Senate President Godswill Akpabio arrived in Luanda, Angola, on Sunday, to lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 147th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly. The event is hosted by the National Assembly of Angola and is scheduled to take place from October 21 to October 27, 2023.
Accompanied by four Senators and five members of the House of Representatives, Senator Akpabio was warmly welcomed at the Luanda International Airport by the Nigerian Ambassador to Angola, Prof Monique Oshame Ekpong, and senior officials of the Angolan government, led by Joao Diogo Gaspar, Deputy Secretary of UIP Angola.
Upon arrival, Mr. Gaspar expressed Angola’s honor at the presence of the Nigerian Senate President at the IPU Assembly. He emphasized that Senator Akpabio’s attendance, along with the Nigerian delegation, would not only strengthen the ties between Nigeria and Angola but also promote collaboration among African nations to reach a consensus on issues affecting the continent.
Senator Akpabio conveyed his delight in attending the IPU Assembly hosted by Angola and commended the Angolan Government for their robust bilateral relations with Nigeria. He emphasized the importance of Nigeria’s strong delegation, stating, “Our presence here is to ensure that our bilateral relationship is strengthened. With our presence, we can forge a strong bilateral parliamentary relationship for the interest of our nations.”
Immediately upon arrival, Senator Akpabio led Nigeria’s delegation to the inaugural meeting of The African Group at the IPU Assembly.
The 147th IPU Assembly is an essential platform for parliamentarians, partner organizations, and experts to exchange best practices and commit to the overarching theme of “Parliamentary action for peace, justice, and strong institutions.” This theme closely aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16, which emphasizes the importance of peace, justice, and strong institutions as key enablers for the entire development agenda.
The Assembly aims to explore strategies to strengthen trust between people and governance structures, enhance the effectiveness, accountability, and representation of public institutions, and empower parliaments to address the interconnected geopolitical, economic, and environmental challenges facing the world.
Senator Godswill Akpabio’s leadership at the IPU Assembly signifies Nigeria’s commitment to fostering positive relationships, not only with Angola but across the African continent, to work collaboratively towards the betterment of the region and the world.
