Tag: Abbas

Speaker Abbas Tajudeen has assured Nigerians that the House will expedite action on the passage of the new National Minimum Wage Bill once it receives it from the Executive arm.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, the Speaker lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for agreeing to a new national minimum wage of N70,000 for the Nigerian workers.

The statement quoted the Speaker as saying that President Tinubu’s action has shown that he is a compassionate and empathic leader who cares about the welfare of the citizens.

According to him, this significant agreement with the organized labour reflects the President’s profound understanding, and sensitivity to the challenges facing Nigerian workers, aligning seamlessly with his Renewed Hope agenda.

Speaker Abbas said the new national minimum wage would go a long way in ameliorating the plight of average Nigerians.

Read Also: Nigeria, United States reaffirm commitment to strengthen bilateral trade

He said: “I am elated by the action of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the minimum wage. He has demonstrated good leadership by acceding to a national minimum wage of 70,000.

“President Tinubu’s proactive approach in addressing the pressing issues within the labour sector is commendable. His acceptance to also meet the demands of university unions concerning unpaid salaries further demonstrates his unwavering commitment to fostering a fair and just working environment for all Nigerians.

“I believe, with President Tinubu, Nigeria is on the path of greatness. We are lucky to have a listening and a compassionate leader at this moment of our history.

“I congratulate Nigerians on this historic development, which would go a long way in addressing some of the challenges we face as a nation.”

He said the House “stands ready to support this landmark decision. The House is fully prepared to give expedited consideration and passage to the new minimum wage bill once the President transmits it. 

“Should it necessitate a special sitting of the House, the House will ensure that the legislative process is swift and efficient, reflecting its dedication to improving the lives of Nigerian workers and bringing succour to them.”

He called on Nigerians to continue placing their trust in the President’s vision. He also advocated that Nigerians embrace the path of peaceful settlement and dialogue at all times, and work together to build a prosperous and united Nigeria. 

The speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has congratulated Nigerian Muslims and their counterparts around the world as they mark the New Islamic Year 1446, After Hijrah (AH).

Sunday, July 7, 2024, marks the 1st Muharram, which is the first month in the Islamic Calendar.

In a congratulatory message signed by his special adviser on media and publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, the speaker urged the Muslim Ummah to rededicate themselves to the worship of Allah (SWT).

Speaker Abbas noted that the New Islamic Year 1446 (AH) should serve as an avenue for more prayers to the nation and its leaders, noting that our Creator answers genuine prayers from His creatures, especially human beings.

He called for more peaceful coexistence among Muslims and the people of other faiths in the country, noting that nothing can be achieved in an atmosphere devoid of peace and unity.

The Speaker wished Muslims happy celebrations of the New Islamic Year, even as he urged them to be cautious. He equally wished them and other Nigerians Allah’s blessings and protection in the New Year.

In a similar message, the National Chairman of the Action Democratic Party (ADP), Engr. Sani Yabagi asked Muslims to show love for one another as they mark the Islamic New Year

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He said: “We felicitate with the Muslim ummah in Nigeria and indeed, all over the world. A time like this gives us much joy and we celebrate in diverse ways.

“However, it is also paramount to reflect on the ideals of the festivity and the injunctions handed us by Prophet Mohammed (SAW). This is a time for reflection, devotion, and acts of kindness. We, therefore, urge Muslim brothers and sisters and indeed the entire people of Nigeria to make it a duty to show compassion and love for another.

“We should go by the teaching of Islam which is peace and be our brother’s keeper. We should show sympathy for the people. Those in government should show a sense of nationalism and strive to give Nigerians succour.

“They should lead by example, give up profligate spending and diversion of state resources. Resources allotted should be judiciously utilized for the purpose. It is only by so doing that the mass of the people can feel the impact of government and give it the needed support for the implementation of programmes.

“Muslim ummah should help the less privileged to ease the pains they face every day following the poor state of affairs. We as a party pray for God’s help, wisdom, direction, and guidance to set the pace for a true national rebirth.

“Nigeria can only be better when we all join hands together and are united in prayers and struggle for common good. At this time, we offer special prayers for adequate rainfall, a bumper harvest as well as for peace, unity, growth, and prosperity of Nigeria.

“We seek tolerance and collaborative efforts among the diverse people of our country to promote socio-economic development.”

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen has been awarded the Parliamentary Excellence Award in recognition of his innovative leadership, capacity building, and stability of the House, among other achievements.

The award was presented to Speaker Abbas by Vice President, Kashim Shettima, on Saturday night in Abuja at the 2024 Nigerian Excellence Awards in Public Service (NEAPS).

Special adviser to the speaker on media and publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi said in a statement that Speaker Abbas received the award after a successful House Open Week, held between Wednesday, July 3, and Friday, July 5, where he unveiled the one-year scorecard of the 10th House.

In the scorecard, Speaker Abbas explained how the 10th House under his leadership ensured an inclusive and participatory legislature in the past year.

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The speaker also noted that the House has been implementing its Legislative Agenda, which it introduced in October 2023 diligently.

Under his leadership, the Green Chamber introduced a total of 1,351 bills, the highest number in any first session since 1999, with 89 of the bills passed.

He emphasised that the most critical aspect of citizen engagement is accountability, noting that, “The 10th House of Representatives has been committed to running an open House that actively incorporates citizens’ input in lawmaking and oversight processes.”

Other distinguished Nigerians who received awards in different categories included the President of the Senate, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio; Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila; governors of Gombe, Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya; Nasarawa, Engr. Abdullahi Sule; Bauchi, Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed; Adamawa, Ahmadu Fintiri; Niger, Umar Mohammed Bago; Zamfara, Dauda Lawal; Ogun, Dapo Abiodun; Enugu, Peter Ndubuisi Mba; Senator Sani Musa; Hon. James Abiodun Faleke; Hon. Muktar Aliyu Betara; FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike; CBN Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, among many others.

The NEAPS 2024 is a collaboration between the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) and a private firm, The Best Strategic PR (TBS). It was first instituted in 2022.

Speaker of the Hosue of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen; Etsu Nupe and chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers, Yahaya Abubakar and the President of the Nigeria Bar Association, Yakubu Maikyau (SAN) recommend that the traditional rulers be given a constitutional role because of the critical role they have to play in addressing the security challenges facing the country.

The royal father and the NBA President are among the speakers who advocated a constitutional role for traditional rulers on the second day of the first-ever Legislative Open Week organized by the House of Representatives.

The royal father said it was regrettable that the constitutional role contained in the nation’s past constitutions was removed in the 1999 constitution while several attempts to bring it back have so far yielded no positive results.

The Etsu Nupe who is also the chairman of the Niger state council of traditional rulers said further that the current insecurity in the country can best be addressed by the traditional rulers because they are conversant with their environment and knows their subjects very well.

He stressed that when the colonial masters came into the country, they met an already well-established traditional institution which they worked with to achieve their aim.

The NBA President also said that there should be a constitutional provision for the sources of funding for the traditional institution since they cannot do anything without funds, adding that without adequate funds, the traditional rulers will not be able to do anything concrete even if they are granted a constitutional role.

According to him, the current legislative framework which he said is outdated has rendered traditional rulers ineffective, adding that the old laws limit the performance of the traditional institutions.

He argued that if the government is interested in addressing the current security challenges, there must be a constitutional role for the traditional institution as those saddled with the responsibility of governing the people at the traditional level know their people and know how to easily identify strangers and criminals among them.

Maikyau said the traditional rulers are like security men who cannot leave their domain no matter the situation and should therefore be accorded the important place they deserve in the country.

Speaker of the House, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen said the open week was organised to provide an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect, think and ponder over the issue of local government autonomy and the constitutional role of traditional rulers.

Speaker Abbas said through the views expressed by stakeholders at the event, the House will know what to do with the issue of traditional rulers and what members of the House can do to redeem the country and bring back the nation’s heritage.

Read Also: Speaker Abbas presents one-year scorecard, harps on collaboration

He said given the importance the House attached to the issue of traditional rulers, it created two special committees (Committee on State and Local Government and Committee on Traditional Institution).

He said the House believes that the traditional rulers have a great role to play in adding value to Nigerian society addressing the current challenges facing the nation and enhancing a better society.

The Speaker said with a constitutional role for traditional rulers, security in the country will be better enhanced, adding that he expected the two-house committees to drive the process of constitutional role for traditional rulers in the country.

The traditional ruler of Idjerhe Kingdom in Delta state, Monday Obukohwo Whiskey said there are certain problems that the government cannot solve on their own without the intervention of the traditional rulers.

He regretted that before now, there was a constitutional role for traditional rulers which was later removed from the constitution, adding that Nigerians need to retrace their steps and bring back the constitutional role.

The paramount ruler of Igbora Oke in Ondo state, Oba Francis Agbede said the traditional rulers know everyone that comes into their community and know how to address the challenges they pose, but stressed that because they lack the legal backing, they have not been able to do much.

He called for adequate funding of the traditional institutions by giving them security votes to enable them to address some of the security and other challenges facing them.

He commended the government and the House of Representatives for the steps being taken to grant autonomy to local government, saying doing so will enhance development at the local government level

National Treasurer of the Nigeria Guild of Editors, Steve Nwosu said trying to give the traditional rulers a constitutional role, they must be isolated from political interference in other to accord them the respect they deserve.

Also speaking, the representative of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF Chief Oviewe Ominimini said the powers of the state governors to remove a traditional ruler was bad since the traditional rulers are appointed by the kingmakers, adding that there should be a provision in the constitution to prevent the removal of traditional rulers by state governors.

On funding for the traditional institution, he said that the 5 percent of local government funds that the constitution allowed be given to the traditional institutions and the local government funds have been hijacked by the governors.

He advocated that funds meant for the traditional institution should be placed on the first line charge to ensure that such funds are not appropriated by the governors, while the traditional rulers should be made to have a representative in the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee.

He also advocated for the scrapping of the Local Government Joint Account and the State Independent National Electoral Commission to allow the Independent National Electoral Commission to conduct local government elections.

In the alternative, he said local government should be delisted from the constitution as a tier of government to allow states to create as many local government areas they wish to create and administer.

Chairman of the House Committee on Electoral Matters, Hon. Bayo Balogun (APC, Lagos) said what some traditional rulers are paid in parts of the country is less than the minimum wage of Nigerian workers.

He stressed the need to revisit the land use act which he said took the land away from the traditional rulers and vested the power to allocate land on governors thereby denying the traditional rulers’ source of revenue.

He advocated the inclusion of representatives of the traditional rulers in the state security council as well as the state land allocation committee, while 15 percent of revenue from ground rent should be reserved for the traditional rulers.

Chairman of the House Committee on Inter-Governmental Affairs, Hon. Canice Moore Nwachukwu said the traditional rulers should be prevented from getting involved in politics as the constant involvement in politics will always lead to issues.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, on Wednesday, July 3, gave a scorecard of the House under his leadership in the last year.

Abbas, who spoke at the opening of the first legislative week of the House to mark its first anniversary, said the open week is part of efforts by the House to remain accountable to the Nigerian people whom they represent.

He said the open week is significant to the House, describing the open parliament as the cornerstone of a thriving democracy.

The speaker said that by ensuring transparency, openness, and accessibility, the House can build trust between the legislature and the citizens they serve, saying, “This House Open Week provides a unique opportunity to engage directly with the public, fostering a culture of accountability and mutual respect.

“By opening our doors, we invite scrutiny and dialogue, which are essential for improving governance and strengthening democratic institutions.”

The Speaker said the 10th House of Representatives has been committed to running an open House that actively incorporates citizens’ input in lawmaking and oversight processes and has made concerted efforts to listen to the voices of their constituents and reflect their aspirations in the legislative activities.

He said: “Through town hall meetings, public hearings, and stakeholder engagements, we have ensured that the legislative process remains inclusive and participatory. This approach not only enhances the quality of our laws but also ensures that our decisions are rooted in the genuine needs and desires of the Nigerian people”.

He described accountability as one of the most critical aspects of citizen engagement, saying today, we take a historic step by presenting the Scorecard of the House in its first year. This is the first time any chamber of the National Assembly has undertaken such an initiative.

“By doing so, we demonstrate our commitment to transparency and readiness to be held accountable by the people we serve. Presenting our Scorecard publicly allows us to showcase our achievements, acknowledge our challenges, and highlight our plans for the future. It reinforces the idea that the parliament is not just a body that makes laws but an institution that is responsible to its constituents for its actions and performance.

“This performance assessment was undertaken to evaluate how effectively the 10th House of Representatives has implemented its legislative agenda within its first session.”

Speaker Abbas stressed that the assessment serves as an instrument to gauge the level of preparedness and institutional capacity of the 10th House to deliver on its mandate amid challenging national circumstances, (ii) to assess the maturity of our democracy, which is largely dependent on the efficiency of the legislative arm of government, and (iii) to document the assessment report as a valuable resource in the growing literature of legislative activism.

Accessing the performance of the House In its first session, the Speaker revealed that “the House introduced 1,351 bills, the highest number in any first session since 1999. Of these, 89 bills were passed, reflecting the House’s commitment to legislative efficiency and effectiveness.

“The legislative agenda prioritises economic empowerment and diversification to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on oil exports. Key bills include the Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023, which aims to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of Nigeria’s electricity sector by promoting investment in renewable energy sources.

“Furthermore, the Federal Audit Service Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023, strengthens financial oversight and transparency, ensuring better management of public funds and reducing corruption.”

The Speaker also highlighted some of the basic achievements of the House in its first legislative year including the passage of some critical bills such as the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2023, the Federal Fire and Rescue Service Bill, 2023, the Oath Act (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2023, the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons Bill, 2023,

The Niger Delta Development Commission Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023, among others.

He said further that the 10th House has also played a pivotal role in mediating conflicts and ensuring the smooth resolution of crises before they escalate, notable among which is their intervention is with the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and their swift proactive engagement with the Nigerian Teachers Union and the Nigerian Medical Association.

The Speaker said the various legislative activities highlighted in our Scorecard were made possible by the harmonious relationship between the 10th House of Representatives and the other arms of government in the first year of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

Read Also: Speaker Abbas: Despite efforts, Nigerians still struggle with poverty, unemployment

“This should be appreciated against the backdrop of the familiar friction associated with the legislative and executive arms in the earlier part of the democratisation process. Without prejudice to the requirement of checks and balances, which is the hallmark of democracy, the 10th House Representatives, the executive, and judicial arms of government have continued to enjoy mutual institutional support for democratic good governance.”

He said although the 10th House of Representatives has achieved significant milestones during the period under review, it is important to acknowledge that these accomplishments are not exhaustive of the legislative agenda articulated at the onset of the inauguration of the House.

While attributing the progress made so far to the substantial sacrifices, he said unity of purpose, patriotic commitment to service, and purposeful leadership have been responsible for the achievement, adding that there is yet room for improvement in the performance of the House in the years ahead.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has said that despite efforts by leaders of the executive and the legislature, Nigeria has continued to grapple with issues of poverty, unemployment, and inequality.

In an address read on his behalf by the deputy speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, at the commencement of the second session of the House, the speaker informed his colleagues that those who elected them have high expectations from them.

He said: “The expectations of our constituents remain high, and they look up to us to address pressing issues such as security, economy, healthcare, education, and infrastructure. The gains of democracy must translate into tangible improvements in the lives of our citizens.”

Speaker Abbas reminded the House that “at the heart of this democratic journey has been the legislature, an institution that epitomizes the participatory character of our democracy.

“The National Assembly, comprising the Senate and the House of Representatives, has played a pivotal role in ensuring that the aspirations and interests of Nigerians are represented, laws are made for the peace and progress of the country, and the executive is held accountable.

“The 10th House, in its First Session, has continued to uphold these tenets and the legacy of previous sessions before us. Throughout our first session, each one of you has demonstrated unwavering dedication and integrity in carrying out our duties.

“We have engaged in robust debates, passed crucial legislation, conducted thorough oversight, and stood firm in representing the diverse voices of our nation. Together, we have shown what true public service looks like – selfless, principled, and committed to the common good.

“We have passed numerous laws that have shaped our economic landscape, reformed key sectors, and strengthened our democratic institutions.

“The House introduced 1,351 bills, the highest number in any first session since 1999. Out of this impressive number, 89 bills were passed, reflecting the House’s commitment to legislative efficiency and effectiveness.

“Key bills include the Access to Higher Education Act, 2024, popularly known as the Students Loan Bill, and the Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023, which aims to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of Nigeria’s electricity sector by promoting investment in renewable energy sources. Furthermore, the Federal Audit Service Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023, strengthens financial oversight and transparency, ensuring better management of public funds and reducing corruption.

“Additionally, 679 motions were introduced, setting a record for the number of motions in the first session. One of the core functions of the legislature is oversight. Through public hearings, investigative committees, and rigorous debates, we have held the executive accountable, ensuring that public funds are used judiciously and that government policies are aligned with the needs of the people.

“Our oversight activities have led to significant outcomes, including recovering misappropriated funds and rectifying administrative inefficiencies.

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“We have rigorously engaged citizens in our various activities out of the firm understanding that we are here at the people’s instance. We have considered a good number of public petitions, prioritized constituency engagements, and held productive citizens’ town halls on budget considerations, electoral reforms, and the articulation of legislative agendas.

“We couldn’t have done otherwise given our appellation as the People’s House. As we begin this second session, we must acknowledge that there are challenges ahead. Despite our efforts, Nigeria continues to grapple with issues of poverty, unemployment, and inequality.

“The expectations of our constituents remain high, and they look up to us to address pressing issues such as security, economy, healthcare, education, and infrastructure. The gains of democracy must translate into tangible improvements in the lives of our citizens.

“As legislators, we are aware that our work is far from complete. We must continue to enact laws that promote economic growth, social justice, and environmental sustainability. In this regard, we must strengthen our institutions and enhance our legislative processes.

“We must invest in capacity building for legislators and staff, improve our data collection and analysis capabilities, and foster greater collaboration with civil society and the private sector. Transparency, accountability, and public participation must remain the cornerstones of our legislative agenda.

“As I noted in my July 4, 2023 speech, this House has been called upon to serve at one of the most challenging times in our nation’s history. However, it is a privilege to serve as a member of this esteemed House at such a critical juncture in Nigeria’s history.

“Our nation faces numerous challenges. Yet, it is precisely during times like these that strong leadership and decisive actions are needed most. We have been entrusted with the responsibility to steer our country towards a brighter future, and I have full confidence in our collective ability to rise to the occasion.

“Let me at this juncture renew my pledge as your Speaker to remain fair and open to all, irrespective of our political views and affiliations. I serve you as a servant-leader, committed to upholding the principles of democracy and ensuring that every voice is heard in this hallowed chamber.

“I humbly acknowledge that my role as Speaker places me as the first among equals in this august assembly. I do not see myself as a boss but rather as a facilitator of dialogue, a preserver of order, and a champion of democratic ideals.

“We are all colleagues here, united by our shared commitment to serving the people who have entrusted us with their hopes and aspirations. Each one of us brings unique perspectives and experiences to this House, and it is through collaboration and mutual respect that we can truly serve the interests of our nation.

“I pledge to uphold the values of inclusivity, transparency, accountability, and respect for all in all our deliberations and actions.

Together, let us demonstrate to our constituents that their trust in us is not misplaced and that we are worthy stewards of their hopes and aspirations.

He announced a plan by the House to hold the first-ever House open week to mark the end of its first session and the commencement of its second session.

He said: “The event will kick off with the presentation of the House’s scorecard detailing our achievements and challenges over the past year. We will also have the honour of hosting prominent Nigerians and former presiding officers who will share their perspectives on our performance during this period. This reflective session will provide valuable insights into our strengths and areas for improvement.

“Various engagements have been planned over three days to discuss the strategic legislative priorities outlined in our Legislative Agenda. These sessions are designed to facilitate discussions, debates, and reflections on our deliberations, celebrate our achievements, and reaffirm our commitment to serving with integrity and diligence.

“It is my hope that this event will not only strengthen our bonds as colleagues but also reinforce our dedication to fulfilling our legislative duties with excellence.”

“Your engagement, input, and commitment are crucial in ensuring that we collectively chart a course that aligns with the interests of those we represent. Let us seize this opportunity to engage meaningfully with our people, exchange ideas, and work towards common goals for the betterment of our nation.”

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, said on Monday, July 1, that terrorism, banditry, piracy, human trafficking, human rights abuses, the impact of climate change, and bad governance have constituted serious impediments to the peace, security, and economic development of the West African sub-region

Speaking at the opening of the 2024 first ordinary session of the ECOWAS Parliament in Abuja, Abbas said these challenges have placed greater responsibility on the ECOWAS Parliament to continue to carry out its legislative functions with increased vigour, passion, and commitment.

He said that despite the myriads of challenges confronting the sub-region, the ECOWAS Parliament has remained strong, resolute, and committed to promoting the ideals of democratic governance, economic integration, peace and security.

According to him, since its establishment by the ECOWAS Treaty in 1975, the ECOWAS Parliament has contributed immensely to strengthening representative democracy, promoting and defending human rights, democracy, and the rule of law, transparency, accountability and good governance in the sub-region.

He said the ECOWAS parliament, “has also been actively involved in promoting peace, security and stability. While I feel greatly delighted to commend the ECOWAS Parliament for these invaluable contributions, we must also acknowledge that these multifaceted challenges are still confronting the sub-region in new and complex dimensions.

“Terrorism, banditry, piracy, human trafficking, human rights abuses, the impact of climate change, and bad governance have remained serious impediments to the peace, security, and economic development of our sub-region.

“These challenges have placed greater responsibility on the ECOWAS Parliament to continue to carry out its legislative functions with increased vigour, passion, and commitment. It is my sincere hope that this session of the parliament will produce resolutions that will impact positively and go a long way in mitigating these challenges.

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“However, it is important to stress that any resolutions reached will amount to nothing if there is no commitment and cooperation on the part of ECOWAS member states. Let me therefore take this auspicious occasion to appeal to our leaders to commit to implementing resolutions of the parliament for the greater good of our sub-region.

“The current challenges confronting our sub-region cannot be decisively addressed unless there is unity of purpose, partnership and cooperation in our decisions and actions”.

Speaker Abbas assured that Nigeria under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to defending and promoting democratic governance, the rule of law and human rights in our sub-region.

He said: “On our part, the Nigerian Parliament is committed to supporting the president through legislative measures that will provide a robust framework for Nigeria’s foreign policy, strengthening of diplomatic relations, promoting economic interests, enhancing security cooperation, and promoting regional and global peace.

“Let me also assure you that we shall continue to cooperate and partner with the ECOWAS Parliament in the areas of building legislative capacity, sharing of experiences, and ensuring that resolutions passed are implemented.

“In doing this, we shall take advantage of Nigeria’s strong representation in the ECOWAS Parliament to push for debates and resolutions that will be of immense political, economic, and social benefits to our sub-region.

“Thankfully, West Africa is hugely endowed with human and material resources that can transform the sub-region into a model for democracy, economic prosperity, peace and political stability. Let us work together to ensure that this noble goal is achieved.”