Nigeria and Senegal have expressed commitment to strengthen bilateral and parliamentary relations, following a high-level meeting between the president of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and speaker of the Senegalese Parliament, on the sidelines of the Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly.
Receiving the Senegalese delegation, Akpabio stressed the importance of closer legislative collaboration in promoting democratic governance and regional stability.
He noted Nigeria’s longstanding leadership role in conflict resolution across West Africa, particularly in addressing political challenges in countries such as Guinea-Bissau, and reaffirmed the country’s readiness to continue working with Senegal and other partners to sustain peace and strengthen democratic institutions in the sub-region.
The senate president highlighted the role of Nigeria’s bicameral National Assembly in shaping governance outcomes, noting that effective parliamentary leadership remains central to the country’s democratic process.
Akpabio also commended the rise of a new generation of African leaders, describing the Senegalese Speaker, Amadou Mame Diop, as part of a dynamic leadership committed to advancing governance and cooperation on the continent.
In his response, Diop expressed appreciation for the warm reception and reaffirmed Senegal’s commitment to deepening its longstanding ties with Nigeria.
He described the relationship between the two countries as “historic and strategic,” rooted in shared cultural and ethnic connections.
The Senegalese Speaker highlighted opportunities for enhanced economic cooperation, particularly in the energy sector, noting Senegal’s recent entry into oil production and the potential to benefit from Nigeria’s experience in the industry.
He also pointed to the increasing presence of Nigerian investors in Senegal as evidence of strong bilateral relations.
Both leaders emphasised the importance of strengthening cooperation within the Economic Community of West African States, noting that regional integration, economic collaboration, and institutional stability are vital to Africa’s development.
They called for improved connectivity across West Africa, enhanced trade linkages, and greater cooperation in key sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, and energy to boost resilience amid global economic uncertainties.
Akpabio reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to promoting democracy, safeguarding constitutional order, and supporting regional peace initiatives, while urging renewed efforts to overcome historical divisions and foster a more united and integrated West Africa.
He also extended a formal invitation to the Senegalese Speaker to visit Abuja, expressing optimism that continued engagement would further strengthen ties between both nations and advance regional prosperity.
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