NILDS, Benin Republic Partner to Strengthen Legislative Capacity, Governance

By Oluwakemi Kindness

The Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Professor Abubakar Sulaiman, has emphasised that the quality of governance in any nation depends on the strength of its policy-making and legislative institutions.

He made the remark while declaring open a five-day legislative workshop organised by NILDS in collaboration with the Parliamentary Institute of the Republic of Benin (IPAP) in Abuja.

Professor Sulaiman stated that the outcomes of governance are a direct reflection of the competence of policymakers and the systems guiding them, stressing that good governance cannot thrive without strong legislative frameworks, sound policy formulation, and effective administrative structures.

The workshop, themed “Legislative Process and Procedure, Policy Analysis, Innovative Management Skills, and Strategic Administrative Techniques for Sustainable Development,” is the first joint programme under the Memorandum of Understanding signed between Nigeria and Benin Republic.

According to the DG, the training aims to deepen participants’ understanding of legislative procedures, enhance policy analysis, and strengthen leadership and management capacity.

He noted that the sessions would go beyond theory to include practical applications such as leadership dynamics, oversight mechanisms, innovative management tools, and the use of artificial intelligence in parliamentary processes.

“The essence of sustainable development lies not only in visionary policies but in capable institutions and committed individuals who can translate intentions into tangible results for citizens,” he said, urging participants to actively engage and exchange ideas that will improve governance across both nations.

The DG commended the Parliament of Benin for its partnership, adding that the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to building vibrant, accountable, and people-centered legislatures that can respond to 21st-century policy challenges.

In his remarks, Dr. Fatahau Djima, Director of the Parliamentary Institute of Benin Republic, expressed appreciation for the partnership with Nigeria’s National Assembly and NILDS.

Speaking through an interpreter, he said the collaboration enhances parliamentary governance, innovation, and legislative development across Africa.

“This exchange of ideas and capacity building will strengthen both our institutions and inspire broader cooperation among African parliaments,” Dr. Djima said, pledging full commitment to achieving fruitful outcomes from the joint initiative.

The workshop underscores Nigeria and Benin’s shared vision of using legislative collaboration to drive effective governance, policy innovation, and sustainable development in the West African sub-region.