University of Calabar confers PhD in law on Reps Deputy Speaker Kalu
The University of Calabar has conferred a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Law on the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, at its 38th convocation ceremony. The institution also
The University of Calabar has conferred a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Law on the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, at its 38th convocation ceremony.
The institution also recognised Kalu’s doctoral research as one of the most outstanding, earning it a place in the university’s Achievement Exhibition on Contribution to Knowledge.
Speaking on behalf of the PhD graduating class, Kalu described the doctoral journey as rigorous and transformative, reflecting on the sacrifices required to attain the qualification.
Quoting Aristotle, he said, “The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet,” noting that the achievement represents resilience, discipline, and intellectual growth.
He highlighted the demands of doctoral studies, including long hours of research and critical thinking, stressing that the attainment of a PhD goes beyond academic recognition to a deeper responsibility to society.
Kalu described the moment as particularly significant, recalling that the University of Calabar had shaped his academic path, having previously earned his LL.B and LL.M degrees from the institution.
He urged fellow graduands to ensure that their research contributes meaningfully to societal development, emphasising that knowledge must translate into practical solutions.
Citing Nelson Mandela, he said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,” while encouraging graduates to embrace their role as drivers of change.
Referencing data from the National Bureau of Statistics, Kalu noted that fewer than 100,000 Nigerians hold doctoral degrees out of a population exceeding 220 million, placing the graduates in a select group with a duty to provide intellectual leadership.
On his legislative agenda, he reaffirmed his commitment to expanding access to education through initiatives such as the establishment of the Federal College of Education, Bende; the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Item Bende; and the Federal University, Okigwe.
He described these projects as strategic investments in the country’s long-term development and urged fellow PhD holders to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world impact.
Kalu also expressed appreciation to the university’s Governing Council, Senate, academic staff, and his supervisors for their support and for recognising his research contribution.
