The Deputy President of the Senate, Barau I. Jibrin, has underscored the need for sustained efforts to strengthen democratic institutions across West Africa in order to withstand emerging political and security challenges.
The According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, Barau stated this while speaking as Special Guest of Honour at the 2026 forum organised by Voice of Nigeria (VON) at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja on Thursday, the lawmaker noted that while the region has recorded notable democratic progress, the journey remains ongoing.
The forum, themed “51 Years of Nigeria’s Role in Deepening Democratic Stability in ECOWAS,” drew participants from across sectors, including media professionals, diplomats, parliamentarians, security officials, and traditional rulers.
Jibrin, who also serves as First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, stressed that the resilience of democratic institutions is critical to maintaining stability in the sub-region. He, however, noted that the true measure of democracy lies in its ability to improve citizens’ welfare.
“Recent developments across parts of our region remind us that democratic institutions must continually be strengthened to withstand emerging political and security challenges,” he said.
Highlighting the role of legislatures, the Deputy Senate President described parliamentary institutions as central to democratic governance, noting that they serve as custodians of accountability, transparency, and constitutional order.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the National Assembly of Nigeria to advancing legislative oversight, promoting national development, and supporting regional cooperation through strategic policymaking.
According to him, Nigerian lawmakers have continued to engage their counterparts within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to foster dialogue, strengthen legislative diplomacy, and advance shared regional objectives.
Jibrin further stated that Nigeria’s leadership within ECOWAS comes with both privilege and responsibility, urging the country to lead by example through strong institutions and adherence to democratic principles.
He also called on the media to play a more proactive role in shaping Africa’s global narrative, warning against the dangers of misinformation.
“In a time when misinformation can easily distort public discourse, credible media institutions remain indispensable to the preservation of democratic culture,” he said.
The Deputy Senate President concluded by urging stakeholders to remain committed to building inclusive, responsive, and resilient democratic systems, noting that the future of West Africa depends on collective dedication to peace, governance, and regional solidarity.
