The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has assured the Speaker of the Australian House of Representatives, Hon. Milton Dick, of Nigeria’s support for his candidature for the Presidency of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU).
Akpabio gave the assurance on Monday when Hon. Dick visited Abuja to solicit the support of the leadership of the Nigerian Parliament ahead of the election for the Presidency of the IPU scheduled for next month.
Receiving the Australian Speaker, the Senate President acknowledged his experience and contributions to the IPU, including his service as Vice President of the Asia-Pacific Group and leadership of several IPU delegations.
Speaking on the candidature, Akpabio said the materials presented by the Australian delegation demonstrated Hon. Dick’s commitment to impartiality, inclusion and parliamentary diplomacy.
“On IPU, which is the reason why you came, I have taken note of your candidature for the Presidency of the IPU and of your experience within the organisation, including your service as Vice President of the Asia-Pacific Group and leadership of several IPU delegations,” he said.
Akpabio expressed confidence that the IPU would be strengthened under Hon. Dick’s leadership, stressing that his experience and commitment would contribute to the growth and effectiveness of the organization.
“I must say that with you as President of IPU, IPU can only wax stronger, IPU can only improve,” the Senate President said.
He further noted the importance of complementing the leadership of the IPU Secretary-General with a President committed to parliamentary diplomacy and international cooperation.
“It is important that we complement a woman Secretary-General that we have elected with a man like you who has always shown very serious commitment,” Akpabio said.
The Senate President, however, acknowledged that the African Group within the IPU would have to meet and deliberate on the candidature before taking a collective position.
He disclosed that the African Group was scheduled to meet soon, assuring Hon. Dick that he would personally attend the meeting and advocate for his candidature.
“We are not saying that the African Group in IPU will not have divergent views. We are yet to meet. I will be there to make sure that your candidature is accepted. The African Group will meet. I assure you their decision will be in your favour,” he said.
Akpabio said Nigeria attaches great importance to the Inter-Parliamentary Union as an important platform for parliamentary dialogue, democratic development, peace and international cooperation.
He expressed Nigeria’s interest in hearing the Australian candidate’s vision for the organisation, particularly his plans for strengthening the voice and participation of Africa, the Pacific and developing countries within the IPU.
The Senate President also called for stronger bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and Australia, particularly in the areas of mining, agriculture, education, renewable energy, technology, security and capacity building.
Akpabio urged Australian businesses and investors to explore the enormous opportunities available in Nigeria, emphasizing the country’s large population, vast market and abundant economic potential.
“If you have businessmen in Australia looking for areas to invest in, this is one country, Nigeria, that no matter what you invest in, the population is there, the market is available and you will make quantum profits,” he said.
He encouraged Hon. Dick to convey the message to the Australian business community that Nigeria is ready to welcome increased Australian investment and deepen economic cooperation between both countries.
“I want you to take the message back to the business community in Australia that Nigeria is awaiting their coming and that you have come to open the door and that it will never be closed again,” Akpabio said.
The Senate President further stressed the need for Nigeria and Australia to build a stronger parliamentary bridge between Africa and the Pacific noting that closer legislative engagement would contribute to stronger diplomatic, economic and institutional relations between the two regions.
Earlier, the visiting Speaker of the Australian House of Representatives, Hon. Milton Dick expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Parliament for receiving him and acknowledged Nigeria’s leadership role on the African continent.
Hon. Dick said he was advised to visit Nigeria as part of his campaign for the IPU Presidency because of the country’s importance and influence in Africa.
“When I decided to run for the Presidency of IPU, I was told that I have to come to Nigeria to understand Africa,” he said.
The Australian Speaker described Nigeria as the heart of Africa and commended the country’s contribution to democracy and the development of the IPU.
“I know that Nigeria is the heart of Africa and your leadership is well known throughout the continent. On behalf of the people of Australia, we thank you for what you have done for democracy and we thank you for what you have done for the IPU,” Hon. Dick said.
He expressed gratitude to the President of the Senate for granting him the opportunity to present his candidature and seek Nigeria’s support, promising to⁹ maintain the friendship between Australia and Nigeria regardless of the outcome of the IPU election.
“Mr President, thank you for honouring me by being with you today. I thank you for allowing me to earn your support and I promise you, if I’m elected or if I’m not elected, you have a brand new friend in Australia,” he said.
The Australian Speaker further emphasized Nigeria’s strategic importance to Africa, saying:
“If you think of Africa, think Nigeria; if you want to go to Africa, first go to Nigeria.”
The meeting underscored the shared commitment of Nigeria and Australia to strengthening parliamentary diplomacy, democratic institutions, international cooperation and mutually beneficial bilateral relations.
Thereafter, A dinner party was held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel to further welcome the Augustrian Speaker.
EmemMaria Ntedodom Offiong nipr.
Deputy Director (Head: Information, Press and Public Relations)
29th September, 2026.
