…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.
