Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has lauded the Republic of Niger for inaugurating its Consultative Council for Rebuilding, describing the initiative as “a beacon of hope” and a testament to the power of inclusive dialogue and participatory governance in Africa.
Delivering a keynote speech at the formal inauguration of the Council in Niamey, Speaker Bagbin praised the Nigerien authorities and people for their resilience and commitment to national cohesion, particularly in the face of adversity following the events of July 26, 2023.
“This Council stands as a true symbol of unity for the Nigerien people,” he said, echoing the sentiment in the Council’s invitation letter. “It embodies the aspiration of the people of Niger for meaningful engagement towards participatory governance.”
Speaker Bagbin was accompanied by a Ghanaian delegation, including Hon. Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Chairperson of Ghana’s Parliamentary Committee on Security and Intelligence and daughter of former President Jerry John Rawlings.
“On behalf of H.E. John Dramani Mahama, the Government, Parliament, and people of Ghana, I extend warmest congratulations to our brothers and sisters in Niger,” Bagbin stated. “This is a significant milestone in your nation’s journey to rebuild with the collective engagement of its citizens.”
The Consultative Council for Rebuilding is part of Niger’s broader efforts to establish a national dialogue-driven approach to governance and institutional reform. It is modeled after similar historic efforts in Ghana during the Rawlings era, when a broad-based Consultative Assembly led to the drafting of a transformational constitution in 1992.
“Your country is on the right path,” Bagbin remarked. “Ghana’s own experience has shown that lasting reforms emerge not from isolation, but from inclusive conversations that bring together diverse voices, perspectives, and experiences.”
He encouraged Niger’s new Council to observe Ghana’s current Constitutional Review process to foster mutual learning and collaboration. “I propose that the Consultative Council takes interest in the Constitutional Review process underway in Ghana… and share experiences and opinions.”
Addressing regional security concerns, the Speaker reiterated Ghana’s solidarity with Niger and other AES (Alliance of Sahel States) countries in combating terrorism.
“President Mahama has asked me to reiterate that Ghana stands by the Republic of Niger… Our historical and blood ties demand that we work together to defeat terrorism and enhance trade,” Bagbin emphasized, adding that Mahama’s appointment of a Special Envoy to the AES reflects this unwavering commitment.
In his closing remarks, the Speaker offered words of encouragement to members of the Council, drawing on his 33 years of parliamentary experience.
“Let your deliberations be guided by wisdom, your decisions by justice, and your actions by the common good,” he advised. “You bear the hopes, aspirations, and dreams not only of Nigeriens but of the youth across our sub-region.”
“Ghana stands ready to support Niger’s nation-rebuilding journey… You will never walk alone,” he affirmed.
Speaker Bagbin also serves as President of the Conference of Speakers and Presidents of African Legislatures, reinforcing Ghana’s growing diplomatic and governance leadership in West Africa.
The inauguration was attended by key Nigerien officials, including Prime Minister Mahama Lamine Zeini, Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Interior, and Dr. Mamoudu Harouna Djingarey, Paramount Chief of Zinder and President of the Consultative Council, as well as members of the diplomatic corps and religious leaders.
The event marks a significant step in Niger’s political and institutional reform efforts, aiming to restore trust in governance, foster unity, and chart a new course for national development.
