President of Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has made a strong case for increased efforts in parliamentary diplomacy.
Akpabio, at the 148th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union and Related Meetings, held in Geneva, Switzerland, on Sunday, maintained that parliamentary diplomacy is critical to achieving peace in the world and resolving conflicts.
He called for more progress in parliamentary diplomacy, noting that though the Nigerian Parliament has explored the concept and achieved a myriad of successes, more can still be done.
According to him, “the Parliament in Nigeria has played a crucial role in curbing polarisation and ensuring peace through legislation”.
Apart from the legislative function, Akpabio says the Parliament also “employs mediation to address conflicts between non-governmental organisations and the government, as well as disputes involving labour unions.”
Senator Akpabio, who shared the progress and initiatives of the 10th National Assembly under his leadership, said it has become imperative for the world to recognise the power of the collective voice in shaping a better future for all, as it is at a critical juncture in history.
He noted that, “the government, with the support of the Parliament, has embarked on efforts to strengthen peace, collaboration, and unity.
Akpabio stated that “the achievements of the Nigerian Parliament in upholding international commitments, promoting peace-building, and holding the government accountable, are laudable”.
He, however, called for “more progress in parliamentary diplomacy and increase in peace-building capacity, not only in Nigeria but across all sovereign States
(EDITOR: TIENABESO BIBIYE)
