The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has announced plans to lead a high-level parliamentary roundtable on trade and investment to Ottawa, Canada, aimed at strengthening bilateral economic and legislative cooperation between both countries.
In a statement issued from the Office of the Deputy Speaker and signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, Kalu disclosed the development during a courtesy visit by a Canadian delegation led by the Chargé d’affaires, Ms. Lisa Stockley, in Abuja on Thursday.
He noted that Nigeria’s ongoing economic transformation driven by diversification, infrastructure renewal, agricultural modernization, digital innovation, and industrial expansion aligned with Canada’s strengths in clean technology, ICT, energy, education, agribusiness, and manufacturing.
According to him, parliamentary diplomacy remained a critical tool for strengthening democratic institutions, promoting accountability, and advancing trade-enabling legislation.
“As legislators, we understand that diplomacy is not only conducted by governments and executives, but also by parliaments,” he said, stressing the need for structured engagement to deepen economic ties.
The proposed roundtable, expected to hold in Ottawa around July or August, will bring together lawmakers, policymakers, investors, and private sector leaders from both countries.
Kalu explained that the objectives include strengthening legislative and diplomatic relations, harmonising trade and investment frameworks, improving legal protections, and enhancing ease of doing business between Nigeria and Canada.
He also called for Canadian support in facilitating participation from government officials, parliamentarians, business leaders, and policy experts, adding that the initiative would help advance a “rules-based, transparent, and predictable investment environment.”
Reaffirming the commitment of the legislature, he said the 10th House of Representatives is ready to support policies that promote investment, innovation, competitiveness, and inclusive economic growth.
He further highlighted ongoing discussions around a Foreign Investment Promotion Agreement and broader efforts to improve the investment climate between both nations.
“Nigeria values its partnership with Canada. Together, we can transform goodwill into stronger institutions, greater trade flows, and shared prosperity,” he said.
In her response, Ms. Lisa Stockley reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to strengthening ties with Nigeria, particularly in trade and investment cooperation.
She assured the Nigerian side of continued collaboration, noting that both countries share a long-standing relationship and ongoing discussions aimed at deepening bilateral engagement.
“We deeply appreciate the relationship between Canada and Nigeria. We look forward to continuing to grow it and exploring new areas of cooperation,” she said.
