but criticized the National Assembly’s performance under his leadership. “Kalu is a sound lawmaker, but the National Assembly is sadly an example of yesmanship. This is not the Malabitic spirit we are known for,” he stated.
Similarly, Uzor Ifebi accused Kalu of being part of Nigeria’s governance woes. “So ashamed of you. A principal officer of the Green Chambers, orchestrating the woes of this enterprise called Nigeria,” he commented.
On the other hand, some followers praised Kalu for his lecture and leadership. ThankGod Etim celebrated UNICAL for producing both the Senate President and Deputy Speaker. “Congratulations to the University of Calabar for this remarkable feat,” he wrote.
Iqwe Simple Emmanuel described Kalu’s speech as insightful. “Outspoken, intellectual capacity is vital in leadership. You spoke powerfully as you enlightened the academic community and our nation at large,” he said.
Despite mixed reactions, Kalu maintained that education should be the driving force behind Nigeria’s progress. “Let us not wait for the future; let us summon it with bold action,” he declared.