The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has urged the European Union (EU) to expand its engagement with African countries beyond election observation and security support, by investing more in infrastructure, technology, and development initiatives.
Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday during a courtesy visit by the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ambassador Gautier Mignot, Speaker Abbas said Africa needs more robust partnerships that can match the increasing presence of Asian countries on the continent.
“With the United States reducing aid under former President Donald Trump’s administration, there is a gap to be filled. The EU should seize this opportunity to become a stronger partner to Africa,” Speaker Abbas stated.
He noted that while the EU has made significant contributions in capacity-building, especially in electoral processes, its economic footprint in Africa is lagging behind that of countries like China and India.
“Asia is fast approaching Africa with heavy investments. The EU should be more visible and proactive in investing in key sectors across the continent,” he said.
Speaker Abbas also emphasized the House’s willingness to collaborate with the EU on critical legislative and development issues, saying the National Assembly remains a friend of the European Union.
He was joined at the meeting by the House Majority Leader, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere; Minority Whip, Hon. Ali Isah; Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, Hon. Wole Oke; and Chairman of the Nigeria-EU Parliamentary Friendship Group, Hon. Abdulmaleek Danga.
In his response, Ambassador Mignot reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to building strong partnerships with African countries, particularly Nigeria, which he described as a key trade and investment partner.
The envoy outlined areas of future cooperation including science and technology, humanitarian assistance, and governance reforms. He also called on the National Assembly to strengthen the Electoral Act and promote gender inclusion in public affairs.
Ambassador Mignot emphasized the need for deeper cooperation between the European Parliament and Nigeria’s National Assembly to promote democratic values and sustainable development.
