The Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, has called for deeper reinforcement of democratic structures across West Africa, saying they are essential for addressing rising political and security pressures in the region.
He made the remarks in Abuja on Friday during the 2026 Voice of Nigeria Forum where he addressed regional governance and institutional resilience.
Barau said while democratic systems are foundational to governance, their true value is measured by how well they improve citizens’ welfare.
He said legislatures remain central to sustaining democracy, as they provide oversight, ensure accountability, and uphold constitutional governance. He noted that parliamentarians must continue to act as defenders of transparency and institutional integrity.
Barau, who also serves as the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, emphasised that Nigeria’s legislature will remain active in strengthening democratic processes, enhancing oversight functions, and promoting policies that encourage both national progress and regional cooperation.
He also said Nigerian lawmakers have consistently worked with counterparts across West Africa to deepen legislative diplomacy and support ECOWAS integration goals.
He added that democracy should ultimately be judged by its ability to deliver tangible improvements in the lives of citizens.
