The Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, on Monday, 22nd September, 2025, welcomed lawmakers and delegates from across West Africa to Port Harcourt for the 2025 Second Parliament Seminar and Extraordinary Session of the ECOWAS Parliament.
The high-level parliamentary engagement, themed “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Parliamentary Efficiency, Ethical Governance, and Development in the ECOWAS Region,” brought together legislators and stakeholders to deliberate on emerging technologies and governance.
Amaewhule, accompanied by principal officers and members of the Assembly, expressed delight that Rivers State was chosen as the host for the regional gathering.
“When we received your letter that you would be having your programme here, we were very happy,” the Speaker said. “We believe that the legislature remains the foundation of our democracy. For us in this country, we cannot overemphasize its importance.”
Speaker Amaewhule assured the participants of the full support and hospitality of Rivers people, wishing them fruitful deliberations and successful engagements during their stay.
On the choice of Artificial Intelligence as the central theme, Amaewhule described it as both “timely and strategic,” stressing the need for parliaments in West Africa to embrace AI for improved efficiency, ethical governance, and sustainable development.
The extraordinary session is expected to focus on frameworks for the ethical adoption of AI, explore innovative legislative tools, and address pressing issues affecting the ECOWAS region.
