Reps pledge deeper parliamentary diplomacy

The House of Representatives has reiterated its commitment to deepening parliamentary diplomacy and international cooperation as part of its role in promoting democracy and good governance.

The legislative chamber pledged on Sunday on the occasion of this year’s World Parliament Day.

Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2018 and led by the Inter-Parliamentary Union, World Parliament Day is marked yearly on June 30.

A statement issued by the spokesman for the House, Akin Rotimi on Sunday, read in part, “As we celebrate World Parliament Day, we reaffirm our commitment to parliamentary diplomacy and international cooperation.

“We recognise that our role goes beyond national borders, and we must work together to address global challenges and promote peace, security, and sustainable development. Let us continue to build bridges, foster understanding, and strengthen our collective efforts towards a more inclusive and prosperous world for all.

“Today (Sunday), the Nigeria House of Representatives joins parliaments worldwide in commemorating International Day of Parliamentarism also known as World Parliament Day, a celebration of the vital role parliaments play in promoting democracy, good governance, and the rule of law.

“This year’s World Parliament Day focuses on the critical role parliamentarians play in international cooperation and conflict resolution, aligning with the theme of the 148th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union: ‘Parliamentary Diplomacy: Building Bridges for Peace and Understanding.’ “

While recognising the role of parliamentary diplomacy in building bridges between nations, the House image maker noted that upon its inauguration on June 13, 2023, “Took a significant step towards fostering global legislative cooperation by establishing 71 Parliamentary Friendship Groups. These groups are dedicated to strengthening Nigeria’s diplomatic ties and promoting mutually beneficial relationships with other nations, thereby enhancing peace, understanding, and cooperation worldwide.”

The statement recalled that recently, the actions of the National Assembly delegation to the last Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, “Demonstrated Nigeria’s commitment to global peace and humanitarian principles.

“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 rallied parliamentarians worldwide to boldly advocate for global action in addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, earning our country international commendation and underscoring Nigeria’s steadfast commitment to global peace, security, and humanitarian values.”

As part of activities heralding the commencement of the second session of the 10th Assembly, the statement noted that the House is furthering its Legislative Agenda on Inclusion and Open Parliament with the inaugural Legislative Open Week slated for July 3 to July 5, 2024.

“This initiative aims to foster an open parliament and promote citizens’ engagement in legislative and governance processes. We, therefore, invite the Nigerian public and all stakeholders to participate in these activities and join us in building a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous country, where no one is left behind,” the statements further read.