Tag: Abbas

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has emphasised that effective communication by spokespersons is crucial in reshaping public perception of the government and its institutions.

He explained that this is why the 10th House, under his leadership, has made legislative activities more accessible to the public through citizens’ engagements.

Speaker Abbas made the remarks during the opening ceremony of the 2nd Nigeria Spokespersons Summit and the conferment of honorary fellowship by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) in Abuja on Tuesday. 

At the event, he was honored with an Honorary Fellowship of the institute.

He said: “Effective leadership communication is key to improving public perception of government institutions. In the House, we have taken concrete steps to make our legislative processes more accessible. We now live-stream plenary sessions, publish committee reports in real-time, and provide sign language interpretation during debates.

“For the first time in the history of the National Assembly, the 10th House is conducting annual self-assessments and presenting its scorecard to the Nigerian public. All these demonstrate that our legislature is a vibrant, accessible institution committed to restoring public trust.”

The Speaker appreciated the NIPR leadership and the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation for hosting the summit and recognising the efforts in strengthening public communication.

He also noted that the theme of the summit, ‘Integrity and the Evolving Roles of Spokespersons in Leadership Communication’, is both timely and enduring.

Speaker Abbas said: “Today, I wish to address the challenges and opportunities of communicating leadership ideals in our democracy, our shared duty to uphold truth and trust, and the steps we can take together to reinforce good governance.

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“After 25 years of uninterrupted democracy, Nigeria has reached a stage where the way we communicate leadership and policy must reflect the maturity of our democratic process. At its core, democracy is not merely the government of the people, by the people, or for the people; democracy, for me, is about government with the people.

“This redefinition highlights the need for an active and ongoing partnership between those who govern and those who are governed. This relationship should be built on truth, inclusion, and mutual respect.

“In an era when misinformation can spread faster than facts and erode public trust, the necessity for honest, clear, and inclusive communication cannot be overstated. Too often, ‘Public Relations’ has been misunderstood as mere spin or propaganda, yet integrity in communication is the cornerstone of a thriving democracy.

“When practitioners and spokespersons adhere to ethical standards, they empower citizens to make informed decisions and hold leaders accountable. Conversely, practices rooted in deception weaken our social contract and foster cynicism.”

The Speaker noted that the House has embraced a commitment to active citizen engagement by bringing parliament closer to the people. 

He said the 10th House introduced innovative initiatives to demystify the legislative process, saying “Our ‘State of the House’ engagement forum, first launched in 2024, was the first of its kind by the leadership of the National Assembly. It allowed citizens nationwide to directly interact with House leadership in a live forum, marking a departure from the old approach of speaking to the people from a distance,” he said.

Speaker Abbas also mentioned the youth town halls, to hold twice a year to give young Nigerians — who make up over 60 per cent of the population — a platform to discuss governance and policy. 

“These engagements have led to concrete outcomes, he said while also noting an annual ‘Legislative Open Week’ to civil society organisations, students, traditional leaders, market women, and others, thereby fostering greater transparency and accountability.”

The Speaker recalled a particularly memorable moment when he invited a 16-year-old Isabel Anini to preside over a plenary session, “symbolising my commitment to inclusivity and our confidence in the potential of the next generation.”

Speaker Abbas proposed a stronger partnership between the NIPR and the National Assembly, working together to launch public orientation campaigns that explain how policies are created and showcase the important role of parliament, adding that this initiative could significantly enhance public understanding and reduce negative perceptions. By combining our efforts, we can ensure clear, effective, and inclusive communication. 

The Speaker said targeted training programmes for press officers and parliamentary committees — guided by global best practices — would help translate complex legislative matters into narratives that resonate with all Nigerians.

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) conferred honorary doctorate degrees on two distinguished individuals, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, and Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group, during its 14th convocation ceremony on Saturday.

Abbas Tajudeen was awarded the Honorary Doctorate Degree of Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.) (Honoris Causa), while Akinwumi Adesina received the Honorary Doctorate Degree of Doctor of Humane Letters (L.H.D.) (Honoris Causa). The selection was made by the University Joint Council/Senate Honor.

The vice chancellor said: “I want to report that this is another opportunity for us to celebrate the academic achievements of our students. A total of 17,420 will be graduating this year, comprising 10,967 undergraduates and 6,413 postgraduates. And then we have 40 students graduating at the PhD level.

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“This is a remarkable growth from where we started about four years ago. Of this number, we have 2,103 postgraduate diploma students and 4,310 with a master’s degree.

“Of the undergraduates, we have 16 first-class students, which is fantastic. We have 1,417 second-class upper students, 5,518 second-class lower students, and 2,761 third-class students.

“The total number of graduands from correctional centres this year is 51. This is extremely high-41 undergraduates and 10 postgraduates from correctional centres.”

The vice chancellor also stated that the institution is deploying technology to a great extent in the way it teaches its students.

He highlighted key reforms, including improvements in the university’s infrastructure, research funding, and delivery systems. 

The VC further mentioned the institution’s accomplishments, including the hosting of prominent figures and the upcoming honorary degree awards.

He reflected on his five-year tenure, expressing satisfaction with the impact and the changes made, particularly in education and research.

Speaker Abbas Tajudeen has asked Muslims to pray for the country and its leaders as the Islamic faithful begin the Ramadan fasting. 

The Speaker said Nigeria need divine intervention, adding the political, religious, and traditional leaders also need divine guidance to lead the people aright.

He specifically called for prayers and support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging Nigerians to continue to believe in the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ of the administration.

The Speaker also urged Nigerians to pray for the 10th National Assembly, especially the leadership, saying the federal parliament has many dividends of democracy to offer the people, while also praying for a successful completion of Ramadan and acceptance of the prayers and supplications during the Holy Month.

Read Also: Ramadan fast: Bauchi orders five-week shutdown of all schools

“I wish our brothers and sisters in Islam a successful Ramadan. I urge Muslims and non-Muslims alike to pray for our country, Nigeria, the leaders at the federal, state, and local government levels, as well as our religious and traditional leaders.

“Let us pray for peace and prosperity of our dear country. The skills and competencies of the leaders are not enough; let us pray for divine wisdom for us to be able to steer the country out of the current socio-economic turbulence. Together, we shall overcome our challenges.”

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen has harped on the need to develop the nation’s technical and vocational education to impact positively on national development by equipping the youths with practical skills. 

The speaker, who spoke at a public hearing organised by the House Committee on Polytechnics and Higher Technical Education sais there is the need to amend existing laws or introduce new ones to improve Nigeria’s technical and vocational education. 

The Speaker who was represented by the Chairman of the House Committee on Students Loan, Ifeoluwa Ehindero said as part of efforts to promote social sector reform and development, the House of Representatives recognised the need to address the multi-faceted challenges across the various segments of the education sector, one of which is technical education. 

He said: “We believe that reforming and modernizing technical education is crucial for developing skills that are necessary for propelling Nigeria’s economic growth and development. 

“To achieve this, we made a commitment to amend existing laws or introduce new ones to improve Nigeria’s technical and vocational education. 

“In recent years, there has been an increasing recognition of the critical role that technical and vocational education plays in national development. 

“It is no longer sufficient for our educational institutions to merely impart theoretical knowledge; we must also equip our youths with practical skills that will enable them to thrive in a fast-evolving global economy that is characterized by stiff competition. 

“Therefore, the establishment of these institutions is a crucial step in our resolve to bridge the gap between knowledge and employment”.

According to Speaker Abbas, the proposed Federal Polytechnic, Adikpo, Benue State is expected to provide essential training opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs in science, technical education and management science, adding that it is envisaged that this Polytechnic will focus on equipping individuals with management, technical and entrepreneurial skills, necessary for fostering innovation, and economic growth and development.

Similarly, he said, the proposed National College of Entrepreneurship and Skills Acquisition, Illela, Sokoto State will address specific needs of those seeking entrepreneurial knowledge and skills tailored to meet local business needs. 

He said “as a border community, establishing this institution in Illela will not only boost commercial activities and international trade, it will also take our youth out of poverty, unemployment and cross-border crimes such as banditry, trafficking, smuggling and drug abuse, ensuring their creative energy is channeled to productive ventures.

“Overall, by aligning educational programs with regional economic activities, we can empower communities through skill acquisition and development while also addressing unemployment challenges. Let me therefore assure you that the House will continue to support every effort that seeks to improve the quality and access to all forms of education in Nigeria.

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“Given the crucial nature of these bills, I urge every stakeholder here to make very useful contributions that will enable the House to make informed decisions on them. Your insights are invaluable as we strive towards creating an inclusive educational framework that reflects our diverse needs and aspirations. You should feel free to share your perspectives, by making contributions that will help us refine these bills for further legislative action.”

Chairman of the House Committee on Polytechnics and Higher Technical Education, Fuad Lagunda said the two bills strongly align with the quest by the House for a strategic educational progress and sustainable human capital development in Nigeria. 

He said the primary objectives of establishing the Federal Polytechnic in Adikpo, Benue State and College of Entrepreneurship and Skill Acquisition in Illela Sokoto State is to teach 

and train technicians and middle-level Nigerians who will serve as catalysts for rapid industrialization and development of the real economic sector. 

He said “given the uncertainties in global economy, you will collectively agree with me that knowledge and skill in social sciences, technology, entrepreneurship, vocational, and technical education are the panacea to socio-economic development. 

“It is therefore important for us to prioritise and recognise the importance of establishing these academic and training institutions for specific purposes of driving economic growth, improving the standard of our youths, creating platform for skill acquisition, empowering human capital as well as addressing general societal challenges. 

“The passage of these Bills into Law would adequately ensure that our youths are technologically empowered to strategically address the complex challenges of 

unemployment, wealth or income inequality, and chronic poverty in our society. 

“Based on potential benefits of these institutions, | urge us all to work collaboratively as patriots towards a successful deliberation by approaching this public hearing with an open and teachable mind, willingness to learn, and commitment to finding sustainable solutions to our educational challenges. 

“More importantly, let us work together towards ensuring a productive educational sector for the overall benefits of our dear citizens and the nation at large”. 

Speaker of the House of Representatives Abbas Tajudeen said on Thursday that nearly 60% of African women lack basic literacy skills, a stark barrier to both personal advancement and national development.

The Speaker, however, applauded the resilience of Nigerian women who, despite all odds, have triumphed in their chosen careers, setting the pace for others to follow.

The Speaker spoke at the Nigerian Women Leadership and Empowerment conference with the theme, “Investing in Nigerian Women, Securing Our Future,” organised by the House Committee on Women Affairs.

He said despite the achievements of Nigerian women that are being celebrated, significant challenges persist with discriminatory social norms, limited access to education, and economic marginalisation constrains the vast potential of our daughters and sisters.

 Speaker Abbas said that the 1999 Constitution (as amended) underscores that the security and welfare of the people is the primary purpose of government (Section 14[2][b]), while emphasising that “the State social order is founded on ideals of Freedom, Equality, and Justice” (Section 17[1]).

According to him, Section 42 of the Constitution prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, reinforcing the fundamental principle that no Nigerian woman should be held back by law or custom, adding that in building a just and progressive Nigeria, it is impossible to overstate the importance of promoting women’s welfare and upholding the spirit of our Constitution.

The speaker said, “Nigeria’s history is replete with courageous women whose remarkable contributions have shaped the country’s trajectory. The pioneering women of our past, who broke barriers with steadfast resolve, laid the foundation for the progress we witness today.

“Their legacies urge us to continue the vital work of forging an inclusive, just, and prosperous nation, one grounded in constitutional ideals of equality and social welfare. Their stories remind us that we must not only dream of a better future but also act decisively to create it, ensuring that every Nigerian woman can thrive.

“In our present global and domestic context, investing in Nigerian women is not a luxury, but a strategic imperative. Empowerment drives economic growth, fortifies food security, and strengthens the core of our communities. When we invest in our women, we invest in our farms, our markets, and in every child’s future.

“We have seen Rwanda set a powerful precedent by using gender quotas to propel more women into positions of power, yielding progressive legislation and community transformation.

“We have also witnessed how microfinance initiatives in Bangladesh revitalised local economies by enabling women to become successful entrepreneurs. These examples should galvanise us to create a future in which Nigerian women, equipped with the necessary resources and opportunities, can elevate our nation to extraordinary heights.

“Despite the achievements we celebrate, significant challenges persist. Discriminatory social norms, limited access to education, and economic marginalisation constrain the vast potential of our daughters and sisters.

“Nearly 60% of African women lack basic literacy skills—a stark barrier to both personal advancement and national development.

Read Also: Tax Reform Bill: We will balance public interest with revenue overhaul – Speaker Abbas, Faleke

“Equally pressing is women’s underrepresentation in our political institutions. Earlier this week, on Monday, 24th February, I led a sensitisation campaign on drug abuse and gender-based violence in Kaduna, reflecting my unwavering resolve that our women must be not only safe but also empowered to succeed in all spheres of life.

“Addressing these issues is fundamental, not only for the well-being of women but also for nurturing safer, healthier communities across Nigeria. Our response to these challenges must be bold and pragmatic.

“Under Section 17 of the Constitution, which guarantees equality of rights and opportunities. The 10th House of Representatives has introduced a Legislative Agenda that prioritises women’s political participation and economic empowerment.

“As part of these commitments, the House has created two committees specifically dedicated to women’s issues and ensured the inclusion of all female members of the House in the Constitution Amendment Committee.

“Additionally, only yesterday(Wednesday, February 36), I formally requested our party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), to include all its female members in the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC), resulting in four women now holding NEC positions.

“Such measures are vital to guaranteeing that women’s perspectives actively inform the legislative framework and policy directions guiding our national development.

“Within this Agenda, we also advocate for legislative reforms that reintroduce special seats for women in our legislative houses and mandate quotas within political parties, thereby securing meaningful representation for women in public office.

“I call on all State Houses of Assembly to endorse these proposals when they come forward in the Constitution Amendment process. By doing so, we uphold the Constitution’s mandate to foster social welfare and equality for every citizen.

“Beyond the political realm, we must continue to expand targeted funding programmes that empower female entrepreneurs to drive innovation and generate employment opportunities. I understand that this conference dedicates a session to that subject, and I encourage you to explore practical approaches.

“These may include implementing robust microfinance schemes tailored specifically to the needs of Nigerian women, complemented by government-led training, mentorship, and capital access initiatives for women-owned enterprises.

“Learning from global best practices and adapting them to the Nigerian context will allow us to unlock women’s immense potential, cultivating economic growth that benefits us all.

“On our part, the Tenth House of Representatives remains firmly committed to securing justice and equity for Nigerian women.

“In line with the Constitution’s ideals, we shall continue to exercise diligent oversight of government institutions to ensure adherence to the National Gender Policy, bolster the women’s caucus to champion gender-specific issues effectively, and support electoral reforms that ensure a fixed quota of female candidates while providing special seats for women in both the Senate and the House.

“We will also enact robust legislation to safeguard women in politics from violence and intimidation, thereby aligning our political framework with the Constitution’s principles of fairness and freedom. Concurrently, the ongoing amendments to the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP) aim to address contemporary challenges and fortify women’s rights.”

The National Assembly will continue to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms, House of Representatives Speaker Abbas Tajudeen said yesterday.

The reforms are targeted at improving the nation’s revenue profile, a statement by his media aide Musa Abdullahi Krishi, said.

Tajudeen, who spoke while hosting the leadership of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) assured that the 10th House is pro-business, a reason why the legislature made sure that business in the private sector is part of its legislative agenda.

The Speaker said the policy document proposes how the private sector could become the major engine of development in the country.

He explained that the agenda includes, but not limited to, enhancing ease of doing business in Nigeria through legislative reforms; supporting infrastructural development and economic diversification; promoting innovation, technology, and industrialisation; strengthening institutions that facilitate private sector engagements.

Speaker Abbas said the House is a worthy partner with the LCCI to ensure that “all these noble objectives are achieved.”

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He added: “The House is a pro-business legislature, and that is why we are at the center of supporting Mr. President on the tax reforms. Our revenue base is one of the weakest in Africa and in the world. And it is so because the private sector has not been enabled well.

“The private sector would have been the engine room that will drive more revenue for this country, and that is the reason the tax reforms of Mr. President are exceptional at this crucial time. We will support it because it is pro-business.

“Tax reforms will eliminate duplication in taxes, unnecessary bureaucracy in business such that both the local and the international businesses will be able to do better. That is what we will not compromise, and that is the only way forward for our country to grow.

“We will pursue all legislative intervention that is needed in ensuring that the private sector thrives.”

Recognising the LCCI’s consistent advocacy for a conducive business environment in Nigeria, the Speaker commended the chamber for protecting the interests of both local and foreign businesses.

“Truly, that is the way forward; that is what we expect of an association of your size… to look at the global picture, not protectionism,” he said.