Editor
The Nigeria House of Representatives participates in the global observance of International Day of Parliamentarism (World Parliament Day) today, acknowledging the crucial role that parliaments play in advancing democracy, effective governance, and upholding the rule of law.
Designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2018 and coordinated by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), this event is observed annually on June 30.
The focus of this year’s World Parliament Day is on the significant contributions made by parliamentarian to international collaboration and conflict resolution, in line with the theme of the 148th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union: “Parliamentary Diplomacy: Constructing Bridges for Peace and Mutual Understanding.”
We appreciate the significance of parliamentary diplomacy in establishing connections between nations, fostering peace, and encouraging comprehension.
The 10th House of Representatives, which commenced its term on June 13, 2023, took a substantial stride towards promoting global legislative collaboration by setting up 71 Parliamentary Friendship Groups. These groups are dedicated to bolstering Nigeria’s diplomatic relations and fostering mutually beneficial partnerships with other countries, thereby enhancing peace, understanding, and cooperation on a global scale.
Most recently, the actions of the National Assembly Delegation at the previous IPU Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, showcased Nigeria’s dedication to worldwide peace and humanitarian values. Led by the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, the Nigerian delegation urged parliamentarian worldwide to boldly advocate for global efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, garnering international acclaim for our nation and emphasizing Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to global peace, security, and humanitarian principles.
In his address for this year’s commemoration, the Speaker of the Nigeria House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, expressed:
“As we mark World Parliament Day, we reaffirm our dedication to parliamentary diplomacy and international collaboration. “We understand that our responsibilities extend beyond national boundaries, and we must collaborate to tackle global challenges and promote peace, security, and sustainable development. Let us persist in constructing bridges, nurturing understanding, and reinforcing our joint endeavors towards a more inclusive and prosperous world for all.”
As a parliamentary body, we will persist in showcasing innovative legislative approaches, inclusive decision-making procedures, and impactful outcomes that benefit the Nigerian populace.
In light of this, as part of the activities heralding the commencement of the Second Session of the 10th Assembly, we are advancing our Legislative Agenda on Inclusion and Open Parliament with the inaugural Legislative Open Week from July 3 to July 5, 2024.
This endeavor aims to promote an open parliament and encourage citizen engagement in legislative and governance processes. Therefore, we extend an invitation to the Nigerian public and all stakeholders to partake in these activities and join us in constructing a more inclusive, fair, and prosperous nation, where no individual is left behind.
