Category: House of Representatives

By   Milcah   Tanimu

The Kaduna State House of Assembly has approved a supplementary budget of N207.2 billion for the 2024 fiscal year. This decision followed the adoption of a report by Yunusa Shehu, Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriation and Implementation.

Breakdown of the Supplementary Budget

The supplementary budget comprises N40.9 billion for recurrent expenditure and N166.3 billion for capital expenditure. Shehu noted that the third supplementary budget for 2024 is designed to support the continuation of vital projects within the state.

Key Objectives

A major focus of the supplementary budget is to facilitate the payment of the new national minimum wage to workers by the end of November, ensuring timely salary adjustments in line with national policies.

Legislative Developments

In addition to the supplementary budget, two significant bills were discussed. The first bill seeks to establish the College of Agricultural Technology in Samaru Kataf, while the second aims to enhance women’s representation in public and private offices. Both bills passed their second reading and were referred to relevant committees for further review, with a report due on November 19, 2024.

By Anne Azuka

The Delta State House of Assembly on Tuesday suspended Hon. (Engr) Oboro Kenneth Preyor, the representative for Bomadi State Constituency, for fourteen legislative days due to alleged gross misconduct.

The motion for Preyor’s suspension was introduced by the Majority Leader, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi of Aniocha North, and seconded by Hon. Mathew Omonade of Ughelli North 1 Constituency. The motion was subsequently adopted by the House.

Following its adoption, Speaker Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor instructed the Sergeant-at-Arms to escort the suspended lawmaker out of the Chamber. The Speaker also announced plans to establish an ad hoc committee to investigate the circumstances leading to Preyor’s suspension.

Meanwhile, Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori is scheduled to present the 2025 Appropriation Bill to the Assembly on Thursday.

This information was contained in a letter from the Governor, read during the plenary by Speaker Guwor. In the letter, Oborevwori expressed his intention to present the draft 2025 Appropriation Law, in line with Section 121, subsection 1, of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended.

The Governor requested the House’s audience on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at 10 a.m., to present the proposed recurrent and capital estimates for the 2025 fiscal year.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., has reaffirmed the commitment of the 10th National Assembly to advance gender-related legislation, ensuring greater participation for Nigerian women in politics.

During a meeting on Tuesday with a delegation of women in politics, Speaker Abbas emphasized that women’s representation in parliament is a fundamental right, not a privilege. The gathering, attended by Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, who also chairs the Constitution Review Committee, followed the recent International Legislative Dialogue on Women and the Constitution Amendment Process held in Abuja.

Expressing concern over the need for women to lobby for their rights, Speaker Abbas remarked, “It saddens me that we are here listening to appeals for what is inherently a right. If I had known this was the reason for our meeting, I would have assured you to rest easy—this House is committed to fulfilling its promises.”

Speaker Abbas vowed that the 10th Assembly would work towards historic legislative changes by passing all gender-related bills aimed at constitutional amendments.

“This time, history will be made. I am confident that all 360 members are united in support,” he asserted.

He further expressed hope for a future where women are fully represented across all government branches. “I look forward to seeing women not only in parliament but also holding executive roles—imagine a female president or governor with a woman deputy. This vision is achievable, and if it doesn’t happen now, it will remain a work in progress. But for the current agenda, consider it done,” he affirmed.

The leader of the delegation, Mrs. Amina Darasimi Bryhm, National Women Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), expressed gratitude for Speaker Abbas’s unwavering support. “We are delighted to be here, and pleased that you supported us at the dialogue yesterday. We appreciate having a Speaker who is a true ‘he-for-she’ in our patriarchal society.”

Mrs. Bryhm pledged that women would intensify their efforts to achieve their objectives, thanking Speaker Abbas and the National Assembly for their backing.

South African Parliament member Dudu Zuma-Sambudla, who also attended, praised Speaker Abbas for advocating for women’s rights, describing women as the peaceful backbone of any society. Civil society representatives echoed her sentiments, highlighting that women, as “beautifiers of spaces,” would bring positive transformation to politics if given more opportunities.

Former Senator and House member, Sen. Binta Masi Garba, expressed her gratitude to the Speaker’s office for amplifying women’s voices. She noted that while women constitute 49.4% of Nigeria’s population and excel in various professions, they remain underrepresented in politics. She clarified that women are not seeking equal representation with men but rather a fair share of available seats.

**Signed:**
*Musa Abdullahi Krishi*
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker, House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

By  Milcah   Tanimu

Following an incident involving Hon. Alexander Mascot Ikwechegh, a House of Representatives member, and a Bolt driver, Stephen Abuwatseya, the lawmaker issued a public apology on October 29, acknowledging his misdeeds and apologizing to the driver, the Nigerian Police, and the National Assembly for any harm to their reputations. In his statement, Ikwechegh expressed regret for his actions, calling the experience a “humbling reminder” and committing to better represent his constituents.

However, the apology has met widespread rejection online, with Nigerians doubting his sincerity. Comments on social media, including one from user Tanimola Ayodeji, criticized the apology as insincere, suggesting it was written by a personal assistant due to pressure. Another user, @thebackendslime_, expressed anger, writing, “God go punish you, I swear to God.” Many continue to demand accountability, urging the lawmaker to work on his behavior and resist the influence of power.

Sanwo-Olu, CDS, also on the list

By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna

Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State, alongside his Lagos counterpart, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, have been chosen as lead speakers for the upcoming security conference in Qatar.

The event, scheduled to take place in Doha this December, is the 18th edition of the Africa Security Watch Awards and Conference, according to reports from our correspondent.

A statement released to the press by the Senior Special Assistant on New Media highlighted that outstanding security personnel from the Nigerian military and other security agencies will be honored during the event.

At a press briefing on Monday, Patrick Agbambu, the International Coordinator and CEO of Africa Security Watch, announced that the conference’s theme is “Developing Modules for People-Centric Governance towards the Enhancement of Peace and Security.”

Governor Zulum has been selected as the keynote speaker, while General Musa will deliver a presentation on “The Nexus between Citizens’ Socio-economic Development and National Defence.”

Agbambu explained that the theme was carefully chosen to address the current security challenges in Africa and foster discussions that will lead to actionable solutions for a more peaceful and secure continent.

“The primary responsibility of any government is to ensure the safety, security, and well-being of its citizens. Through responsive and people-centered governance, societies can thrive, with policies designed to promote peace, stability, and security for all,” Agbambu stated.

He expressed concern over the fact that more than 70% of Africa continues to face varying levels of insecurity, which hampers development and leaves many citizens trapped in poverty.

“It is in this context that the Security Watch Africa Initiative (SWAI) has selected the theme for the 18th Africa Security Watch Awards & Conference: ‘Developing Modules for People-Centric Governance towards the Enhancement of Peace and Security in Africa,’” he added.

Agbambu noted that the conference will provide practical solutions to the continent’s security challenges by featuring distinguished keynote speakers, paper presenters, and panelists from across Africa and beyond.

“These experts will tackle critical issues that are key to shaping a secure future for Africa,” he concluded.

…as House Presents Parliamentary Development Programme to Partners and Donors

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., emphasized the vital role of the National Assembly in Nigeria’s democracy. He stated that a vibrant democracy relies heavily on a strong legislature. His remarks came during the presentation of the House’s Parliamentary Development Programme to the diplomatic corps, development partners, and donor agencies in Abuja on Monday.

The event was attended by Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, principal officers, and members of the House. Representatives from domestic and international donor agencies, along with members of the diplomatic corps, were also present.

The Parliamentary Development Programme aims to enhance legislative capacity and promote sustainable development across Nigeria. Speaker Abbas highlighted that the initiative began after the inauguration of the 10th House and has received significant support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which has been essential to its success.

In his address, Speaker Abbas acknowledged the importance of the legislature in advancing Nigeria’s democratic and developmental goals. He stated, “A vibrant democracy rests on the strength of its legislature. The Parliamentary Development Programme is not merely about capacity building; it is an investment in the heart of our democracy.”

He noted that a strong legislature is crucial for implementing reforms, providing oversight, and ensuring accountability. Without a capable legislative institution, the development Nigeria seeks cannot be fully realized.

Speaker Abbas pointed out that the initiative comes at a critical juncture, with the 10th House setting an ambitious Legislative Agenda aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reform-driven vision. He emphasized the commitment of both the National Assembly and the Executive to transformative reforms in sectors such as the economy, security, infrastructure, and social welfare.

He stated, “We expect the Parliamentary Development Programme to enhance the institutional capacity necessary to deliver on these reforms and support the administration’s Agenda for national development.”

Historically, the Speaker remarked, the legislature has been under-resourced compared to the executive and judiciary. Strengthening the legislature, he argued, is essential for the stability and progress of Nigeria’s democracy.

He also addressed the high turnover rate in the legislature, noting that 281 new members were elected in the 10th Assembly out of 360. This turnover disrupts continuity and erodes institutional memory, both crucial for effective governance.

“Continuous capacity building is essential to ensure new legislators are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge from day one,” he added.

He concluded, “Investing in the institutional strengthening of the National Assembly lays the foundation for a resilient legislature that can effectively contribute to good governance. A capable legislature is central to driving the reforms needed for Nigeria’s development.”

Earlier, UNDP Resident Representative in Nigeria, Ms. Elsie Attafuah, called the programme a milestone in efforts to strengthen governance and promote democratic processes. She commended the Speaker for his vision of a 10th House that prioritizes transparency, accountability, and responsiveness to the Nigerian people.

Ms. Attafuah stated, “Your commitment to modernizing the legislative process to align with international best practices is exemplary. It is crucial for restoring faith in democracy and addressing the diverse voices and aspirations of the Nigerian people.”

She also recognized Speaker Abbas’s leadership, particularly in advancing measures to increase women’s participation in elected and appointed offices in Nigeria.

By Jabiru Hassan, Kano

The immediate past Executive Chairman of Bichi Local Government Council, Dr. Yusuf Mohammed Sabo, has commended Honorable Engineer Abubakar Kabir Abubakar Bichi (Abban Alkhairi) for his dedication to uplifting educational standards and development in the Bichi Local Government Area of Kano State.

In a statement issued on Monday, Dr. Sabo praised the plans by the Honorable Member representing Bichi Federal Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations to fund and sponsor the first batch of 21 students— all indigenes of Bichi Local Government—under his Foreign Scholarship Scheme. These students will pursue master’s degree programs in Engineering, Computing, Science, and Technology at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. Dr. Sabo described this initiative as an “excellent and commendable educational development.”

He extended his heartfelt congratulations to all 21 beneficiaries, selected based on merit from across the 11 wards of Bichi Local Government, and emphasized that the area is fortunate to have Honorable Abubakar Kabir Abubakar Bichi representing its Federal Constituency in the National Assembly.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., has pledged the Green Chamber’s support to enhance the operations of the National Senior Citizens Centre (NSCC). He emphasized the need to increase the agency’s annual budget, currently standing at N250 million, to better enable it to fulfill its national mandate.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by the NSCC leadership to his office at the National Assembly on Tuesday, Speaker Abbas expressed concern over the agency’s limited budget. “I am deeply depressed that such an important agency has been operating with just N250 million to cover a national mandate,” he said.

The Speaker also revealed plans to collaborate with the House Committee on Disability Matters, chaired by Hon. Bashiru Dawodu, to ensure that the NSCC establishes at least one operational office in each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. He further tasked the committee to work with the agency on drafting a bill that would provide special concessions to senior citizens, particularly in areas such as healthcare and transportation.

“We are ready to partner with you,” Speaker Abbas assured the NSCC. “We will sit with the chairman and the Appropriations Committee to see what can be done to improve your budget in 2025.” Despite the federal government’s budgetary constraints, he emphasized that the NSCC deserves special attention and additional funding.

Speaker Abbas also expressed concern over the state of Nigeria’s pension system, stating, “I can’t imagine a civil servant working for 35 years, only to come back and receive a meager monthly pension. It is depressing, and the pension system is not adequately supporting retirees.” He committed to collaborating with the NSCC to improve the pension scheme, as part of efforts to enhance the well-being of Nigeria’s senior citizens.

On healthcare, Speaker Abbas urged the NSCC leadership to draft a bill that would offer senior citizens special concessions in health, transportation, and other essential services. He also highlighted the need for regional offices to improve the agency’s reach and operations, asking the NSCC to prepare a budget submission for the establishment of offices in each geopolitical zone.

Earlier, Dr. Emem Omokaro, Director-General of the NSCC, briefed the Speaker on the centre’s challenges, including the insufficient annual budget and the lack of regional offices. She sought the Speaker’s support in addressing these issues to enable the NSCC to better serve Nigeria’s growing senior citizen population.

The meeting concluded with Speaker Abbas reiterating his commitment to improving the operations of the NSCC and ensuring better welfare for the country’s elderly population.

Signed:
Musa Abdullahi Krishi
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker, House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., GCON, has urged for stronger ties and enhanced cooperation between Nigeria and the United States. He expressed this during a meeting with the new American Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills.

Speaker Abbas reassured the Ambassador of support from the 10th House of Representatives, extending this commitment to the National Assembly as a whole. Ambassador Mills, accompanied by US Embassy officials Cassandra Carraway and Melissa Jones, made a courtesy visit to the Speaker.

During the meeting, Speaker Abbas welcomed Ambassador Mills, saying, “It is a pleasure to host the newest Ambassador of the United States of America.” He appreciated the US delegation’s visit to discuss shared interests between the two nations.

Highlighting the importance of the bilateral relationship, Speaker Abbas called for “stronger ties, deeper cooperation, and more mutually beneficial engagements.” He expressed confidence in Ambassador Mills’ ability to strengthen relations, stating, “You can count on us for every support needed to succeed.”

Ambassador Mills, in his remarks, emphasized the importance of Nigeria, describing it as Africa’s largest democracy, which holds significant interest for the United States.

Signed:

Musa Abdullahi Krishi
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker
House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., has reaffirmed the federal parliament’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s pressing security and socio-economic challenges. As the National Assembly resumed from its annual recess, Speaker Abbas detailed the significant tasks ahead for the 10th House of Representatives.

Legislative Achievements and Future Priorities

In his address, Speaker Abbas highlighted the House’s accomplishments before the recess, with 1,351 bills introduced and 89 passed, focusing on sectors such as electricity, healthcare, and financial accountability. However, he stressed the importance of maintaining momentum in the coming months, with particular emphasis on economic reforms, youth empowerment, healthcare, infrastructure, and education.

“We must prioritize these areas to address the ongoing challenges facing Nigerians and ensure national progress,” he said.

Security and Economic Concerns

Speaker Abbas acknowledged the recent security incidents across various communities, offering condolences to the families of the victims. He emphasized the importance of preventing future tragedies and addressing the underlying security concerns, particularly in the North, where military operations have made progress in combating insurgency.

On the economic front, he pointed to Nigeria’s 3.19% GDP growth in Q2 2024 as a positive sign, despite inflationary pressures and a high cost of living. He also noted that international organizations, including the IMF, have recognized Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its economy and improve fiscal stability.

Legislative-Executive Collaboration

Speaker Abbas underscored the importance of collaboration between the legislature and the executive branch, while maintaining the House’s independence. He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Executive Council for approving the Economic Stabilisation Bills, which aim to provide tax relief for businesses, personal income relief for workers, and suspend taxes on small businesses and vulnerable groups.

“The House is fully prepared to expedite the passage of these bills to ensure their timely implementation and contribute to economic stability,” Abbas stated.

Security Reforms and Upcoming Legislative Security Summit

Security remains a top priority for the House of Representatives. Speaker Abbas announced plans for a high-level Legislative Security Summit in the final quarter of the year, aimed at addressing Nigeria’s urgent security challenges. The summit will bring together stakeholders, including the Executive, security agencies, policy experts, and civil society organizations.

The focus will be on legislative reforms to strengthen security institutions, improve inter-agency collaboration, and integrate advanced technology into national defense. The summit will also explore community policing and border security strategies.

Conclusion

Speaker Abbas called on his colleagues to approach their duties with renewed vigor, emphasizing their responsibility to reflect the will of the people in every bill and debate. He reaffirmed the House’s dedication to promoting national development, economic stability, and security, and urged continued collaboration with the Executive to achieve these goals.

Signed:
Musa Abdullahi Krishi
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker, House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria