Tag: NASS

…bill seeks police status for Sergeant at Arms

The House of Representatives is considering a bill that will make it mandatory for the head of the National Assembly security known as Sergent-At-Arms to be appointed from among staff of the security department of the Assembly. 

The bill sponsored by the Spokesman of the House, Hon. Akintunde Rotimi seeks to provide for the establishment of a Legislative Security Directorate which will be headed by an with an equivalent rank of a Secretary in the service of the National Assembly to be appointed by the National Assembly Service Commission on the recommendation of the Clerk to the National Assembly.

Presently, the Head of the Sergeant at Arms is appointed from among retired senior secuy personnel. 

The bill titled: “An Act to provide for the establishment and functions of Legislative Security Directorate in the National Assembly; to provide for the qualification and condition of service of the Sergeant at Arms and other personnel of the directorate and for related matters, 2024” was read for the first time on Thursday, September 26, 2024.

 The bill also seeks to provide for a four year renewable term for the Head if the Sergeant At Arms, adding that “any person appointed or serving as the Sergeant-At-Arms or other personnel appointed and serving as sergeant-At-Arms on the day the Bill comes into force, shall be deemed to have been appointed or serving under this Bill”.

According to the bill sighted by The Nation, when created, the directorate is expected to ensure the safety and security of lives and property in the National Assembly complex and its precincts, provide physical security and protection to lawmakers, staff, and visitors in the National Assembly complex and its precincts, manage access to the two Chambers of the National Assembly and controlling entry to the National Assembly complex and its precincts.

The directorate is also expected to conduct threats and risk assessments to identify potential threats to the security and safety of the National Assembly complex and its precincts, and taking appropriate actions to address them, respond to emergencies such as, active shooters, bomb threats, fire and other security incidents and manage public order and demonstration in the National Assembly complex and its precincts.

In addition, the directorate is expected to work closely with other security and intelligence agencies to share information and intelligence relating to any threat or risk in the National Assembly complex and its precincts, maintain order in plenary, meetings and other parliamentary events as may be directed by the Presiding Officers or Committee Chairmen.

It will also enforce the directive of the two Chambers, rules and regulations relating to security, and code of conduct of the two Chambers respectfully, supervise and coordinate other security and intelligence personnel deployed in the National Assembly Complex and its precincts, managing the National Assembly armoury and performing any other function as may prescribed by the Standing Orders of the two Chambers or as may be directed by the Presiding Officers or the Clerk to the National Assembly.

The proposed law states that “The Head of the Sergeant-At-Arms shall enjoy the same status as a Secretary in the National Assembly Service and shall be the head of the Directorate and responsible to the Clerk to the National Assembly for the day to-day activities of the Directorate.

“There shall be appointed to assist the Head of the Sergeant-At-Arms such other personnel as may be determined by the National Assembly Service Commission (hereinafter referred to as “the Commission’) on the recommendation of the Clerk to the National Assembly”.

It said further that the Head of the Sergeant-At-Arms shall be appointed by the Commission on the recommendation of the Clerk to the National Assembly and must have ser ed in the National Assembly for a minimum of 15 years and attained the status of at least a Deputy Director, with a minimum of 1st degree or its equivalent obtained from a recognised institution.

The proposed law also provide that the Head of the Sergeant-At-Arms shall serve for 4 years subject to renewal for another 4 years and no more, while also providing that the Head of the Sergeant-At-Arms shall cease to hold office on attainment of 60 years of age or 35 years in service, or whichever comes first.

It provide that the Conditions of Service applicable to the staff of the National Assembly Service shall be applicable to the Head of the Sergeant-At-Arms and the staff of the Directorate, adding that If the Condition of Service applicable to National Assembly staff is silence on any issue relating to the Conditions of Service of the Head of the Sergeant-At-Arms and staff of the Directorate, the condition of service applicable to the Nigeria Police Service shall be applicable to staff of the Directorate.

While stating that no person shall carry into or possess firearm in the National Assembly complex and its precincts, it provide that “any person who is authorised by law to carry or possess firearms and ammunitions shall declare such firearms and ammunitions to the Sergeant At-Arms at the point of entry into the National Assembly Complex and its precincts.

It however provide that “the Head of the Sergeant-At-Arms and other staff of the Directorate may possess or carry firearms and ammunitions within the National Assembly complex and its precincts subject to the approval of the President”.

It also states that “Firearms and ammunitions should not be used in the precincts the National Assembly and its precincts except in self-defence or defence of against the imminent threat of death or serious injury, to prevent the perpetration of a particularly serious crime involving grave threat to life, to arrest a person presenting such a danger and resisting their authority, or to prevent his or her escape, and only when less extreme means are insufficient to achieve these objectives”.

It empowers the National Assembly to establish an armoury subject to the approval of the President, adding that “except otherwise stated in this Bill, in the performance of their functions, the Sergeant-At-Arms and staff of the Directorate shall enjoy similar powers, immunities and privileges as are applicable to members of the Nigeria Police Force”.

The bill also provide for the structure of the directorate to include  Office of the Head of the Sergeant-At-Arms, Sergeant-At-Arms Senate and Sergeant-At-Arms House of Representative with full operational division such as (a) Protective Operation, (b) Intelligent and Risk Assessment, (c) Communication and Technology, (d) Explosive Detection and Canine, (e) Personnel Security Screening, (f) Counter Terrorism, (g) Chamber Duties, and any other Department, Division or unit that may be created by the Commission on the Recommendation of the Clerk to the National Assembly.

Fifteen civil society organisations have presented the Citizens Memorandum containing 37 recommendations before the National Assembly to guide the lawmakers and election stakeholders on priority areas in need of immediate attention.

The recommendations covered reforming INEC, alternating the 1999 constitution and making amendments to the Electoral Act.

The text of the coalition was read to journalists at a news conference on Wednesday by the Executive Director, Centre for Media and Society (CEMESO), Dr Akin Akingbulu and Founder, ElectHER, Ibijoke Faborede in Abuja.

The coalition said these electoral reforms are designed to restore integrity, enhance efficiency, and ensure inclusivity in Nigeria’s electoral process, paving the way for more credible, fair, and democratic elections that will strengthen the nation’s political institutions and democratic culture.

Members of the coalition included: Yiaga Africa; Centre for Media and Society (CEMESO); Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC); Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA); ElectHER; International Press Centre (IPC); International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA); Justice, Development and Peace Makers Centre (JDPMC), Osogbo and Justice Development and Peace Movement (JDPM), Oyo.

Others are: Justice Development and Peace Initiative (JDPI), Ekiti; The Kukah Centre; Nigeria Women’s Trust Fund (NWTF); Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC); SOS Children’s Villages (SOS) and TAF Africa.

One of the key recommendations called for the unbundling of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Others are: INEC independence, efficiency and professionalism; Electoral offences; Election adjudication; Diaspora or Out-of-Country voting; Special Seats ; Political party reform; Constituency delimitation; Voter accreditation; Voter Register and voter registration; Women, youths and PWDs political participation (Inclusivity); Early voting; Candidate Selection; Electoral technology; Result management process; Media and elections.

They said: “As the National Assembly embarks on yet another round of electoral reforms, we present this Citizens Memorandum for Electoral Reforms as a crucial resource, which serves as a roadmap designed to guide lawmakers and all election stakeholders through priority areas in need of immediate attention. These amendments are strategic in their scope and ambitious in their vision, yet they are also rooted in practicality, responding to the realities of our current electoral system.

“The memorandum we present today focuses on three core pillars of the electoral legal framework for the conduct of elections: the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, the Electoral Act 2022, and INEC Regulations and Guidelines for Elections. Our recommendations have been carefully divided into two parts: Part I offers twenty-one (21) recommendations for constitution alterations. These proposals aim to strengthen the independence of INEC, improve the processes for electoral adjudication, and refine key constitutional provisions to ensure fairness, transparency, and inclusivity in our electoral process. Part II presents sixteen (16) proposals for amending the Electoral Act 2022. These proposals address the inadequacies, complexities, and ambiguities that have hindered the efficient application of the Act. Our aim is to reposition the electoral legal framework against the backdrop of recent landmark judicial decisions that offer pathways for reform and to make the Act more reflective of our evolving electoral needs.

“Electoral reforms as proposed in the Citizens Memorandum, will play a vital role in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy by addressing various challenges and gaps in the electoral process.

“These electoral reforms are designed to restore integrity, enhance efficiency, and ensure inclusivity in Nigeria’s electoral process, paving the way for more credible, fair, and democratic elections that will strengthen the nation’s political institutions and democratic culture.

“We are confident that the adoption of these reforms will go a long way in rebuilding public trust in Nigeria’s electoral process, enhancing the efficiency of our elections, and ensuring that the outcomes of elections reflect the true will of the people.

“On behalf of all the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations, we express our deepest appreciation to the National Assembly, INEC, civil society organisations, political parties, and other key stakeholders for their continued commitment to electoral reform in Nigeria. We also extend our gratitude to the press for your role in bringing these conversations to the forefront of public discourse.”

…as speaker pays condolence visit to Shettima

The National Assembly is collaborating with governors to provide support to states affected by the recent floods, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas revealed after meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima at the State House, Abuja.

Abbas, who spoke to journalists after he met with Vice President Shettima at the State House, Abuja, hinted at the Assembly’s efforts to aid affected states, citing his home state of Kaduna, which recently experienced similar flooding.

“We have taken measures to address that by giving palliatives and we have also reached out to NEMA and also advised to also assist the victims there,” he said.

The Speaker emphasized the Assembly’s commitment to supporting all affected states, stating, “We are making efforts with the Governor of Niger state to see what we can do by the NASS to help, and also, all the other states that are affected we will do what we can to help.”

He also said the National Assembly and the Presidency are joining forces to provide relief to victims of the devastating flooding in Maiduguri, Borno State.

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Abbas commiserated with the Vice President over the flooding incidents and discussed extensively the problems and situation of those affected.

He revealed that strategies and solutions have been designed to bring succour to the victims, which will be implemented in the next few days.

“I am here today to commiserate with His Excellency, the Vice President, over the devastating flooding incidents in Maidiguri that is the purpose of my visit here, and I used that opportunity to discuss extensively the problems and the situation of the people, particularly those affected in Maiduguri.

“We have also designed some strategies and solutions by both the NASS and the Presidency will implement in the next few days to bring succour to the victims of the flood in Maiduguri”, he said.

Asked if there were measures to ensure the ₦3 billion earmarked by the federal government for intervention in Maiduguri got to the affected people, he said: “With the governor that is known for transparency, the Governor of Borno, I am absolutely sure that whatever will be provided for them from the Presidency will be judiciously distributed, so I have no fear about that.”

Clerk to the National Assembly (NASS), Sani Magaji Tambuwal, has said that the National Assembly must be at the forefront of modernisation, transparency, and accountability.

Tambuwal, who spoke at the commencement of a four-day training for staff said the National Assembly stands as one of the pillars of the nation’s evolving democracy.

He said the effectiveness of our legislative processes and the overall impact we make on the governance of this country largely depend on your dedication and quality of services.

He said to achieve the effectiveness and efficiency required of the legislative arm of government, staff must be continually trained and re-trained to discharge their responsibilities with increased efficiency and commitment.

The Clerk reaffirmed his commitment to the development of human capacity as a core priority area of focus in his efforts to develop, strengthen, and reposition the National Assembly to carry out its statutory responsibilities.

He said training and retraining are essential components of professional growth and development, particularly in today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving work environment.

‘You may recall that upon assumption of office, the National Assembly Management under my humble leadership identified human capacity building as a core priority area of focus in our efforts to develop, strengthen, and reposition the National Assembly to carry out its statutory responsibilities.

He said the National Assembly must be at the forefront of modernisation, transparency, and accountability, and to achieve that, staff must be continually trained and re-trained to discharge their responsibilities with increased efficiency and commitment.

He disclosed that in 2023 alone, the National Assembly management successfully trained a total of Three Thousand, Nine Hundred Ninety Staff on Salary Grade Levels from 4 to 16 with adequate skills and capability to discharge their duties effectively.

He said this year’s historic 4-day capacity building programme is dedicated to fostering re-orientation for improved productivity and effective service delivery.

In his words: “Only through continuous training and retraining will staff stay up-to-date with industry trends as well as expand their career opportunities to drive innovation, productivity and success in their fields”.

“As you are all aware, the National Assembly stands as one of the pillars of our evolving democracy. The effectiveness of our legislative processes and the overall impact we make on the governance of this country largely depend on your dedication and quality of services.

You have always worked behind the scenes, ensuring the smooth functioning of the National Assembly by rendering diverse support services ranging from scrutinising and cleaning bills to organisation of committee sessions, legislative research, and administrative oversight.

He further stressed that the capacity-building initiative is not only an occasion for learning and skill enhancement; but also a profound step towards renewing commitment to excellence in service to the legislature and our country at large.

He charged the workers to adapt and acquire new skills to remain relevant and competitive: “As new technologies emerge, industries shift and job requirements change, to all participants, I encourage you to approach this training with an open mind and a determination to improve. Our collective progress depends on your contributions.

Chairman National Assembly Service Commission, Engr. Ahmed Kadi Amshi said the staff has the responsibility of supporting the vital work of the elected representatives in the National Assembly.

“In these times of change and challenges, it is more important that we redouble our efforts to deliver the highest standards of service and support to the members of the National Assembly.

Read Also: NASS committee chair flays protest organisers for promoting wanton killings, destruction of properties

The public rightly expects efficient, effective, and responsive governance, and it falls on us to provide services that create a conducive atmosphere for that to happen in our respective duties and responsibilities.

He said the commission is committed to driving a renewed focus on staff training and professional development, streamlining processes, and fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement by empowering the workforce and embracing modern, technology-enabled ways of working, to enhance productivity and responsiveness at every level.  

“I also pledge to strengthen transparency and accountability within the National Assembly Service, between the management and the Commission. We must be a model of good governance, earning the trust of the National Assembly leadership and the citizens we ultimately serve.

The Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Interior, Abdullahi Aliyu Ahmed, has blasted the organizers of the recent nationwide hunger protests, for having promoted wanton killings and destruction of properties in the land

Aliyu Ahmed who was reacting to the recent nationwide protests in a statement issued to journalists by his Special Assistant on Media, Sardauna Francis, also called on the youths to discontinue protests and dialogue with the government for the improvement of the economy and national development programmes

Ahmed who is the member representing Musawa/Matazu Federal Constituency of Katsina State, told the youths that their voice have been heard and that both the states and federal government have put in place various measures to quell the nation’s challenges.

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He further expressed dismay that some hoodlums and unscrupulous elements had hijacked the protests, looted and destroyed critical national economic assets, adding that such nefarious activities would further compound the problems of the country.

He said, “Protests in Nigeria usually open doors for looters and hoodlums on Nigerian streets or groups of misfits to assume advantage of the day, without fulfilling the public’s concerned intentions and objectives”.

“In the light of reports of looting, destruction, and loss of lives in some parts of the country, I use this medium to beseech all fellow citizens to shun protests and embrace dialogue as a more civilised alternative to drive our demands home for the collective well-being of all Nigerians.”

The 10th National Assembly has reiterated its commitment to enacting relevant laws that would make the country conducive for the youth to remain and contribute to national development.

The Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, gave the assurance on Saturday in Abuja at the 2024 Conference & 6th National Discourse organised by the Companion.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that it is an association of Muslim men in businesses and other professions.

NAN also reports that the theme of the conference was: ‘Between Patriotism & Self-Preservation Dilemma of the Nigerian Youth: Challenges at Home, Uncertainties Abroad’.

He said the theme of the conference aptly captured the ethical dilemmas confronting the Nigerian youth, whose skewed mind-set was not allowing them to appreciate the value and true essence of being proudly Nigerians.

Barau, who is the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, said both the legislature and the executive arms of government were working together to create opportunities for the youth to reach the zenith of their potential in life.

He said, ” Let me use this opportunity to reiterate that the 10th National Assembly under our great leader, Sen. Godswill Akpabio is committed to enacting relevant laws that will make Nigeria conducive for our youth.

” This is with a view to ensure that they (youths) remain here and contribute to national development.

” I will also ensure that given my position as the first Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, we shall have seamless legislation that will promote the socio-economic well-being of the people of our sub-region, especially the youth.”

Barau commended the organisers of the conference for creating such an auspicious platform for sharing ideas that would advance the course of national values and development.

He said, ” You couldn’t have targeted a better segment of our society than the Youth, who are leaders of today and tomorrow.

”This is because of their enormous talents, energy, creativity, courage, industry and dedication to whatever they believe in.”

On his part, the Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr Ayodele Wisdom, said President Bola Tinubu was doing everything possible to provide a conducive environment for every citizen to thrive.

He also said that Tinubu’s administration had initiated many programmes aimed at creating opportunities for the youth to be gainfully engaged.

Wisdom said some of the initiatives were the Youth Investment Fund, and the National Youth Development Bank, among numerous others.

Also, the Chairperson, Nigerian Diaspora Commission (NiDCom), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, said Nigeria had witnessed a significant spike in the emigration of its citizens, particularly among the youth.

She said, ” This trend reflects a profound dilemma faced by Nigerian youth: the tension between patriotism and self-preservation.”

Dabiri-Erewa was represented by Mr Abdulrahman Terab, Head, Technology, Transfer and Innovation (TTI) Department of the commission.

She said: ”The Nigerian youth were at a crossroad, torn between a deep love for their homeland and the urgent need for personal survival abroad.

” This glaring reality is fueled by the vivid contrast between Nigeria’s immense potential and its current challenges.

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” The case of a large exodus of youth, popularly known as the japa phenomena, to the shores of other countries for better standards of living, paints a sad picture.

” This dual dilemma requires our urgent attention and collaborative action.”

On his part, the National Amir of the Companion, Mr Kamil Olalekan, said it was estimated that Nigeria loses approximately $10 billion annually to brain drain.

He called on all public office holders to be at the vanguard of national patriotism by prioritising production and consumption of Made-In- Nigeria goods and services to boost youth employment and empowerment.

” In this way, the abundant talents, innovative and entrepreneurial spirit of our youth will be unleashed to benefit the country.”

(NAN)

The House of Representatives has decided to team up with the Senate in investigating infractions in the nation’s oil and gas sector. 

Spokesman of the House, Hon. Akintunde Rotimi said in a statement that the green chamber has constituted a seven man committee to work with the Senate in carrying out the national assignment. 

The House committee headed by the Majority Leader, Prof. Julius Ihonvbare who will serve as co-chairman of the investigative committee has one member each from the six geopolitical zone of the country. 

The Senate Committee is headed by the Senate Leader, Senator Bamidele Opeyemi. 

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Other members of the committee are Hon. Iduma Ighariwey (PDP, Ebonyi-South East), Hon. Gboyega N. Isiaka (APC, Ogun-South West), Hon. Sada Soli (APC, Katsina-North West), Hon. Fatima Talba (APC, Yobe- North East), Hon. Tunji Raheem (APC, Kwara- North Central and Hon. Patrick Umoh (APC, Akwa Ibom-South South). 

The statement said that the urgency and importance of the matter necessitated a close collaboration between the Senate and the House of Representatives on the investigation. 

It said “this new structure aims to ensure synergy, a holistic approach to addressing the issues, and ease of administrative coordination, resulting in a harmonized and efficient investigation.

“The Committee is expected to commence its duties immediately, with a clear mandate to ensure accountability and transparency in the sector.”

The leadership of the House had stripped it’s joint standing Committee on Misstep ans Downstream of the assignment of investigating infractions in the sector. 

Before the desolution, there had been calls and counter calls for the sack of the Group Chief Executive of the NNPPL, Mele Kyari and his NMDPRA, Farouk Ahmed as well as allegations of inducement. 

The House investigations was prompted by a motion sponsored by Hon. Billy Famous Osawaru (APC, Edo). 

Speaker Tajudeen Abbas has said the National Assembly is committed to addressing regulatory, infrastructural and financial challenges affecting private sector investments in the Nigerian economy.

Abbas spoke at a reception for him and Deputy, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, the leadership of the House and some committee chairmen by Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote. 

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Speaker, Levinus Nwabughiogu quoted the Speaker as saying that the House was working assiduously to create a conducive environment for businesses in the country. 

He applauded Dangote Group for the invitation to undertake a tour of the Dangote Petroleum refinery, adding that the parliament is aware of the challenges facing the private sector in Nigeria, including regulatory hurdles, infrastructure deficits and access to finance.

According to him: “The House of Representatives is committed to addressing these issues and improving the ease of doing business in the country. We are working diligently to create more business friendly environment through legislative reforms that streamline processes, reduce bureaucracy and enhance transparency.

“Our goal is to make Nigeria an attractive destination for both local and international investors. In line with the renewed agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National assembly and the House of Representatives are committed to creating an enabling environment for the private sector to thrive.

“We understand that a robust partnership between the government and private enterprises like Dangote group is essential for sustainable development.

“To this end, we are dedicated to enacting policies that support business growth, reduce bureaucratic orders and promote transparency and accountability.”

The Speaker expressed confidence that Dangote refinery will create thousands of jobs and promote local contents, saying “this fundamental project symbolizes not only the strength and potential of Nigerian industry, but also the dedication and vision of one of our most esteemed business leaders, Mr. Aliko Dangote.

“As we tour this state of the art facility, it is impossible not to appreciate the significant contributions Dangote group is making to our economy.

“From job creation to the reduction of import dependence, the refinery stands as a testament to the transformative impact that strategic investment can have on our nation. It also provides thousands of jobs, promotes local content and drives technological advancements within our borders. 

“Such efforts are crucial in our collective pursuit of economic stability and growth. The economic significance of the private sector globally cannot be overstated. Across the world, private enterprises are the engines of economic growth, driving innovation, increasing productivity and fostering competitive markets.

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“They play a critical role in work creation, poverty reduction and the overall improvement of the standards. By investing in infrastructure, technology and human capital, the private sector propels nations towards sustainable development and economic resilience.

“It is through a vibrant private sector that economies can diversify, innovate and compete on the global scale.

“Thank you so much our dear brother for hosting us today. I want to tell you very clearly that I’m amazed, I am amazed, I am excited seeing your humble contributions to Nigeria.

“I have deeper belief now that Nigeria will one day be a greater nation. The nation has always been great for us. Thank you so much for believing in Nigeria.”

The National Assembly on Thursday made history when it considered and approved President Bola Tinubu’s request to extend the implementation of the capital component of the N21.83trillion 2023 Appropriation Act and the N2.1trillion 2023 Supplementary Appropriation Act till 31st December 2024.

The extension of the implementation of the capital component of the 2023 Appropriation Act and the 2023 Supplementary Appropriation Act in essence means that the capital allocations of the 2023 Appropriation Act,

2023 Supplementary Appropriation Act and 2024 Appropriation Act will run concurrently till December 31, 2024.

The resolution of the Senate and House of Representatives followed their consideration of the request of President Tinubu urging them to approve a further extension.

A few minutes after the commencement of plenary on Tuesday and the introduction of the two bills by the Senate Leader and House Leader respectively, both chambers dissolved into an executive session to deliberate on the request from the President to extend the life span of the capital component of the 2023 budget and the 2023 supplementary budget to 31st December 2024.

The passage of the two bills will be the third time in the life span of the capital component of the 2023 budget and the 2023 supplementary budget will be extended.

Their life span was first extended to March 31, 2024 and later to June 30, 2024.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker Tajudeen Abass had read Tinubu’s letters of request in the Senate and House respectively during plenary.

Both the Senate Leader, Micheal Opeyemi Bamidele, and Leader of the House Professor Julius Ihonvbere moved separate motions urging the Senate and House respectively to suspend their relevant rules to enable consider the Bills expeditiously.

“You will recall that on Wednesday 20th March 2024, these Acts were amended to allow for exhaustive implementation of capital projects under the Acts to 30th June, 2024. The extension will expire on Sunday 30th June 2024 and many projects are yet to be completed,” Bamidele said in his lead debate.

Minority Leader, Abba Moro, supported the extension of the implementation of the capital components of the 2023 Appropriation Act and 2023 Supplementary Appropriation Act. Moro noted that there is a need for the extension of the budgets.

Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume (APC – Borno South) observed that the main reason for the extension was to allow the Federal Government to complete ongoing capital projects.

Senator Orji Kalu (APC – Abia North) said there were many uncompleted projects in different parts of the country.

He urged his colleagues to disregard criticism on the extension of the budgets.

Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central) argued that the budgets should not be extended continuously. 

He advised the lawmakers to ensure that the federal government implements the projects as contained in the approved budget.

Responding, Akpabio explained that the upper chamber will monitor the implementation of the capital component through oversight function.

“Implementation is left to the executive and oversight is left for the legislature,” Akpabio said.

Thereafter, the Bills titled: “A Bill for an Act to amend the 2023 Appropriation Act to further extend its implementation to 31st December, 2024 and for related matters, 2024 (SB. 489)” and “A Bill for an Act to amend the 2023 Supplementary Appropriation Act, to further extend its implementation to 31st December, 2024 and for related Matters, 2024 (SB. 488)” were read for first, second and third time and passed by the Senate.

Leading the debate on the two bills, House Leader Ihonvbere described them as straight forward saying they were aimed at ensuring the completion of all ongoing capital projects captured in the two documents.

But Minority Leader of the House, Kingsley Chinda, argued that while it is legally alright to extend the capital components of the budgets, it is morally wrong to have about four budgets running at the same time.

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He argued that while the minority are not against completing capital projects in the budget, Nigerians are bound to ask questions on why the government should be extending the life-span of the 2023 budget and 2023 Supplementary budget.

Speaker Abbas Tajudeen appealed to members to allow the passage of the extension of the capital components of the 2023 budget and supplementary budget to allow for procurement of items contained in it which he said are more security-related items.

Despite the plea, the majority of the lawmakers appeared not comfortable with the request for extension of the implementation of the capital components of the budgets as they kept on shouting “No, no.”

Following the disagreement, Abbas asked that the House should go into an executive session for members to iron out issues before resuming consideration of the bills.

After the closed-door session, the majority of the lawmakers supported that the two bills be approved when they were put to voice vote by Speaker Abbas.