Tag: Abbas

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has praised Speaker Tajudeen Abbas as a nation builder and leader par excellence in a heartfelt message marking his 60th birthday.

Kalu described Abbas as a true democrat with a record of selfless service, whose pragmatic leadership has driven remarkable accomplishments while promoting empathy, humanitarian causes, and good governance.

He extended warm wishes for the Speaker’s continued health and fruitful years, dedicating the message on behalf of his family and constituents in Bende Federal Constituency, Abia State.

“I wish to commend your exemplary, selfless, and all-inclusive leadership and commitment towards uniting the nation. Since the inauguration of the 10th National Assembly in June 2023, you’ve shown commitment to developing, sustaining Nigeria’s democracy and promoting good governance through effective representation.

“The House, under your able leadership, has witnessed a peaceful atmosphere and tremendous progress. I am grateful for the confidence you reposed in me to serve and the overwhelming support we enjoy from our colleagues. I wish you many happy returns and more prosperous years ahead. Congratulations, Sir.”

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, said on Monday that Nigeria as a nation cannot prosper by leaving half of its talent and energy on the sidelines, saying reforms delayed are reform denied, and that Nigerians deserve clarity and closure.

The Speaker who spoke at the National Public hearing on the review of the 1999 Constitution said the ongoing review will pay attention to the representation of underrepresented groups like women, youth, and persons with disabilities in governance.

Abbas said, “Today, women hold less than five percent of seats in the National Assembly. That statistic is unacceptable for a country of our size and ambition.”

The Speaker said the public hearing marks a significant moment in the nation’s democratic journey and legislative process as it crowns months of deliberate, nationwide engagement designed to ensure that Nigerians themselves shape the evolution of the supreme law.

He disclosed that the Constitution Review Committee travelled across the six geopolitical zones, convening zonal and regional hearings that gathered the hopes, concerns, and insights of the nation’s diverse population.

He said, “In those engagements, Nigerians from every background spoke with clarity and passion about the future they seek.

“Today’s forum unites those regional voices in a single, national conversation. It reflects the House of Representatives’ steadfast commitment to participatory governance and inclusive nation-building, affirming that every Nigerian has a meaningful voice in shaping the document that defines our republic.

Speaker Abbas said, “From the outset of this review, the House of Representatives has pledged that we will conclude the process in a timely manner. Nigerians are wary of constitutional reforms that drag on for years, losing momentum and eroding public trust.

“We recognise that, after the National Assembly votes on these bills, the State Houses of Assembly must also consider and approve them under Section 9 of the Constitution.

“To honour this requirement, we have set clear timelines. We intend to vote on the proposals expeditiously and to transmit them promptly to the State Houses of Assembly so that concurrence can be secured within the current legislative session. Reform delayed is reform denied, and Nigerians deserve clarity and closure.

“By acting decisively, we give the states enough time to debate, deliberate, and endorse the people’s will without the pressure of electoral calendars or political distractions.

“The proposals before us cover a broad range of themes, reflecting the diversity and complexity of our federation. A few amendments in this review are as transformative as those under inclusive governance.

“Nigeria cannot prosper by leaving half of its talent and energy on the sidelines. Today, women hold less than five percent of seats in the National Assembly. That statistic is unacceptable for a country of our size and ambition.

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“The reserved seats for women proposal will create additional seats in the National Assembly and State Assemblies to ensure that every state and senatorial district has women’s voices in law-making. This is not tokenism but a constitutional mechanism to accelerate gender inclusion until structural barriers are dismantled.

“Similar provisions ensure representation for persons with disabilities at the federal, state, and local levels, recognising their right to fully participate in shaping the laws that affect their lives.

“Another amendment requires a minimum threshold of women in ministerial appointments to ensure gender balance. These measures will make our democracy more representative, our policies more responsive, and our country more just.

Recognising traditional institutions is another important proposal.

“Our traditional rulers are stabilisers in their communities, mediators in conflict, and custodians of culture. By assigning them a defined advisory and functional role, particularly in local peace-building and community security collaboration, we integrate their strengths into our democratic framework without undermining republican principles.

“This approach acknowledges Nigeria’s cultural realities and leverages them to foster national unity and stability.

“As is apparent by now, many of the proposals before the National Assembly perfectly correspond with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, which prioritises security, economic revitalisation, inclusivity, and transparent governance. Our constitutional reform, therefore, will provide the legal chassis on which that agenda can be driven forward.

Constitutional reform is a process that relies on your vigilance and participation. The work before us is weighty but inspiring. Constitutions are not perfect documents, but they are powerful compacts.

“By improving ours, we write a new chapter in our national story. Decades from now, when future generations look back at the amendments of 2025, let them say that this generation rose above division and complacency, and dared to renew Nigeria’s promise.

“Let it be remembered that we chose courage over caution, unity over discord, and posterity over short-term politics. Let it be said that we acted not only as legislators or advocates, but as custodians of Nigeria’s destiny”.

The Speaker said, “The National Assembly will take all contributions seriously and consider the bills with diligence, fairness, and urgency. We will engage the State Assemblies respectfully and transparently to secure their concurrence. We will continue to work with the Executive and with you, the people, to ensure that the amendment process proceeds smoothly.”

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, and his Deputy, Benjamin Kalu, have called on Muslims across Nigeria to emulate the exemplary life and virtues of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) as they celebrate Eid-ul-Mawlud.

In separate goodwill messages to the Muslim community, the leaders urged Nigerians to embrace the Prophet’s teachings of peace, humility, discipline, and service to humanity.

Speaker Abbas noted that despite Nigeria’s socioeconomic challenges, the nation has the potential to prosper if both leaders and citizens abide by the principles of justice, love, and charity espoused by the Prophet. He also called on Muslims to continue praying for the country and to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, as well as other leaders at different levels.

Read Also: Agbese hails Abbas, Kalu for resolving FG–contractors standoff

Deputy Speaker Kalu, in his message, encouraged Muslims to practice humility, justice, fairness, and compassion, stressing that the best way to honour Prophet Muhammad is to live by his shining examples.

Both presiding officers of the Green Chamber wished Muslims a blessed and peaceful Eid-el-Mawlud celebration.

He said, “I encourage Nigerians of all faiths to use the celebration to pray for peace, security, and stability in the country, while supporting the government’s efforts to strengthen national unity and foster development. The best way to celebrate Prophet Muhammad is to follow his good examples.

“I call on all Nigerians to join the government in ongoing efforts to eradicate insecurity and corruption and to show love and understanding for one another.”

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, said on Monday that the time has come for the National Assembly to take over the Management of the National Assembly complex from the Federal Capital Development Authority in the interest of democratic practice and the concept of separation of powers.

The Speaker, who spoke at a public hearing on a bill to establish the National Assembly Infrastructure and Property Agency, said the legislation is both timely and necessary as it addresses the urgent need to protect and sustain the physical integrity of the National Assembly Complex and its associated properties across the country.

Represented by the Minority Whip, Ali Isa JC, the Speaker said, “This Bill does not seek to replace the existing Directorate of Estates and Works. Rather, it rightly transfers the responsibilities currently performed by the Federal Capital Development Authority to the National Assembly itself.

“This means we are placing control over our premises where it belongs, within the institution that uses and maintains them. The aim is to ensure that maintenance, development and preservation are handled with the priority and professionalism they deserve.

“Over the years, we have seen the consequences of disjointed management, including delayed repairs, safety concerns and operational inefficiencies. With a dedicated Agency, these challenges will be addressed through long-term planning, preventive maintenance schedules and transparent procurement. The result will be cost savings, better working conditions and an environment that reflects the dignity of our legislative work.

“The Agency will manage every aspect of our buildings and precincts. This includes structural maintenance, mechanical services, liaison offices and the preservation of our architectural heritage. The scope extends to all agencies under the National Assembly, such as the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies, the National Assembly Service Commission and the Library Trust Fund.

“This is not an isolated idea. In the United States, the Architect of the Capitol has managed and preserved the Capitol Complex since the eighteenth century. The United Kingdom Parliament has the Parliamentary Estates Agency, which performs a similar function. These examples remind us that a legislature that manages its own facilities stands stronger and more independent.

“The new Agency will have a clear governance structure. Its Board will include the presiding officers, committee chairmen, the Clerk to the National Assembly and professionals with relevant expertise. It will submit regular reports to the Senate and House Committees on Services, ensuring transparency and alignment with our strategic objectives. This framework guarantees that public funds are spent wisely and that there is no room for mismanagement.

Read Also: Speaker Abbas pledges N100 million starter park for vocational trainees

“More than buildings and infrastructure, this Bill demonstrates our commitment to efficiency, accountability and excellence. It shows Nigerians that we are serious about leading by example and maintaining the highest standards in the running of our own institution. A National Assembly that maintains its house well will be better positioned to serve the people”.

While supporting the passage of the bill, Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, informed the gathering of the fact that by law, the FCDA is saddled with the responsibility of constructing public infrastructures within the Federal Capital Territory.

He said the National Assembly complex and the Supreme Court are all under the management of the FCDA, adding that this was not good for the parliament and democratic practice.

He also disclosed that the agency is necessary to allow the National Assembly to take charge of its facilities, saying that while the National Assembly complex in Abuja is under the control of the Minister of the FCT, the complex in Lagos is under the control of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

He, however, expressed concern over the expected increase in the cost of governance with the establishment of the agency, while recommending that the function of the body should be domiciled in the Estate and Works directorate of the National Assembly.

Chairman of the Committee, Amos Daniel said the gathering marks a significant milestone in our pursuit of legislative autonomy and independence for the legislature, adding that the proposed bill seeks to address a critical anomaly in the nation’s democratic setup, where the Federal Capital Development Authority is responsible for the construction, development and maintenance of the National Assembly infrastructure, which contradicts the doctrine of separation of powers.

He said over the years, the FCDA has been in charge of the construction and maintenance of the National Assembly complex, while providing the needed infrastructure needed by the Assembly, adding that the time has come for certain developments to be reviewed so that the Assembly will take charge of its own affairs.

He said the establishment of the National Assembly Infrastructure and Property Agency will not only strengthen the independence of the legislature, but also enhance its operational autonomy saying it was crucial for ensuring the effective functioning of the National Assembly and upholding the principles of democracy.

He said the new agency, when established will be better positioned to serve the people better and align with the practices in other democratic climes.

One of the sponsors of the bill, Daniel Asama Ago said the bill seeks to establish the National Assembly Infrastructure and Property Agency, charged with the operation, management, development, maintenance, and preservation of the National Assembly Complex and all properties of the National Assembly and all agencies of the National Assembly across Nigeria.

According to him, the agency will play a crucial role in ensuring the effective management and upkeep of the National Assembly’s properties, thereby enhancing the legislative body’s overall efficiency and productivity.

He said the present practice, where the properties of the National Assembly and its Agencies are being constructed and maintained by the Federal Capital Development Authority, is a clear contravention of the doctrine of separation of powers and undermines the independence and autonomy of the legislative arm of government.

He said the Agency will oversee the maintenance, repair, construction, and reconstruction of the National Assembly and all Agencies of the National Assembly which shall include the health and fitness facilities, garages, Chambers, and office buildings; ensuring they are properly maintained, utilized and contribute to a more efficient and productive legislative process.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen said on Friday that the unity of the nation and participation of the citizens in governance remain a top priority of the 10th National Assembly.

The Speaker who spoke at the regional roundtable with the leadership of the House in Zaria said that without unity not the country it will be difficult to achieve any meaningful development across the country.

Represented by the former leader of the House and Leader of the Northern caucus in the House, Alhassan Ado Doguwa, the Speaker said legitimacy and effectiveness of the legislature are fundamentally interwoven with the trust and confidence bestowed upon it by the citizenry.

According to him, the ‘Citizens’ Roundtable’ with the leadership of the 10th ‘House’ is a continuation of its deliberate agenda to involve citizens in the activities of the House and engage with the people “we are privileged to serve and account for our stewardship”.

He said the interactive meeting aligns with the mid-term report of the 10th House of Representatives, through which it reflects on the progress made so far and reaffirm its dedication to the priorities of the people and nation over the past two years.

He said that at the inauguration of the 10th House on June 13, 2023, “we immediately acknowledged the fact that our legitimacy and effectiveness are fundamentally interwoven with the trust and confidence bestowed upon us by the citizenry.

“This chamber is indisputably theirs, and we are stewards of their collective will, entrusted with the solemn task of advancing their interests.

“Fully aware of this critical duty, we prioritised creating pathways for transparent dialogue, embracing constructive critique, and fostering collaborative approaches to addressing national challenges.

“Since that landmark day, citizen engagement has been meticulously integrated as one of the mainstreams of our 8-point Legislative Agenda. Through a series of substantive consultations, we have sought public perspectives on key legislative priorities and pressing national issues.

Read Also: Abbas, Kalu eulogise Gbajabiamila at 63, Sanwo-Olu at 60

“From focused discussions on appropriation and state policing to deliberations on national security, economic resilience, political inclusion, and equitable gender representation, we have remained unwavering in our commitment to aligning our legislative efforts with the dynamic aspirations of the people we serve.

“We acknowledge that the voices of the citizenry are of paramount significance, serving as the solemn foundation upon which impactful legislations, transformative policies, and consequential decisions are made and enacted. 

“Our steadfast commitment to a flourishing democracy is deeply entrenched in the principle of active and meaningful civic engagement because we are convinced that a forum such as this, characterized by unfettered dialogue, the intellectual exchange of ideas, and incisive constructive critique, is vital in equipping the leadership of our nation to adeptly handle the complexities of governance, steering the state towards sustained progress and collective prosperity.

“This Roundtable, therefore, embodies our resolute dedication to cultivating a robust and symbiotic relationship between the House and the citizenry. It is proof that our determination to ensure that governance remains inclusive, reflective, and attuned to the aspirations of those whose mandate we are privileged to uphold.

“This Roundtable is evidence that our dedication to fostering a dynamic and symbiotic relationship between the 10th House and the people is yielding results. This gathering, therefore, validates our pledge to nurture collaboration, inviting participants to share incisive perspectives, propose viable solutions, and enrich our legislative agenda with their invaluable contributions. 

The Minister of State for Education, Sawaiba Ahmed who was represented at the event by Prof. Ali Idris expressed concern about the increasing level of out of school children in the country, majority of which he said comes from the North.

The Minister also expressed concern about the high level of what she called out-of-school illiteracy, adding that many graduates in the country today cannot construct a complete sentence.