The Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, has reiterated the need for the continuous strengthening of democratic institutions in the West African sub-region to withstand emerging political and security challenges.
Speaking at the 2026 Forum of the Voice of Nigeria (VON) in Abuja on Thursday, Barau said while democratic institutions are essential, the ultimate test of democracy lies in its ability to improve the lives of citizens.
Senator Barau, who is also the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, said: “Recent developments across parts of our region remind us that democratic institutions must continually be strengthened to withstand emerging political and security challenges.
“Let me reiterate that parliamentary institutions play a critical role in sustaining democratic governance. As representatives of the people, legislatures serve as the guardians of accountability, transparency, and constitutional order,” Barau said in a statement by his media aide, Ismail Mudashir.
He said the National Assembly will continue to play a vital role in strengthening democratic institutions, promoting legislative oversight, and advancing policies that support national development and regional cooperation.
“Nigeria’s parliamentarians have consistently engaged with their counterparts across the region in fostering dialogue, cooperation, and legislative diplomacy in support of ECOWAS’ broader objectives. While democratic institutions are essential, the ultimate test of democracy lies in its ability to improve the lives of citizens,” Senator Barau added.
While noting that Nigeria’s leadership role within ECOWAS is both a privilege and a responsibility, Barau said the country must continue to lead through example, partnership, and principled commitment to democratic values.