Deputy President of the Senate, Jibrin Barau, has called for stronger democratic institutions across West Africa, stressing that resilient governance structures are essential to tackling the region’s growing political and security challenges.
He made the call on Thursday in Abuja while speaking at a forum organised by Voice of Nigeria, where stakeholders gathered to assess Nigeria’s role in promoting democratic stability within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Barau noted that although the region has recorded progress in democratic governance, more effort is needed to consolidate those gains. He emphasised the importance of legislatures in ensuring accountability, transparency, and constitutional order, describing them as central to sustaining democracy.
He also assured that Nigeria’s National Assembly would continue to strengthen legislative oversight and promote policies that enhance governance and regional cooperation. According to him, ongoing engagements with lawmakers across West Africa are helping to deepen collaboration and support ECOWAS objectives.
The lawmaker further stressed that democracy must deliver real benefits to citizens, urging governments in the region to prioritise people-focused policies. He highlighted Nigeria’s leadership role within ECOWAS, noting that it comes with the responsibility to uphold democratic values and promote regional stability.
Barau also urged the media to play a more active role in shaping accurate narratives about Africa, warning that misinformation could weaken public trust and democratic systems.
Meanwhile, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan called for increased inclusion of women in leadership and knowledge spaces, stressing the importance of documenting women’s contributions to society.
Speaking at the WikiGap Nigeria Symposium 2026 in Abuja, she noted that the lack of visibility for women in knowledge systems contributes to their exclusion from positions of power. She encouraged media professionals and content creators to highlight women’s achievements and ensure their stories are preserved.
The senator also urged women to actively participate in knowledge creation and pledged financial support for initiatives aimed at documenting the contributions of notable Nigerian women.
Both interventions highlighted the need for inclusive governance and stronger institutions as key drivers of sustainable development in Nigeria and the wider West African region.
