By Calabar, Nigeria – The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has awarded full scholarships to two orphans at Infant Jesus Orphanage in Calabar, Cross River State, covering their education from primary school to university.
During his visit, Kalu also donated ₦2 million in cash and provided food supplies to the orphanage. His visit was part of activities marking the 37th Convocation Ceremony and 50th Anniversary celebrations of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), his alma mater, where he delivered the convocation lecture.
The beneficiaries, 12-year-old twins Chidera Emmanuela Maduka and Chimankpa Emmanuel Maduka, had expressed their desire to study law when Kalu asked the children about their career aspirations.
Moved by Kalu’s generosity, members of the House of Representatives who accompanied him contributed an additional ₦1 million, while his former classmates from the UNICAL Faculty of Law, Class of ’98, donated ₦300,000. Additionally, Anambra APC chieftain, Mr. Johnbosco Onunkwo, contributed ₦200,000, and members of the Peace in South East Project (PISE-P) donated ₦500,000, bringing the total donation to ₦4 million.
Speaking at the orphanage, Kalu reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the children’s education and welfare.
“We will take over the education of Chidera and Chimankpa up to university level. I am proud that they want to study law, and we will pay their school fees.
“We have also brought food supplies and will continue to provide more, including toiletries. The people here are your fathers and mothers. We will appoint a committee to oversee your welfare.
“Aside from the food items, I am personally donating ₦2 million, alongside ₦200,000 from friends of Benjamin Kalu, ₦1 million from members of the House of Representatives here with me, ₦300,000 from my classmates, and ₦500,000 from PISE-P members.”
Addressing journalists after the visit, Kalu stressed the need for long-term support rather than one-time donations.
“We are setting up a sustainable program to secure their future. Some of these children dream of becoming lawyers, just like my classmates and me. That is why I have awarded them scholarships up to law school—to inspire them and promote education.
“I once studied under a tree because we had no classroom. But today, through education, I have built schools where I once sat. These children have the potential to become future leaders.”
The coordinator of Infant Jesus Orphanage, Sister Chinyere Chukwuka, expressed gratitude for the donations, offering prayers for Kalu and his team.
“We appreciate you all. May God bless your families, businesses, and offices, and keep you safe from harm. As you have remembered us today, you too will be remembered.”
Kalu’s visit underscores his ongoing commitment to education and social welfare, particularly for vulnerable children.
