A high-level delegation from the European Union (EU) Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, led by Mr. David McAllister, visited the Nigerian Senate on Tuesday to explore new avenues of cooperation in security, trade, and governance.

The visit formed part of the EU’s West Africa regional engagement tour, designed to reinforce partnerships and deepen diplomatic ties with key strategic allies across the region — with Nigeria standing prominently as a cornerstone of peace, economic growth, and democratic progress in Africa.

McAllister, while addressing the Senate leadership, emphasized the EU’s commitment to maintaining a strong, collaborative relationship with Nigeria, particularly in promoting stability, good governance, and sustainable development.

“We are here to reinforce our partnership with Nigeria and better understand developments in the region,” he stated.

Receiving the delegation, Senate President Godswill Akpabio reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to advancing shared values of peace, trade, and democratic governance with the European Union.

“Nigeria values its relationship with the European Union, especially in advancing peace, trade, and democratic ideals,” Akpabio said.

The EU delegation included Ambassador Greta Mylott, EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS; Zelaya Zorko, Mata Tamido, Sebastian Tankman, General Christophe Gomart, and Sebastian Buharo.

During the meeting, Senate President Akpabio highlighted the Senate’s ongoing legislative reforms aimed at increasing female political representation and removing cultural and social barriers that have historically limited women’s participation in governance.

“Women often vote for male candidates, which makes it harder for female aspirants to emerge. The Senate is considering reforms to promote gender inclusion,” Akpabio noted.

In response, Mr. McAllister reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s development priorities, particularly in the areas of counterterrorism, climate change adaptation, and economic resilience.

“A stable and democratic Nigeria is vital to regional peace and prosperity,” McAllister emphasized.

The delegation is also scheduled to participate in the International Islamic Conference on Security and Governance in West Africa and the Sahel, taking place from November 4 to 6, 2025, at the ECOWAS Commission in Abuja.

Expressing optimism about the renewed engagement, Senate President Akpabio commended the EU’s continued partnership and underscored the importance of sustained collaboration in achieving mutual goals.

“Our partnership with the EU is built on mutual respect and a shared vision for a safer, more prosperous region,” Akpabio stated.

The visit underscores a new chapter in Nigeria–EU relations, as both sides work toward a future grounded in cooperation, security, gender inclusion, and economic advancement.