NILDS Trains Over 3,000 Lawmakers and Expands Departments to 13

The National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) has trained more than 3,000 lawmakers, parliamentary staff, and public officials in Nigeria over the past seven years. Professor Abubakar Sulaiman, the institute’s Director-General, announced this during a recent speech at the International Leadership Summit in the United Kingdom.

Sulaiman shared that NILDS has expanded its operational departments from four to 13. This change aims to strengthen the institute’s ability to conduct legislative research, provide parliamentary education, and support democratic development in Africa.

He emphasized that effective leadership is not just about holding a title but about improving institutions and the lives of people. Sulaiman noted that since he took charge in May 2019, NILDS has increased its annual training programs from about 13 to nearly 60, marking a growth of over 360 percent.

Under his leadership, NILDS has also formed more than 20 strategic partnerships with universities and organizations to enhance legislative capacity-building across Nigeria’s 36 state Houses of Assembly. Sulaiman highlighted the completion of NILDS’s new permanent complex in Abuja as a significant achievement, which provides a modern space for training and development.

Additionally, NILDS has introduced new centers for legislative research and training, including a Democracy Radio to improve public communication. Sulaiman stated that investing in personnel is vital for the institute’s success, as well-trained and motivated employees are essential for achieving goals.

He also mentioned that NILDS offers internships and training for young Nigerians, helping them gain practical experience in governance. The institute has extended its capacity-building efforts to several African countries, fostering regional collaboration.

In closing, Sulaiman urged leaders to focus on building strong institutions that can thrive beyond their tenures, emphasizing that true leadership is measured by the strength of the institutions left behind.