In a poignant address at the resumption of plenary after the Christmas and New Year holidays, the Right Honourable Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, Speaker of the House of Representatives, emphasized the need for renewed commitment to nations building and unity in the face of pressing challenges.
Abbas highlights some important issues that will be prioritize.
Celebrating 25 Years of Uninterrupted Democracy: Speaker Tajudeen highlighted the significance of 2024, marking 25 years of unbroken democratic governance since 1999. He commended the legislature’s evolution, asserting its independence and holding the Executive accountable.
Concerns Over Widespread Insecurity: Expressing deep concern over the pervasive insecurity, the Speaker addressed the challenges posed by insurgency, kidnapping, and unrest across the country. He paid tribute to victims, including Nabeeha Al-Kadriyar and Folorunsho Ariyo, and called for innovative and contemporary security strategies.
Call for National Legislative Security Summit: The Speaker proposed the convening of a National Legislative Security Summit to gather ideas from various sectors, aiming to forge enduring solutions to Nigeria’s security woes. He urged relevant security-based committees to engage with security chiefs urgently.
Economic Concerns and Budget Implementation: Tajudeen acknowledged economic challenges such as inflation, unemployment, and infrastructural deficits. He emphasized the need for effective implementation of the “Renewed Hope” 2024 budget, urging committees to oversee allocations transparently.
Performance Assessment and Anti-Corruption Measures: The Speaker commended President Bola Ahmad Tinubu’s efforts to track and review the annual performance of federal ministries. He highlighted the importance of the government-wide performance report and praised the President’s commitment to eradicating corruption in public institutions.
Legislative Priorities for 2024: The Speaker outlined legislative priorities, including security sector reforms, electoral reforms, constitutional alteration, citizens’ engagement, and collaboration with the Executive. He announced the formation of a special technical committee to review the Electoral Act 2022.
Commitment to Leadership and Unity: Speaker Tajudeen pledged to lead with wisdom, fairness, and impartiality, emphasizing the House’s role as the bedrock of democracy. He called for cooperation and partnership among colleagues, urging them to be architects of a stronger and more united Nigeria.
Legislative Open Week and Greater Collaboration:
The Speaker announced plans for a Legislative Open Week to enhance citizens’ engagement. He stressed the importance of collaboration with the Executive for effective governance and national development.
In concluding his address, Speaker Tajudeen welcomed back colleagues, expressing his wish for success in their service to the Fatherland, while invoking blessings upon the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Babs LV