Lagos:  Senate President David Mark and Chairman of the Tanzanian Parliamentary Service Commission, Dr. Chrisant M. Mzindakaya, have advocated closer cooperation between and among African parliaments in order to fashion out a blueprint that would eradicate the problems in the continent.

Exchanging views at the National Assembly yesterday, both leaders agreed that a common approach to the multifaceted problems in the continent would be beneficial. 

Senator Mark said "African parliaments should begin to work together for the benefit of all citizens. We need to exchange ideas on how to address the problem of human rights, development, health, education and even aviation in our continent. There is no reason why we should not have direct flights connecting our countries or exchanging programmes on how to address health or education problems for the common good of our people".

Mark stated that inspite of some drawbacks, Nigeria remains a champion of democracy in Africa, "and it is our hope that a sustainable and endurable democracy in Nigeria would influence other African nations to follow suit".

He was pleased with the exchange of ideas and experience between the Nigerian Senate and Tanzanian parliamentarians, saying that a lot of cooperation is needed to sustain the tempo.

Leader of the Tanzanian parliamentary delegation, Dr. Chrisant M. Mzindakaya, urged Nigeria to use its strengths to ensure that democracy remains the option and the best form of government among African states.  "Permit me to say this without bias, that we beg the army to remain in their barracks and allow the civilians to practise democracy as the best form of government that is truly representative".

Mzindakaya emphasized the need for African governments to have a common front on issues affecting the continent.

The main objective of the visit is for members of the Parliamentary Service Commission of Tanzania to understudy the operations of the National Assembly Service Commission.