The maiden African Legislative Aides Forum Conference has kicked off in Abuja, Nigeria, with a call to action to empower legislative aides as strategic drivers of parliamentary effectiveness in African nations. The three-day event, themed “Empowering Legislative Aides as Strategic Drivers of Parliamentary Effectiveness in African Nations,” brought together parliamentary leaders, delegates from across Africa, and distinguished members of the diplomatic community.
In his welcome address, High Chief (Barr.) Emeka Nwala, Chairman of the National Assembly Legislative Aides’ Forum, emphasized the importance of the conference in addressing Africa’s ever-changing legislative support challenges. He expressed his delight in receiving parliamentary leaders and delegates, wishing them a pleasant stay in Abuja, one of the most beautiful and modern cities in the world.
Nwala highlighted the collapse of democracy and parliament in some African countries, resulting in the return of military autocratic regimes, as a stark reminder of the need for legislative aides to play a crucial role in consolidating democratic institutions in Africa. He thanked the leadership of the National Assembly, particularly the President of the Senate, Senator Dr. Godswill Akpabio, for their backing, which has contributed to the success of the event.
The conference aims to encourage capacity development and professionalism among legislative aides and other key parliamentary drivers in Africa. It also seeks to develop a programmatic approach to enable African legislative aides to contribute to parliamentary transformation in the region.
The event features the inauguration of the African Legislative Aides Forum, which is expected to provide a platform for legislative aides to mutually pursue their collective mission of supporting the strengthening of democratic and parliamentary structures in Africa.
The keynote speech was delivered by the Speaker of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly of South Sudan, Rt. Hon. Jemma Nunu Kumba, who shared insights on the role of legislative aides in driving parliamentary effectiveness.
The conference has garnered support from various stakeholders, including the diplomatic corps and planning committee members, who have contributed to its success.
In his closing remarks, Nwala expressed gratitude to all participants and contributors, wishing them a productive and fulfilling experience at the conference.
(authority ngr)