The Nigerian National Assembly joined other member states on Monday to commemorate Commonwealth Day 2025, reaffirming its dedication to democracy, human rights, global peace, inclusivity, and sustainable development.
With the theme “Together We Thrive,” the event underscored Nigeria’s active role in the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, CPA, and its commitment to fostering youth engagement and international cooperation.
Addressing attendees, Abbas Tajudeen, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, emphasised Nigeria’s unwavering support for democratic principles and governance reforms.
“The National Assembly remains dedicated to strengthening democracy by supporting policies that promote social and economic inclusion, human rights, and environmental sustainability. We will continue to engage in Commonwealth parliamentary dialogue to share best practices and learn from other nations to enhance our governance,” said Mark Esset, Chairman of the House Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Affairs, who represented the Speaker.
As part of the celebration, the National Assembly engaged 60 students from various secondary schools across Nigeria, educating them on the workings of the Commonwealth, the CPA, and the importance of youth participation in governance.
Reiterating Nigeria’s long-standing engagement with the CPA, the Speaker recalled that Nigeria hosted the 56th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Abuja in 2006 and remains an active participant in Commonwealth affairs. He highlighted key Nigerian representatives, including Tolu Sadipe, who serves as the West Africa Regional Representative, and Mark Esset as the Branch Representative. He also commended Zainab Gimba for her successful tenure as chairperson of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians, CWP.
The Speaker reinforced the National Assembly’s stance on recognising the CPA as an international organisation rather than a UK-registered charity, noting that a corresponding bill has already passed in the UK House of Commons.
He also urged the House Committee on Youth Affairs and the Directorate of Inter-Parliamentary Affairs to establish a structured mentorship programme to foster youth involvement in legislative activities.
“Our young people are the future of our democracy. We must not only educate them on governance but also empower them through mentorship initiatives like the Legislative Mentorship Initiative,” he stressed.
In his remarks, B.A. Yero, Deputy Clerk of the National Assembly, representing the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, reiterated the significance of the Commonwealth Day celebration.
“The theme ‘Together We Thrive’ reminds us that despite differences in geography, culture, and history, we share common aspirations for justice, equality, and progress. Addressing challenges such as climate change, insecurity, and economic instability requires collaboration,” he stated.
As part of the commemoration, Elder Godwin Okon Ekpenyong, Secretary of the Directorate of Inter-Parliamentary Relations and Protocol, delivered the King’s Commonwealth Day Message for 2025, originally published on 9 March.
The message reflected on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, honouring the 1.5 million Commonwealth soldiers who fought for global peace. The King emphasised the importance of international cooperation in upholding democracy, human rights, and environmental sustainability.
CREDIT: DAILY POST