The Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has urged African parliaments to unite and speak with a common voice as global politics continues to change rapidly.
Abbas said legislatures across the continent must play a stronger role in defending Africa’s interests and shaping outcomes within the evolving international system.
He made the call on Saturday at the 3rd General Assembly of the Conference of Speakers and Presidents of African Legislatures (CoSPAL) held in Rabat, Morocco.
According to a statement issued on Sunday, Abbas noted that technological advances, security challenges, and ongoing conflicts are reshaping societies and weakening fragile regions across the world, with Africa facing both risks and opportunities.
“Africa is young, resource-rich and strategically placed, yet vulnerable to weak institutions and poor regional coordination,” he said, stressing that parliaments must respond with vision and leadership.
The Speaker said the changing global environment affects food security, energy markets, migration, access to technology and the fight against terrorism and organised crime, adding that African voices must be heard more clearly in global discussions on trade, health and climate change.
He argued that legislative leadership should focus on building strong institutions, holding the executive accountable, protecting public resources and promoting inclusive economic growth.
Abbas also called for laws that would boost investor confidence and unlock economic opportunities for Africa’s growing youth population.
Highlighting Nigeria’s role, he said the National Assembly has prioritised oversight, reforms and parliamentary diplomacy to support national and continental goals.
“Parliamentary diplomacy is no longer optional. It is a strategic necessity for Africa,” Abbas said, adding that it helps build alliances, prevent conflict and strengthen economic and security cooperation.
He noted that Nigeria continues to work with ECOWAS, the African Union and neighbouring countries to address security threats and strengthen continental institutions.
Abbas also praised the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, for leading CoSPAL as its pioneer chairman, describing the platform as vital for legislative cooperation across Africa.
CoSPAL was created to promote collaboration among African parliaments and provide a unified forum to address governance, democracy, security, development and Africa’s.
