DEPUTY SENATE PRESIDENT, SENATOR BARAU I. JIBRIN, REPRESENTS NIGERIA AT 68TH COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE IN BARBADOS.
By Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu Democracy Newsline Newspaper
10th October 2025
Bridgetown, Barbados – Nigeria’s Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, is currently participating in the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC), taking place in Bridgetown, Barbados. The high-level event is hosted by the Parliament of Barbados and the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Barbados Branch.
The week-long conference, which has drawn parliamentary leaders and lawmakers from over 180 legislatures across the Commonwealth, is focused on the theme “The Commonwealth – A Global Partner.” This year’s theme sets the tone for in-depth discussions on the evolving role of the Commonwealth in addressing global political challenges, deepening democratic practices, and fostering inclusive governance across member nations.
Senator Barau, who is representing Nigeria at the conference, described the gathering as an essential platform for building partnerships and sharing knowledge that will ultimately strengthen democratic institutions back home.
> “We will continue to explore opportunities and collaborate with our counterparts worldwide to strengthen our institutions in line with international best practices,” Senator Barau stated during a session with fellow parliamentarians.
The Deputy Senate President emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to active engagement within the Commonwealth framework, highlighting that the shared values of democracy, development, and diversity are critical to addressing the pressing challenges faced by member states.
Founded in 1911, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association remains one of the oldest and most influential institutions within the Commonwealth. Its mission is to promote understanding of constitutional, legislative, economic, social, and cultural dimensions of parliamentary democracy, particularly in the context of Commonwealth nations.
With over a century of history, the CPA has become a vibrant network of more than 180 parliaments and legislatures—including Nigeria’s National Assembly—dedicated to fostering democratic values, accountability, and good governance.
The 68th CPC features a robust agenda including plenary sessions, workshops, and bilateral meetings. Key discussions are centered around climate change, digital transformation, youth inclusion in politics, gender equality, and conflict resolution—areas that resonate deeply with Nigeria’s legislative and development goals.
Senator Barau’s presence at the conference underscores Nigeria’s influential role in shaping the future of parliamentary diplomacy within the Commonwealth and beyond. His participation also aligns with the Senate’s broader commitment to reforming and modernizing legislative processes in line with global standards.
As the conference continues, Nigeria’s delegation remains actively involved in dialogues that aim to foster cooperation, innovation, and unity among the diverse yet interconnected member states of the Commonwealth.
