September 16, 2025 by Tony Akowe, Abuja
Kalu calls for review of UN funding to strengthen multilateralism
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has called for a review of the United Nations’ (UN) funding structure to promote a more balanced and genuinely multilateral system. Speaking at the 55th Session of the Steering Committee of the Parliamentary Conference on the World Trade Organization (WTO) at the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, Kalu reinforced Nigeria’s support for multilateralism and fair, inclusive trade that could boost the country’s economy and global standing. Presenting Nigeria’s input to the IPU draft resolution, Kalu noted that the current reliance on a few major donor countries allows them to dictate priorities, thereby undermining multilateralism.
He proposed reforms to limit donor dominance, foster equitable decision-making, and strengthen cooperation toward achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “Nigeria calls for a review of the current funding structure of the United Nations. The prevailing dependency on a few major donor countries allows these nations to dictate priorities embodied in the adage “he who pays the piper dictates the tune.” Powered by VidCrunchHe stressed that to ensure a balanced and truly multilateral system, the funding participation scope should be expanded to include a broader range of nations, thereby reducing undue influence and fostering equitable decision-making”, he had said at the New York meeting.
Kalu reaffirmed his commitment to reinforcing multilateralism and advancing fair and inclusive trade systems. He said, “I am honoured to join Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the WTO, alongside fellow Steering Committee Members from 8 other countries, including the European Parliament, on this global assignment to strengthen parliamentary engagement and interaction with the work of the WTO. “I remain committed to ensuring that Africa’s voice, and Nigeria’s voice in particular, resonates strongly in shaping the future of global trade governance.
“Our mission is to reinforce multilateralism, advance fair and inclusive trade, and guarantee that no nation is left behind in the evolving global economy”. The Deputy Speaker’s involvement aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), aiming to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure peace and prosperity for all.
