NILDS’ mission to contribute its expertise, providing the Republic of Benin with practical, strategic insights into parliamentary diplomacy.
– Prof. Abubakar Olarewaju Sulaiman
By Mujidat AbdulKareem,
The National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), under the National Assembly of Nigeria, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Parliament Institute of Benin (IPAB).
f a statement signed by the Media Adviser to the DG, NILDS, Mohammed Abdulkadri stated that, “The signing of MoU will further strengthening the bonds between Nigeria and Benin and fostering greater collaboration in legislative and democratic studies across West Africa.
Accordance to Abdulkadri, “The historic agreement signifies NILDS’ growing role as a premier research and training institute in the region, with a commitment to bridging the language divide and enhancing parliamentary diplomacy.
“The symbolic signing ceremony took place in Abuja, with top officials from both institutions present. Professor Abubakar Olanrewaju Sulaiman, Director General of NILDS, described the MoU as a testament to the enduring relationship between the two neighboring countries, which share similar cultures, historical experiences, and regional priorities.”
He emphasized NILDS’ mission to contribute its expertise, providing the Republic of Benin with practical, strategic insights into parliamentary diplomacy.
The statement further stated that, “Professor Sulaiman highlighted NILDS’ accomplishments and programs, noting that the institute has trained over 250 legislative drafters across Africa.
“Additionally, NILDS offers comprehensive Master’s and Ph.D. programs in various aspects of parliamentary relations and has pioneered training initiatives in the security sector. One of NILDS’ upcoming offerings is the “Advanced Executive Programme” (AEP), set to launch in January 2025.
Professor Sulaiman extended an invitation to IPAB to participate in the program, which will be coordinated by former Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega.”
The DG also provided an overview of NILDS’ leadership structure, underscoring the significant roles played by the Senate President, Godswill Obot Akpabio, who serves as Chairman of NILDS’ Governing Council, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, who is the Council’s Alternate Chairman.
He urged both parties to work towards overcoming language barriers, particularly between English and French, to facilitate effective communication and collaboration.
In their remarks, IPAB representatives, led by Professor Barthelemy Kassa, First Vice President of the Parliament of Benin, and Dr. Sedami Medegan Fagla, Director of IPAB, expressed their appreciation for NILDS’ hospitality and the opportunity to deepen their relationship.
They explained that the inspiration for the MoU was sparked during IPAB’s visit to NILDS in 2023. They noted that both IPAB and NILDS share a common vision as knowledge centers dedicated to supporting legislative bodies through research, training, and technical expertise.
IPAB’s delegation affirmed their commitment to upholding the MoU’s terms and collaborating with NILDS to achieve shared goals. They praised Professor Sulaiman for his leadership and for positioning NILDS as a beacon of knowledge and excellence in the region.
The ceremony concluded with the signing of the MoU, as well as the exchange of plaques and publications between the two institutions, symbolizing a mutual commitment to legislative development and democratic growth.
