Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has expressed the parliament’s readiness to partner with the International Trade Centre (ITC) to enhance Nigeria’s digital economy. He also hinted at establishing food processing centers in the South East region through the Peace In South East Project (PISE-P).
Kalu praised ITC’s contributions to Nigeria’s economic development and West Africa, acknowledging their projects, including the EU-funded WACOMP program and the GIZ-funded ECOWAS Agricultural Trade (EAT) program. He expressed interest in collaborating with ITC to leverage community digital hubs for local onboarding and training in the IDEAS program’s digitization and e-commerce aspects.
The partnership aims to empower local businesses, bridge the digital divide, and ensure inclusive growth. Kalu emphasized the need to address socio-economic challenges and promote peace and development in the South East region. The ITC delegation, led by Ms. Natasha Aniekwu, expressed interest in partnering with the Deputy Speaker’s office to make e-commerce more accessible and beneficial for SMEs in disadvantaged areas.
This collaboration has the potential to boost Nigeria’s digital economy, enhance competitiveness, and promote inclusive growth.
LV