Nigeria Tribune reports that Kwara State’s youngest lawmaker, Hon. Rukayat Shittu, who represents Owode Onire at the State House of Assembly, has joined global peers in France for the Organisation of Parliamentary Work programme.

The initiative, as conveyed by Abdulrazaq Hamzat, convener of the grassroots organisation Kwara Must Change, is coordinated by Campus France in collaboration with the French Senate and National Assembly. The programme offers young lawmakers and parliamentary workers a unique opportunity to participate in high-level parliamentary training and engage in knowledge exchange.

According to the statement, the programme aims to deepen participants' understanding of legislative processes, policy development, and international governance standards.

“Through this experience, Shittu, representing her constituency in Kwara State, will gain critical insights into the intricacies of parliamentary work, enriching her capacity to serve in the Nigerian legislature.

Shittu’s participation highlights her commitment to progressive governance and youth representation in Nigeria.

Hamzat, who described the lawmaker as a trailblazer for young people in politics, said that the lawmaker had continued to inspire a new generation to engage in public service and governance.

“Her visit also underscores the importance of international partnerships in nurturing young leaders who will shape the future of governance worldwide.

“The French government’s invitation reaffirms the potential of youth in global legislative affairs. Shittu’s presence in the program is not only a milestone for her personally but also a testament to Nigeria’s growing influence on the international stage”.

Hamzat said that the lawmaker’s training in France is expected to impact her contributions back home, “fostering a more informed and globally aware approach to her legislative duties”.

“As Shittu engages with counterparts from various countries, her journey exemplifies the importance of international collaboration in creating a vibrant and effective legislative environment.

“Her experience in France stands as an inspiring story of youth empowerment, signalling promising developments in Nigeria’s political landscape”.