By Gloria Ikibah
Members of the Economic Community of West African States Parliament, have been encouraged to take advantage of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve efficiency, strengthen accountability, and support democracy and development in the region.
The call was made during the opening of the Second Parliamentary Seminar of the ECOWAS Parliament, held alongside its 2025 Extraordinary Session in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, with the theme “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Parliamentary Efficiency, Ethical Governance and Development in the ECOWAS Region.” 
Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Rt. Hon. Meimunatu Ibrahima described AI as a “global competitive tool,” urging legislators to explore how it can help improve democracy through stronger regulatory frameworks.
Speaker Ibrahima added that AI can enhance communication between parliamentarians and citizens, driving social and economic progress.
Deputy President of the Nigerian Senate and First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Barau Jubril, advised lawmakers to examine both the opportunities and risks of AI.
“AI is reshaping governance, economies, and societies worldwide. For us legislators entrusted with the sacred duty of representation, law making, and oversight, AI presents opportunities to enhance efficiency, strengthen accountability, and promote development,” he said.
Welcoming delegates, Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, who was represented by his deputy Professor Ngozi Odu, called for legislation that ensures AI supports democracy rather than undermines it.
“Rivers as Nigeria’s energy capital and a thriving technology hub offers unique insights into this challenge. Harnessing AI for parliamentary efficiency should be domesticated to accommodate our traditional governance structures with emerging ecosystems,” he stated.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Dunoma, also noted that AI has moved from “a distant possibility to a present reality,” already influencing sectors such as education, health, security, commerce, and governance.
“For West Africa, the challenge is not whether AI will transform our societies, but how we as leaders, policymakers, and parliamentarians will guide that transformation to ensure it strengthens democratic governance, deepens integration, and improves the lives of our citizens.
“Parliament is the heartbeat of democracy. By leveraging AI, we can enhance legislative drafting, improve the quality and timeliness of oversight functions, and broaden citizen engagement in policy making.
“However, we must not only remain vigilant but also proactive in addressing the ethical, security, and socio-economic implications of these technologies, particularly in a region still grappling with issues of digital divide, unemployment, and cyber threats”, the PS said.
Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Hon. Martins Amaewhule, in his goodwill message, emphasised the importance of AI and expressed optimism that this session will provide a “pragmatic approach towards harnessing the opportunities AI provides.”
