By Anita Okoeko
To commemorate the International Day of Parliamentarism, a thought-provoking webinar exploring the role of student parliaments in shaping future leaders was held on 30th June via Google Meet. The event was organised by the Office of the Speaker of the Nigerian Sociological and Anthropological Students Association (NSASA) Parliament (UNIBEN Chapter), led by Hon. Selimah Adisa, in collaboration with the Office of the National Vice President (South-South) of the National Association of University Students (NAUS), headed by Comrade Michael Imoloame, who also served as co-host.
Themed “Student Parliament: A Pathway to Societal Impact and Personal Growth,” the webinar aimed to spotlight the importance of student parliamentary engagement in nurturing leadership skills and inspiring societal transformation.
The programme was moderated by Anita Okoeko (popularly known as THE ANITA), who warmly welcomed participants and provided a concise overview of the agenda for the day.
The opening address was delivered on behalf of Comrade Michael Imoloame by Rt. Hon. Collins Victory Odabi, Director of Strategic Communication and Public Relations to the Office of the National Vice President (South-South), NAUS. In his speech, he acknowledged the presence of dignitaries and attendees, urging participants to fully engage with the programme as an opportunity for both leadership and personal growth. He encouraged active listening and advised attendees to ask thoughtful questions to enhance their understanding.
Following the opening remarks, the first session featured Comrade Ayere Elisha, who spoke on the topic “Student Parliament as a Leadership Lab: Sharpening Life Skills for the Real World.” He highlighted vital life skills developed through parliamentary participation, such as effective communication, active listening, decision-making, and a sense of accountability. In a brief interview, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with what he described as “young great minds,” adding, “I didn’t know students were still this interested in getting it right. I must confess.”
The second session was led by Rt. Hon. Okpako Mary Ayomide, who addressed the theme “How Parliamentary Experience Equips You to Tackle Societal Issues.” She emphasised the role of student parliamentary involvement in fostering emotional intelligence and the ability to manage interpersonal relationships with tact and maturity. She encouraged participants to carry themselves with grace and charisma, irrespective of circumstances. In a post-session interview, she shared how much she enjoyed the programme and praised the level of engagement from participants.
An interactive icebreaker segment followed, featuring a Q&A session and giveaway activities. Participants who had shown punctuality and enthusiasm in the pre-webinar engagements via the WhatsApp group were also recognised and appreciated.
The event concluded with a feedback session where attendees reflected on their experiences and shared key takeaways from the programme.
In her closing remarks, the convener, Hon. Selimah Adisa, extended heartfelt appreciation to everyone who participated and contributed to the success of the webinar. She also announced that e-certificates would be provided to those who remained until the end of the session, and that distribution would be handled through the appropriate platforms.
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