Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has celebrated Niger’s dedication to inclusive governance during the inauguration of their Consultative Council for Rebuilding in Niamey.
Speaker Bagbin, addressing a gathering of Nigerien leaders, traditional authorities, religious representatives, and international guests on Saturday, June 28, hailed the council’s creation as a “historic milestone,” drawing parallels with Ghana’s history of participatory governance.
“The establishment of this Consultative Council represents more than an institutional innovation. It embodies the aspiration of the people of Niger for meaningful engagement towards participatory governance,” Speaker Bagbin stated.
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This significant event marks a new phase for Niger following the political events of July 2023.
Speaking on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, Speaker Bagbin conveyed Ghana’s strong support for Niger and fellow Alliance of Sahel States (AES) members, Mali and Burkina Faso, in their combined efforts to combat terrorism and advance development in the region.
“President Mahama asked me to reiterate, on this memorable occasion, that Ghana stands by the Republic of Niger and all AES countries. Our historical and blood ties demand that we work together to defeat terrorism and enhance trade,” he announced.
He revealed President Mahama’s appointment of a Special Envoy to the AES, underscoring Ghana’s firm dedication to fostering regional collaboration and peace.
Speaker Bagbin was accompanied by Hon. Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, a Member of Parliament and daughter of Ghana’s former leader, H.E. Jerry John Rawlings. He pointed out that Niger’s approach of consultation mirrors Ghana’s own experience in the early 1990s, where a similar assembly played a crucial role in shaping the country’s current democratic structure.
“Your country is therefore on the right path. Ghana’s 1992 constitution was the product of a similar process, involving market women, artisans, workers, and traditional leaders – just like what Niger is doing today,” Speaker Bagbin noted.
He also encouraged the newly formed council to examine Ghana’s ongoing Constitutional Review process and extended an invitation for Nigerien observers to learn from Ghana’s experiences.
In a passionate address to the council members, Speaker Bagbin emphasized the significant responsibility they carry, not only for Niger but for the entire Sahel sub-region.
“Let your deliberations be guided by wisdom, your decisions by justice, and your actions by the common good. You bear the hopes, aspirations, and dreams—not only of millions of Nigeriens—but also of the people, particularly the youth, of the whole sub-region,” he urged.
Reaffirming the deep and lasting bonds between Ghana and Niger, the Speaker advocated for continued regional cooperation and mutual support across West Africa.
“May this Consultative Council serve as a beacon of hope for our entire continent. Ghana stands ready to support Niger’s rebuilding journey. You will never walk alone,” he stated.
The inauguration was also attended by notable figures including H.E. Mahaman Lamine Zeine, Prime Minister of Niger, Dr. Mamoudu Harouna Djingarey, Paramount Chief of Zinder and President of the Council, along with Foreign Minister H.E. Bakary Yaou Sangaré and Interior Minister H.E. Mohammed Touba, among other dignitaries.