The President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has expressed his country's support for Milton Dick, the Speaker of the Australian House of Representatives, in his quest to become the next President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union. This assurance was given during a visit by Dick to Abuja, where he sought the backing of the Nigerian Parliament ahead of the forthcoming IPU presidential election. Akpabio, represented by Senator Yemi Adaramodu, highlighted Dick's extensive experience within the IPU.
Akpabio noted that Dick's experience, including his role as Vice President of the Asia-Pacific group and leadership of several IPU delegations, made him a suitable candidate for the position. He also emphasized Dick's commitment to impartiality, inclusion, and parliamentary diplomacy as qualities that would further strengthen the IPU. Akpabio expressed confidence that with Dick at the helm, the union would become even stronger and more effective in its operations.
The Nigerian Senate President underscored the importance of the IPU as a platform for parliamentary dialogue, democratic development, peace, and international cooperation. He also called for enhanced bilateral relations between Nigeria and Australia, particularly in areas such as mining, agriculture, education, renewable energy, technology, security, and capacity building. Akpabio encouraged Australian businesses to explore investment opportunities in Nigeria, citing the country's large population and market.
During his visit, Dick explained that he decided to seek the IPU presidency after being advised to visit Nigeria to better understand Africa and engage its parliamentary leadership. He acknowledged Nigeria's significant role in Africa and expressed gratitude for the country's contributions to democracy and the IPU. Dick promised to foster a strong relationship between Australia and Nigeria, regardless of the outcome of his bid for the IPU presidency.
The African group within the IPU is set to meet on October 4, 2026, to discuss Dick's candidature. Akpabio assured that he would be present at the meeting to ensure that Dick's bid is accepted. He expressed confidence that the African group's decision would be in favor of Dick. The IPU presidential election is scheduled to take place next month.
Akpabio's support for Dick's bid is seen as a significant boost to the Australian Speaker's campaign. Nigeria is a key player in the African group within the IPU, and Akpabio's endorsement is expected to influence the group's decision. Dick's commitment to impartiality and inclusion has been highlighted as a key asset in his bid for the IPU presidency.
The relationship between Nigeria and Australia is expected to strengthen in the coming months, with Akpabio urging Australian businesses to invest in Nigeria. The country's large population and market make it an attractive destination for investors. Akpabio's visit and Dick's bid for the IPU presidency are seen as significant developments in the bilateral relations between Nigeria and Australia.
Key points
- Nigeria's Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has pledged support for Australian Speaker Milton Dick's bid to become the next President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union.
- Akpabio highlighted Dick's experience within the IPU, including his role as Vice President of the Asia-Pacific group and leadership of several IPU delegations.
- The African group within the IPU is set to meet on October 4, 2026, to discuss Dick's candidature, with Akpabio assuring that he would ensure Dick's bid is accepted.
