The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, on Tuesday announced that the legislature would accelerate work on key national priorities including electoral reforms, security, and socioeconomic development, as lawmakers resumed plenary after recess.
In his address to members, Speaker Abbas outlined an ambitious legislative agenda focused on improving the welfare of Nigerians through decisive action on electoral reform, poverty alleviation, education, health care, and economic stability.
“We must move swiftly to consider and pass critical bills that directly impact the stability, prosperity, and well-being of our citizens,” he said. “Chief among these is the long-awaited Electoral Reform Bill, which is crucial for enhancing the integrity of our democratic system.”
He further emphasised the need to address pressing issues such as unemployment, insecurity, fiscal reforms, and public service delivery.
As the 10th House of Representatives approaches its second anniversary, Abbas announced a series of events designed to showcase institutional progress and promote public engagement. These include a Public Policy Dialogue on May 12, a Citizens’ Engagement and Media Roundtable in June, and zonal media tours in Lagos and Kaduna. The House Open Week, set for July 1–4, will offer the public an opportunity to interact directly with lawmakers and better understand the workings of the legislature.
He also revealed plans for a live media chat during the anniversary celebrations, giving the leadership a platform to directly address the Nigerian public, discuss legislative performance, and receive feedback.
“These initiatives are not ceremonial,” he stressed. “They reflect our commitment to transparency, inclusiveness, and accountability.”
On recent legislative achievements, Abbas highlighted the passage of the Tax Reform Bills, aimed at boosting revenue, streamlining compliance, and fostering investment. He also pointed to the House’s prompt intervention during the political crisis in Rivers State, promising further engagement through a high-level reconciliation committee in collaboration with the Senate.
However, the Speaker acknowledged the grim realities the nation continues to face, citing recent killings in Borno, Benue, Plateau, and Kwara States, as well as renewed terrorist activity in the North-East.
“We condemn these heinous attacks and extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims,” Abbas stated, urging security agencies to enhance intelligence gathering, coordination, and proactive measures to prevent further violence.
He reaffirmed the House’s commitment to long-term reforms, including the ongoing constitutional amendment process being conducted by the House Committee on the Review of the Constitution.
“Our goal is clear: to deliver a comprehensive constitutional review that reflects the aspirations of Nigerians. The committee is engaging stakeholders nationwide and will deliver substantial progress in the months ahead,” he said.
Speaker Abbas concluded by urging all members to participate actively in the legislative agenda and anniversary programmes, stressing that the period ahead would be pivotal in shaping Nigeria’s democratic and developmental future.
