By Abba Anwar

Beyond the shores of Nigeria, comes another testimony for the transparent posture in the genuine commitment of the Deputy Senate President, Barau I Jibrin, in sub-regional cooperation and Africa’s development.

Also as the first Deputy Speaker, ECOWAS Parliament, the group engaged other foreign bodies to arrive at their conclusion. The group selects DSP for Africa’s Award of Legislative Excellence.

In a letter, transmitted to the DSP personally, from a group called Réseau des Jeunes du Sahel pour le Progrès, le Développement et la Démocratie (RJSPDD), signed by Mr Fassoko Doumbia, reminded that, he was elected as the 1st Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament on April 4 or 5, 2024, during the inauguration of the 6th Legislature of the regional bloc in Abuja, Nigeria.

Since then, according to the group, he proved to be Pan Africanist of the highest order, observing his role in all deliberations of the regional body, ECOWAS. Adding that, DSP’s immeasurable contributions at regional body speaks volume about his enthusiastic patriotism and Pan Africanism.

According to the group, the celebration for the Award would come up in one of the ECOWAS cities. Which would be disclosed later after all necessary arrangements are made.

Being the Deputy Senate President in Nigeria, according to the letter, that places him, expectedly, among the finest legislators from ECOWAS member states. They said they believe in his political maturity, faith in democracy and unwavering support for greater Africa.

Acknowledging Barau’s feats in his capacity as the First ECOWAS Deputy Speaker, it “… automatically proves to all that, Distinguished Senator Barau is an asset in Nigeria’s foreign policy. The role he plays at ECOWAS level means a lot in showing to the world that, legislators under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration are of global standard,” says the letter.

While it is believed that, as the group highlights, “The ECOWAS Parliament has made significant strides in promoting regional integration, stability, and development. We are privy to some specific roles Senator Barau played in these respects.”

Some key achievements DSP Jibrin displayed through unwavering commitment towards Africa’s integration and development as noted by the letter, include, ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card (ENBIC), that was established to enhance freedom of movement and identity verification within the region. This will also go a long way in strengthening our security architecture.

For easy movement among the sub-regional citizens, the First Deputy Speaker ECOWAS Parliament, Senator Jibrin played an important role in advancing ECOVISA initiative. That is the introduction of a single visa system, similar to the Schengen visa, to facilitate travel and trade among member states. This will boost economic independence.

While clearly understanding the demand for effective and efficient legislation across member states, he performed wonderfully well during discussions on how the ECOWAS Parliament can address regional issues through strengthened institutions and improved infrastructural development.

In an effort to address various regional issues of institutional capacities and promotion of regional trade to ensure sustainable development and integration within the ECOWAS region, he makes sure that there is synergy among parliamentarians and supporting staff, as appreciated by the group.

According to the letter transmitted to Deputy Senate President, it says, “Senator Barau’s insightful contribution to budgetary allocation formula of 2024 budget paved way for significant funds to support development initiatives, including hosting a Second Global Summit for Women and Youths in the region.

We are aware of your effort in intensifying ECOWAS oversight functions. As the parliament also pledges to ensure transparent use of resources through meaningful engagements with key stakeholders, particularly the ECOWAS Commission.”