Nigeria's Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has expressed his country's support for Hon. Milton Dick's bid for the presidency of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU). Akpabio made this statement during a visit by Dick to Abuja, where he sought the support of the Nigerian Parliament ahead of the IPU presidential election next month. Akpabio acknowledged Dick's experience within the IPU and his contributions to parliamentary diplomacy.
Akpabio highlighted Dick's impressive credentials, including his service as Vice President of the Asia-Pacific Group and leadership of several IPU delegations. He also noted Dick's commitment to impartiality, inclusion, and parliamentary diplomacy. Akpabio expressed confidence that Dick's leadership would strengthen the IPU. The Senate President emphasized Nigeria's importance on the IPU as an institution for parliamentary dialogue, democratic development, peace, and international cooperation.
Despite Akpabio's assurance of support, the African group within the IPU has yet to take a collective position on the election. The group is scheduled to meet on October 4, 2026, to discuss the matter. Akpabio assured Dick that he would be present at the meeting to ensure that his candidature is accepted. He expressed optimism that the African Group's decision would be in Dick's favour.
Akpabio also emphasized the need for stronger cooperation between Nigeria and Australia in various sectors, including mining, agriculture, education, renewable energy, technology, security, and capacity building. He encouraged Australian businessmen to invest in Nigeria, citing the country's large population and available market. Akpabio invited the Australian business community to explore investment opportunities in Nigeria.
The Senate President advocated for a strong parliamentary bridge between Africa and the Pacific, which could be built through collaboration between Nigeria and Australia. He expressed his desire to strengthen ties between the two countries and promote mutual understanding. Akpabio welcomed Dick's visit as an opportunity to open doors for future cooperation.
Earlier, Dick explained that he was advised to visit Nigeria to better understand Africa when he decided to contest the IPU presidency. He recognized Nigeria's leadership on the continent and acknowledged the country's importance in African affairs. Dick appreciated Akpabio's support for his bid and looked forward to working with Nigeria and other African countries.
The meeting between Akpabio and Dick highlights the significance of Nigeria's role in international parliamentary cooperation. The IPU presidential election is expected to take place next month, and Akpabio's assurance of support is a significant boost to Dick's candidature. The outcome of the African Group's meeting on October 4, 2026, will be crucial in determining the success of Dick's bid.
Key points
- Nigeria's Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, assures Australia's Speaker, Hon. Milton Dick, of support for his Inter-Parliamentary Union presidency bid.
- The African group within the IPU is scheduled to meet on October 4, 2026, to discuss Dick's candidature.
- Akpabio advocates for stronger cooperation between Nigeria and Australia in various sectors, including mining, agriculture, and renewable energy.
