Speaking at the occasion, the Speaker of the National Assembly, Honourable Madam Fatoumata Garba Jahumpa, said that there are 53 members in parliament out of which five are nominated members of which three are women. She asserted that there are six opposition members in parliament and also spoke about the parliamentary associations. She said the first opening of parliament was witnessed by the speaker of Nigerian Parliament.

Madam Speaker pointed out that the second opening of parliament was attended by the majority and minority leaders of the Nigerian Parliament. She said, “we are working closely with other parliamentarians in the region with a view to prevent conflict and promote peace in Africa.”

Madam speaker assured the Nigerian High Commissioner of Gambian parliamentarians’ readiness to collaborate with their counterparts to work towards the common good\goals.

For her part, the new Nigerian High Commissioner to The Gambia H.E. Mrs Esther John Audu commended the Gambian parliamentarians for their united stance and called them true representatives in their work. She said they should frequently visit their constituencies.

The High Commissioner promised to work with the parliament for the common goal. She pointed out the pivotal role parliament can play in national development.

The occasion was graced by minority leader Honourable Modou Sanneh, Honourable Babanding K. K. Daffeh NAM for Kiang Central, Honourable Sainey Jaiteh Serekunda Central all of whom expressed similar sentiments.