AFRPN Prepares for 8th Annual Conference on Democratic Governance in Africa

By Iyojo Ameh

The Association of Foreign Relations Professionals of Nigeria (AFRPN) on Friday held a high-profile press briefing in Abuja ahead of its 8th Annual Conference, set for Thursday, February 5, at the Rotunda of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tafawa Balewa House.

The briefing, held at the AFRPN Secretariat, brought together senior serving and retired diplomats, Ministry of Foreign Affairs officials, and representatives of print, broadcast, electronic, and online media.

Addressing the media, AFRPN Chairman and President Ambassador Dr. Gani Lawal highlighted the Association’s role in promoting informed debate on Nigeria’s foreign policy and Africa’s international relations.

He noted that AFRPN continues to advance policy discussions through research, mentorship, and intellectual engagement.
Ambassador Lawal announced that this year’s conference will hold under the theme: “The Challenge of Democratic Governance in Africa: Mega Trends and Leveraging Opportunities for Consolidation.”

He described the theme as timely given the recent democratic setbacks, governance challenges, and security pressures in parts of Africa, particularly the Sahel region. The event is designed to provide a forum for experts to examine these developments and chart practical pathways for consolidating democracy on the continent.

The conference will feature African Union Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, as Guest Lecturer, while Professor Ibrahim Agboola Gambari, former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Patron of AFRPN, will serve as Chairman.

High-level dignitaries are expected, including the Vice President of Nigeria as Special Guest of Honour, the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs as hosts, alongside former ministers, ambassadors, senior government officials, and AFRPN members, both serving and retired.

AFRPN reaffirmed that effective foreign policy is closely linked to strong domestic governance, economic resilience, and strategic thinking. The Association reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to democratic norms in Africa, opposition to unconstitutional changes of government, promotion of regional integration, and peaceful conflict resolution through dialogue.

Concluding the briefing, AFRPN called on the media to provide comprehensive coverage of the conference to foster informed public engagement on Africa’s democratic governance.