Senator Orji Kalu Pushes Stronger Food, Drug Regulation, Foreign Aid Transparency in Senate
By Ranmilowo Ojalumo -The Senator representing Abia North Senatorial District, Orji Uzor Kalu, has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s public health system and promoting transparency in governance through active participation in the consideration of key legislative proposals before the Senate.
At the Senate plenary on Wednesday, Kalu participated in the passage for second reading of critical bills aimed at modernising Nigeria’s food and drug regulatory framework as well as establishing greater transparency, coordination and accountability in the management of foreign aid, grants and donations.
According to the former Abia State governor, the proposed legislation reflects his commitment to protecting public health, promoting fiscal accountability and safeguarding Nigeria’s national interest through effective lawmaking.
“Optimising my zeal towards strengthening public health, promoting fiscal accountability, protecting lives and safeguarding our national interest remain central to our legislative responsibilities,” Kalu stated.
He explained that the bill on food and drug regulation seeks to strengthen Nigeria’s regulatory system to ensure safer medicines, food products and other consumables, while enhancing the capacity of relevant agencies to tackle counterfeit and substandard products that pose serious risks to public health.
The senator added that the proposed legislation on the management of foreign aid, grants and donations is designed to improve transparency and accountability in the utilisation of development assistance, ensuring that such resources deliver maximum benefits to Nigerians.
Beyond the health and governance-related bills, Kalu also threw his weight behind a Senate motion calling for improved safety in Nigeria’s mining sector following increasing concerns over mining-related accidents and illegal mining activities across the country.
He stressed that protecting the lives of Nigerians, strengthening institutions and ensuring accountability remain essential responsibilities of the National Assembly.
Kalu reaffirmed his resolve to continue supporting legislative initiatives that promote public welfare, strengthen national institutions and contribute to sustainable national development, noting that effective laws remain critical to addressing the country’s socio-economic and public health challenges
