October 18, 2025 —
Hon. Anderson Kelechi Akaliro, Member representing Umuahia North State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, has described the recent legislative working visit to the United Kingdom as a transformative experience that will significantly strengthen Abia’s legislative growth and institutional development.
The visit, which took place on October 16, 2025, saw Hon. Akaliro alongside other distinguished members of the Abia State House of Assembly engage in a series of educative and enlightenment sessions in London. The program is part of ongoing efforts to foster cross-country legislative exchanges, promote global partnerships, and expose lawmakers to international best practices in governance.
During their engagement at the British Parliament, the delegation met with Florence Eshalomi, MP, and the UK Trade Envoy to Nigeria, who both emphasized the need for stronger Nigeria–UK trade ties and highlighted transparency and accountability in governance as key drivers for attracting global investments.
Speaking on the importance of the visit, Hon. Akaliro stated that it provided invaluable insights into how effective legislative systems operate in advanced democracies.
“This visit has been a truly transformative opportunity for us as lawmakers,” Akaliro said.
“We have learned firsthand how legislation, policy formulation, and oversight can be structured to ensure accountability, inclusion, and tangible development for the people.”
The Abia lawmakers also observed plenary sessions and debates on the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Bill, gaining firsthand experience of how environmental and developmental policies are shaped through democratic dialogue and stakeholder consultation.
Reflecting on this, Hon. Akaliro noted, “Watching the British Parliament debate the BBNJ Bill showed us how deeply environmental governance is integrated into their national policy. It is a lesson in sustainability that we intend to replicate in Abia through effective policy-making and environmental protection laws.”
The delegation’s visit to the Islington City Council provided another layer of exposure, particularly in the areas of local governance, youth engagement, and sustainable urban development. Hon. Akaliro described the experience as both inspiring and practical.
“At Islington, we saw how a local council can efficiently drive development at the grassroots level through participatory governance and community-based initiatives,” he remarked. “It reaffirmed my belief that empowering our youth and strengthening our local institutions are key to lasting development in Abia.”
Hon. Akaliro also used the opportunity to commend Gov. Alex Otti for his visionary leadership and commitment to restoring credibility to Abia State.
“Dr Alex Otti’s administration has given us the moral strength to engage globally,” he said.
“Through his transparent governance and people-centered reforms, Abia is being recognized again on the global stage. This visit was made more meaningful because it aligns perfectly with the Governor’s reform agenda.”
Reaffirming his resolve to translate the lessons learned into action, Hon. Akaliro pledged to champion initiatives that would improve legislative efficiency, strengthen constituency engagement, and foster youth empowerment.
“Our visit to the UK is not just ceremonial,” he concluded. “It is a call to action. We are returning home better equipped to legislate, to serve, and to build a more progressive Abia State anchored on global best practices and accountable leadership.”
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