Godswill Akpabio, the President of the Senate and chairman of Nigeria’s National Assembly, has underscored the importance of bolstering efforts in parliamentary diplomacy. Speaking at the 148th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union and Related Meetings convened in Geneva, Switzerland, Akpabio emphasized the pivotal role of parliamentary diplomacy in fostering global peace and conflict resolution.
A statement released by Jackson Udom, Akpabio’s special assistant on Media (Print), outlined the Senate president’s call for intensified engagement in parliamentary diplomacy. While acknowledging the strides made by the Nigerian Parliament in this realm, Akpabio stressed the need for further progress.
He remarked, “The Parliament in Nigeria has played a crucial role in curbing polarization and ensuring peace through legislation,” highlighting the legislative body’s efforts in mediation to address conflicts involving non-governmental organizations, government entities, and labor unions.
Akpabio shared insights into the accomplishments and initiatives of the 10th National Assembly under his leadership, emphasizing the significance of collective action in shaping a brighter future amidst contemporary challenges. He urged global recognition of the collective voice’s potency in shaping a better world.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s diverse cultural landscape, Akpabio acknowledged the challenges posed by polarization along various lines and underscored the government’s commitment, with parliamentary support, to fostering peace, collaboration, and unity.
The Senate president underscored Nigeria’s active contributions to international peace and security, including troop deployments for peacekeeping missions and engagement in conflict prevention and resolution efforts through regional parliamentary forums.
Highlighting the role of parliamentary friendship groups in strengthening international ties and promoting democratic values, Akpabio stressed the importance of preventive diplomacy in conflict resolution.
He highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to combating insecurity, particularly through initiatives such as the establishment of the National Center for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, aimed at curbing illicit arms circulation in West Africa.
Akpabio also lauded the Nigerian Parliament’s achievements in upholding international commitments, promoting peace-building, and holding the government accountable. However, he called for further progress in parliamentary diplomacy and peace-building capacity across sovereign states.
Drawing inspiration from Martin Luther King, Jr., Akpabio emphasized the interconnectedness of humanity and the collective responsibility to shape a brighter future. He urged unity in the pursuit of a more equitable world, emphasizing the role of parliamentarians as custodians of hope for a better tomorrow.
