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  • First Lady urges passage of gender parity bill as she hosts National Assembly to dinner

    First Lady urges passage of gender parity bill as she hosts National Assembly to dinner

    …we stand firm behind the President, and we will not fail women — Akpabio

    …women are the anchors of community resilience — Abbas

    First Lady Oluremi Tinubu on Friday evening hosted members of the National Assembly to a special dinner at the State House Banquet Hall, where she made a renewed and passionate appeal for the passage of the Gender Parity Bill, also known as the Reserved Seats for Women Bill, currently before the legislature.

    The event, attended by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas; Vice President Kashim Shettima; Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, who represented the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF); lawmakers from both chambers; and senior government officials, provided what the First Lady described as “a moment for dialogue and reflection” on Nigeria’s democratic future and the centrality of women’s participation.

    In her address, Senator Tinubu said the bill, seeking constitutionally guaranteed seats for women in federal and state legislatures, offered a historic opportunity for Nigeria to reposition its democracy and strengthen national development.

    “I have watched with keenness in recent months as various interest groups across our beloved nation, and even international bodies, have gathered momentum in support of this particular bill. Is this bill indeed possible to scale through? Yes—if not today, someday. But if we do this now, the 10th Assembly will go down in the history of our legislature as the set that stood for women when it counted the most”, she said.

    The First Lady urged lawmakers to seize the moment to “take care of our girls and boys,” noting that the current challenges facing millions of children, especially the girl child and vulnerable boys in the Almajiri system, underscore the need for inclusive reforms.

    “In the past few days, our nation has faced a lot of assault, especially as it concerns the future of the education of the girl child. The boys, on the other hand, through the Almajiri system are deprived of basic necessities… This deprivation opens them up to be lured into the wrong hands. This is why we must prioritise reforms that restore dignity and provide safe learning environments,” she stated.

    Senator Tinubu stressed that affirmative measures have improved governance quality in several countries, adding that Nigeria must not be left behind. 

    “Everyone, male or female, should be given the opportunity to contribute to our shared humanity,” she said.

    Responding, Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised the First Lady for what he called “an unprecedented initiative,” affirming that the National Assembly remains committed to supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in stabilising the country and advancing inclusive governance.

    “We are very determined as a National Assembly to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to overcome the current enemy action in Nigeria,” Akpabio said, referring to recent nationwide insecurity.

    He disclosed that he had written to two U.S. congressmen earlier in the day to correct what he described as “a false narrative” suggesting religious persecution in Nigeria. 

    “The bullets being sprayed have no religion written on them. Muslims are being killed, Christians are being killed… We are united behind this administration to rid this country of insidious elements”, he said.

    Akpabio also announced that the Senate had resolved to designate kidnapping as a terrorist act carrying the death penalty with no option of fine or judicial discretion.

    On the Gender Parity Bill, the Senate President pledged support, saying, “We will not want you to invite us only when women have a particular interest. Invite us always. Mommy, we are grateful.”

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    Speaker Tajudeen Abbas commended the First Lady’s “consistent commitment to the well-being of our nation,” noting that her advocacy has given the Women, Peace and Security agenda strong national visibility.

    He revealed that the House recently dedicated an entire week of plenary sessions to national security for the first time in Nigeria’s legislative history, with members expressing overwhelming support for President Tinubu’s security reforms.

    On the Reserved Seats Bill, Abbas offered a robust defence, “Women constitute almost half of our population but remain severely underrepresented in parliament. This weakens our democracy and undermines national security.”

    He explained that the proposed law seeks to guarantee one woman representative from each state in the House of Representatives, alongside special seats in the Senate and state assemblies.

    “Global experience shows that when women take part in security policy-making, countries adopt more effective strategies for prevention, community engagement and long-term peacebuilding,” he said. “If this bill succeeds, Nigeria will take a significant step toward inclusion, justice and national stability.”

    APC National Chairman Backs First Lady

    The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, also lent his full support to the First Lady’s call.

  • IBEDC: National Assembly intensifies Bill to curb energy theft

    IBEDC: National Assembly intensifies Bill to curb energy theft

    The National Assembly House Committee on Privatisation and Commercialisation has reaffirmed commitment towards strengthening legislative measures, aimed at curbing increasing menace of energy theft across Nigeria’s power sector.

    The Committee said National Assembly is currently intensifying efforts on a bill to combat energy theft through stricter penalties, enhanced enforcement, and improved protection of electricity assets.

    Speaking during an oversight visit to Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company Plc (IBEDC), the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Hamisu Ibrahim, lamented that energy theft has become a major obstacle to efficient electricity distribution in Nigeria. 

    He said  “We are working on a robust legal framework that will decisively address this menace and safeguard infrastructure investments.”

    He pledged the Committee’s support in helping electricity distribution companies (DisCos) recover huge outstanding debts owed by federal and state ministries, departments, agencies, and local governments. 

    According to him, the Committee is ready to collaborate with the DisCos to ensure that the debts are duly settled to strengthen liquidity across the power sector.

    “I want to assure the DisCos that this Committee is going to stand firm to ensure these debts are recovered.”

    IBEDC’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Francis Agoha, called for the National Assembly’s intervention on the twin challenges of energy theft and outstanding debts by federal and state institutions. 

    He emphasised that the issues have significantly constrained liquidity across the market, affecting IBEDC’s capacity to further expand and fortify its distribution infrastructure.

    Agoha briefed the Committee on IBEDC’s investments and infrastructure improvements since the 2013 privatisation, highlighting progress made in network expansion, metering, safety, and customer service delivery.

    He also outlined the company’s strategic plans for future growth, while noting the challenges faced.

    He said, “We have significantly expanded and rehabilitated our distribution network, but the challenges of energy theft, vandalism, and outstanding government debts continue to undermine our service delivery. We appreciate the National Assembly’s willingness to intervene.”

    The Committee inspected critical distribution infrastructure of IBEDC. 

    The visit formed part of the legislature’s mandate to assess the power sector performance, identify operational challenges, and compliance with regulatory standards since privatisation.

  • Stakeholders back digital economy, e-governance Bill, seek specified institutional roles

    Stakeholders back digital economy, e-governance Bill, seek specified institutional roles

    Nigeria’s digital and technology stakeholders have expressed support for the National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill 2025, which seeks to establish a legal framework that will strengthen digital governance, boost innovation, and accelerate socio-economic development.

    However, they urged the National Assembly to address potential overlaps between the proposed law and the mandates of existing agencies to prevent institutional conflict and regulatory burden.

    The submissions were made on Monday at the National Assembly, Abuja, during a Public Hearing convened by the Joint Committees of the Senate and House of Representatives on ICT, Cybersecurity, Digital and Information Technology.

    Among the groups that submitted their position was the Network of Advocates for Digital Reporting (NADIR), which commended the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, and federal lawmakers for the initiative.

    Presenting NADIR’s memorandum, its Legal Adviser, Barrister Yunus AbdulSalam (SAN), said the Bill represents a significant legislative intervention aimed at modernizing Nigeria’s digital governance ecosystem and regulating emerging technologies.

    He, however, noted that certain provisions appear to replicate functions already assigned to agencies such as NITDA, NCC, and NDPC, saying such could “trigger constitutional and institutional disputes, raise compliance costs, and discourage private sector participation and investment.”

    AbdulSalam recommended that the National Assembly adopt a “consolidation and amendment approach,” extracting the Bill’s innovative elements and integrating them into the existing Act, rather than creating new regulatory overlaps.

    Chairman, Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, said the Bill would enhance Nigeria’s digital competitiveness, strengthen e-governance service delivery, improve transparency, and boost the ease of doing business, particularly in the ICT sector.

    Salisu noted that the digital economy currently contributes about 20 percent of Nigeria’s GDP, adding that the passage of the Bill would unlock greater opportunities for job creation, innovation, and revenue growth.

    Chairman, House Committee on Digital and Information Technology, Hon. Adedeji Stanley Olajide, said the engagement reflects Nigeria’s commitment to a transparent and innovation-driven governance structure. He called the collaboration among lawmakers, regulators, and industry players “a new phase in Nigeria’s digital transformation journey.”

    Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, lauded the National Assembly for advancing the proposed framework and assured that stakeholder concerns would be considered to guarantee a balanced outcome.

    Noting that the Bill seeks to enable seamless data sharing across government institutions and foster synergy with the private sector, Tijani said its provisions on Artificial Intelligence (AI) could enhance Nigeria’s productivity and global digital competitiveness.

    Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, stressed that Nigeria must adopt a modern digital legal framework to benefit from global technological shifts. He cited AI applications in agriculture for real-time data, weather patterns, and input quality as an example of the impact on food security.

    At the hearing were officials of the Head of the Civil Service’s Office, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Galaxy Backbone, Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT), the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), and the Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), among others.

    Declaring the session open, the Deputy Senate Leader, Senator Oyelola Ashiru, who represented Senate President Godswill Akpabio, described the Bill as a bold step toward aligning Nigeria’s governance and economic policies with global digital realities.

    The National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill 2025, if passed into law, is expected to play a transformational role in Nigeria’s digital economy, comparable to the telecommunications liberalization policy of 2001.

  • National Assembly public hearing on Digital Economy, E-Governance Bill holds Monday

    National Assembly public hearing on Digital Economy, E-Governance Bill holds Monday

    The public hearing on the National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill 2025 will be held at the National Assembly on Monday, November 10. 

    The landmark legislation is designed to provide the legal backbone for Nigeria’s comprehensive digital transformation.

    The hearing will take place at the Senate Conference Room 022, according to a notice signed by Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, Chairman, Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, and Hon. Adedeji Stanley Olajide, Chairman, House Committee on Digital and Information Technology (ICT).

    If passed into law, the Bill could be as transformative for Nigeria’s digital economy as the telecommunication liberalization of 2001, setting the stage for a fully digital governance framework.

    In the key highlights, the Bill introduces several key provisions aimed at modernizing governance, increasing commerce, and fostering digital skills.

    – Legal Recognition of Digital Signatures (Section 15): Electronic signatures would be legally valid if secure, unique, and tamper-evident. This would streamline contracts and transactions, boosting Nigeria’s role in global digital trade.

    – Retention in Electronic Form (Section 4): Documents and records can now be legally kept in electronic form, enabling paperless governance, reducing costs, and promoting cloud-based archiving.

    Read Also: National Assembly approves $2.347b external borrowing plan

    – Nigeria Data Exchange (Section 46): Establishes a centralized platform for government agencies to share data, which aims to break data silos and integrate services such as tax, health, and identity management.

    – Innovation, Accountability, and Workforce Development: The legislation would mandate and strengthen strategic reforms for accountability and future readiness.

    – Ethical AI Principles (Section 63): AI development must comply with fairness, transparency, and accountability standards. It also mandates AI Risk Classification (Section 65) for proportionate regulation.

    – Mandatory Disclosure by Online Suppliers (Section 40): E-Commerce platforms must provide clear business information regarding identity, pricing, and policies, to strengthen consumer rights and trust in online trade.

    – Recognition of Non-Traditional Certifications (Section 58): Online learning and bootcamp certificates must be accepted for employment and training.

    According to a research, the bill, if passed, would reduce corruption due to transparent digital processes, enhance efficiency in governance and commerce, and align Nigeria with global norms in e-governance and data exchange.

  • NILDS trains 700 National Assembly staff

    NILDS trains 700 National Assembly staff

    The National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) has commenced the training of 700 staff as part of a major capacity-building drive to strengthen the professionalism and effectiveness of National Assembly staff.

    Speaking at the opening of a three-day workshop in Abuja, NILDS Director-General Professor Abubakar Sulaiman said effective legislative work depends not only on elected lawmakers but equally on a competent and principled bureaucratic workforce.

    “The success of any legislature depends not solely on the elected representatives, but equally on the efficiency, competence, and professionalism of the bureaucratic structure that supports them,” Sulaiman said.

    He described the training series, which runs from October to December 2025, as a practical programme that blends conceptual frameworks with comparative best practice to improve performance across the Assembly.

    The NILDS chief urged participants to engage actively with facilitators,

    a mix of scholars and practitioners, and to return to their posts as “ambassadors of excellence” who drive legislative quality and better governance for Nigerians.

    He said the training modules would cover lawmaking and legislative drafting, official reporting, library and information management, financial management, procurement, audit and compliance, pensions, research and publication, and office management.

    He said that NILDS expects more than 700 National Assembly staff from diverse departments to participate over the October–December cycle.

     Sulaiman commended Senate President Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio and Speaker Abbas Tajudeen for their support of the Institute’s programmes, saying their leadership has been pivotal in prioritising institutional capacity development.

    Representing the Clerk to the National Assembly, Barrister Kamoru Ogunlana, Deputy Clerk Bashir Yero urged participants to take the training seriously and to uphold integrity in public service.

    “Capacity without character threatens institutional integrity,” Yero warned, calling on staff to combine professional competence with the highest ethical standards in the discharge of their duties.

    Ogunlana praised the partnership with NILDS, saying the collaboration demonstrates a shared commitment to building a modern, efficient and accountable legislative bureaucracy.

    His endorsement, delivered through the Deputy Clerk, underscored the National Assembly leadership’s backing for sustained staff development and institutional renewal.

  • National Assembly approves $2.347b external borrowing plan

    National Assembly approves $2.347b external borrowing plan

    • $500m debut sovereign Sukuk for global market

    The National Assembly yesterday approved President Bola Tinubu’s request to implement the new external borrowing plan contained in the 2025 Appropriation Act.

    The borrowing plan included external borrowings of up to $2.347 billion. The net proceeds of the issuances would be used partly to refinance maturing Eurobonds.

    Also, both the Senate and House of Representatives approved a debut sovereign Sukuk of some $500 million for the international capital market. The maiden external Sukuk would be used to fund infrastructural projects.

    The resolutions of the Upper and Lower Chambers followed the adoption of various reports by their committees. The Senate approval was sequel to adoption of the report of its Committee on Local and Foreign Debts, presented by its Chairman, Senator Aliyu Wamakko.

    The House of Representatives approved the report of its Committee on Loans and Debt  as presented in plenary by the committee’s chairman, Hassan Nalaraba.

    The request was first read on the floor of the Senate on October 8, 2025 seeking for new external borrowing and debt.

    Commenting on the report, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, Senator Mohammed Sani Musa urged his colleagues to support the approval as it has been captured in the fiscal document of the federal government.

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    “It is very needful that we give approval to this request so that the 2025 appropriation will be given the necessary funding,” Musa said.

    Chairman of the Senate Committee on Banking, Adetokunbo Abiru, said there’s nothing new in the request other than to ensure compliance with the revenue framework.

    “This is more of a compliance issue because the 2025 Appropriation Act as it is has already captured it as part of the deficit financing.

    “The second request is a refinancing to ensure that the country doesn’t default in the Eurobond servicing,” Abiru said.

    Senator Adams Oshiomhole recalled that the chamber had previously agreed that there’s nothing wrong with borrowing if it is for addressing problems like unemployment and decaying infrastructure.

    In a breakdown, the House of Representatives approved the implementation of the new external borrowing of N1.84 trillion, equivalent to $1.229 billion at the budget exchange rate of $1 for N1, 500 as provided as new external borrowing in the 2025 Appropriation Act, to part-finance the budget deficit of N9.276 trillion.

    Lawmakers also approved the request to refinance the 7.625 per cent $1.118 billion Eurobonds maturing on November 21, 2025.

    The government may adopt any suitable means to raise the funds including issuance of eurobonds, loan syndications, bridge finance facility from bookrunners and direct borrowing from international financial institutions.

    Also approved is the request to issue a stand-alone debut Sovereign Sukuk of up to USD500M in the ICM with or without credit enhancement (Guarantee).

    The President had, in a letter read at plenary on the 7th of October sought the approval of the House to implement the new external borrowing planning in the 2025 appropriation act, to refinance maturing eurobond and issue a debut sovereign sukuk in the international market.

    The President’s letter dated 22nd September, 2025 was titled “request for the resolution of the National Assembly to implement new extern borrowing in the 2025 appropriation act, refinance maturing Euro bonds and issue debt sovereign sukuk in the international capital market.”

    President Tinubu said the purpose of the letter is to seek a resolution of the House pursuant to the provisions of sections 21(1) and 27(1) of the Debt Management Office (Establishment, Etc.) Act, 2003 to implement the New External Borrowing of ₦1,843,669,786,987.16 (equivalent of USD1,229,113,000.00 at the budget exchange rate of USD1.00/N1,500.00) in the 2025 Appropriation Act for the part-financing of the Budget Deficit.

    He is also seeking a resolution to refinance the USD1,118,352,000.00 Eurobonds (7.625% USD1.118BN NOV 2025) maturing on November 21, 2025; access aggregate external capital of USD2,347,465,000.00 (USD1.229bn and USD1.118bn).

    The facility is to be accessed through any of the following channels in the International Capital Market (ICM): Issuance of Eurobonds, Loan Syndications, Bridge Finance Facility from Bookrunners and Direct Borrowing from International Financial Institutions.

    Also, the request is also for a resolution to issue a stand-alone debut Sovereign Sukuk of up to USD500m in the ICM with or without credit enhancement (Guarantee).

    He said “the House of Representatives may wish to note that 2025 Appropriation Act provides for N9,276,348,934,935.79 as New Borrowings to part-finance the 2025 Budget Deficit, of which ₦1,843,669,786,987.16 (equivalent of about USD1,229,113,000.00 at the Budget Exchange Rate of USD1.00/N1,500.00) is specified as New External Borrowing.

    “The House of Representatives is kindly invited to issue its Resolution allowing the Government to raise the amount through any of the following options: Issuance of Eurobonds, Bridge Finance Facility from Bookrunners, Loan Syndication and Direct Borrowing from International Financial Institutions.

    On refinancing of maturing Eurobonds of USD1.118 billion, he said “the House of Representatives may wish to note that Eurobonds of USD1,118,352,000.00 (7.625% US$1.118BN NOV 2025) issued in the ICM on November 21, 2018, with an original tenor of 7 years, will mature on November 21, 2025.

    “The plan is to refinance the maturing Eurobonds through issuance of Eurobonds, Bridge Finance Facility from Bookrunners, Loan Syndication, or Direct Borrowing from International Financial Institutions, if necessary to avoid default.

    “This is a standard practice in debt capital markets, including the ICM. The proposal is for the House of Representatives to issue its Resolution authorising the FGN to refinance the Eurobonds, accordingly.”

    He stressed that “based on the presentations in Paragraphs 2 and 3, the aggregate amount proposed to be raised in the ICM either through Issuance of Eurobonds, Bridge Finance Facility from Bookrunners, Loan Syndication and Direct Borrowing from International Financial Institutions or combination of the options for which Resolution of the House of Representatives is being sought is USD2,347,465,000.00.

    “Whilst exploring all the options, the plan is to focus on the Issuance of Eurobonds, and we believe that Nigeria, being a regular issuer of Eurobonds in the ICM could raise the proposed amount, subject to market conditions.

    “The House of Representatives may wish to note that because Eurobonds Issuance is a market-based transaction, the terms and conditions can only be determined at the time of the transactions, and they will be subject to prevailing market conditions.

    “The Federal Ministry of Finance (FMF) and the Debt Management Office (DMO) will work with the Transaction Advisers to secure the most favourable terms and conditions.

    “Meanwhile, it is expected that the pricing of the new Eurobonds will reflect the Yields on Nigeria’s Eurobonds trading in the ICM at the time of Issuance, while Tenors will be guided by investors’ preferences, price and the DMO’s liability management strategy.

    On the issuance of a stand alone 500 million dollars debut sovereign sukuk, the President said “the House of Representatives is invited to issue its Resolution authorising the Issuance of a stand-alone debut Sovereign Sukuk of up to USD500m in the ICM

    He said “the FGN has recorded considerable success in the Issuance of Sukuk in the domestic capital market for the development of critical infrastructure projects across the country. Between September 2017 and May 2025, the DMO has raised N1,392.557 trillion through Sukuk in the domestic capital market to fund critical road infrastructure projects.

    “There is the need to pool resources from external sources to complement domestic issuance to help bridge infrastructure funding gaps; and,

    “It is imperative to open new sources of funding for the FGN, and thereby diversify investor base, as well as deepen the FGN Securities market.

    “The proposal is for the House of Representatives to approve the issuance of a stand-alone debut Sovereign Sukuk with or without credit enhancement (Guarantee) from the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC), a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group.

    *The Policy Premium for the Guarantee proposed by ICIEC is 3.5% of Issue Amount per annum. If the credit enhancement from ICIEC is taken for the proposed Sukuk Issuance, 25% of the Issue Proceeds may be used to repay relatively more expensive debt obligations of the FGN, and the balance will be used to finance the development of pre-identified infrastructure projects”.

    President Tinubu also said that “based on the foregoing, I respectfully request the House of Representatives to pass a resolution to raise external capital in the sum of USD2,347,465,000.00 comprised of New External Borrowing in the 2025 Appropriation Act (USD1,229,113,000.00) and refinancing of maturing Eurobonds (USD1,118,352,000.00), through any of the following option(s): Issuance of Eurobonds, Bridge Finance Facility from Bookrunners, Loan Syndication and Direct Borrowing from International Financial Institutions.

    “To issue a debut stand-alone Sovereign Sukuk of up to USD500 million, with or without credit enhancement from the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit”.

  • National Assembly committed to strengthening democracy through education, say Akpabio, Abbas

    National Assembly committed to strengthening democracy through education, say Akpabio, Abbas

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas have reaffirmed the commitment of the National Assembly to strengthening democracy through education, research, and institutional development.

    The National Assembly leaders spoke at the ninth convocation of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS).

    They underscored the role of education, particularly legislative and democratic studies, in fostering accountable governance, improving public service delivery, and sustaining democratic development in Nigeria.

    Akpabio, who is the Chairman of the Governing Board of the institute, noted that it was imperative to strengthen the nation’s legal frameworks and oversight mechanisms to ensure effective governance and equitable distribution of public resources.

    He promised that the National Assembly would continue to deploy its legislative and oversight instruments to enhance transparency, revenue generation, and service delivery.

    Akpabio said: “As members of the 10th Senate, we will continue to strengthen existing legal frameworks and enhance our oversight of public institutions to ensure they deliver effective public service.

    “Our efforts have already contributed to increased revenue accruing to the Consolidated Revenue Fund, leading to higher allocations to the states and the federal government.”

    The Senate President urged state legislatures to complement the efforts of the National Assembly by holding governors accountable to ensure the prudent and equitable use of the additional funds now available to subnational governments.

    Abbas lauded the partnership between NILDS and the University of Benin (UNIBEN) for their sustained collaboration in promoting academic excellence in legislative studies.

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    The Speaker, who was represented by the House Leader, Prof. Julius Ihonvnere, said the NILDS/UNIBEN programmes has produced professionals who are better equipped to confront Nigeria’s governance and institutional challenges.

    He expressed delight about the reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, saying key economic indicators were beginning to improve.

    Abbas said: “Though we may have different experiences, what is clear is that our economy is on a better growth trajectory today than it would have been under a business-as-usual scenario.”

    The Speaker noted that inflation had dropped below 20 per cent, while the value of the naira was appreciating against major currencies.

    He attributed these developments to the government’s fiscal and tax reforms.

    “The 10th House of Representatives is committed to reforming the budget process to ensure strict adherence to timelines for preparation, enactment, implementation, and oversight,” Abbas stated.

    The NILDS Director-General, Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman, said the Institute’s academic programmes were designed to bridge knowledge and capacity gaps in democratic institutions across the country.

    He said the NILDS/UNIBEN partnership continued to produce graduates with the skills necessary to strengthen governance, policy-making, and legislative practices.

    Sulaiman said a total of 79 students graduated from various programmes, including 19 from the Higher National Diploma (HND) courses, nine from Postgraduate Diploma (PGD)  programmes, and 51 from Master’s degree programmes in Legislative and Democratic Studies.

    The NILDS director general urged the Federal and state governments to prioritise the funding of the education sector in the 2026 fiscal year.

    He stressed that inadequate funding would continue to undermine the quality of human capital development across the country.

    “The funding of higher institutions has a direct relationship with human capacity development. Low funding translates to poor-quality graduates,” Sulaiman said.

    “I also urge the government to find a lasting solution to the incessant ASUU strikes that have bedeviled and distorted our university system.”

    The NILDS director general hailed the UNIBEN management and workers, led by its Vice Chancellor Prof. Edoba Bright Omoregie (SAN), and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) for their partnership and accreditation support, which have helped the institute to sustain high academic standards.

    Sulaiman announced that admissions for the 2025/2026 academic session had begun.

    The director general said the institute had been receiving applications for its programmes, such as Master’s degrees in Elections and Party Politics, Legislative Studies, Parliamentary Administration, and Constitutional Law and Development.

    The event enabled stakeholders to reflect on the role of legislative institutions in consolidating Nigeria’s democracy.

    Speakers agreed that education and capacity building were key to improving governance outcomes and strengthening public confidence in democratic institutions.

  • National Assembly’s 10 year passport ban wrong

    National Assembly’s 10 year passport ban wrong

    SIR: The Senate is considering a new law that would stop Nigerians convicted of crimes abroad from getting a passport for 10 years or even withdrawing such passport for 10 years after conviction. The sponsor of the bill says it is meant to protect Nigeria’s image and discourage Nigerians from committing crimes in other countries. This sound like a patriotic and commendable idea, but when you look closer, it raises serious legal problems. It goes against the constitution and violates international law.

    Section 41 of the constitution protects citizens from arbitrary restrictions such as the one envisaged by the National Assembly. It states that no citizen shall be refused entry into or exit from Nigeria. The right to move freely is part of what it means to be a citizen, and the National Assembly is trivialising such.  If someone has been convicted and deported from another country, that person has already been punished. Denying them a passport for 10 years means stopping them from traveling even for lawful reasons. It means they cannot leave the country to work, do business, seek medical care, or visit family. That is a direct violation of a constitutional right. The section only allows restriction of rights if it is reasonable and justifiable in a democratic society. This proposed restriction is neither reasonable nor justifiable. The particular exceptions in section 41 does not allow for punishment or restriction of movement for offences not committed within the shores of Nigeria. 

    There is also the international legal principle of double punishment. Section 36(9) of the constitution says no one shall be tried or punished twice for the same offence. When someone commits a crime abroad, that country’s legal system tries them and, if found guilty, punishes them. Once they serve their sentence, the punishment is complete. If Nigeria then adds another punishment, a ten-year passport ban, it means punishing the person again for the same act. That violates the principle of double jeopardy. Beyond legality, it is also morally wrong.

    The bill is also deeply concerning. What kinds of crimes will attract the ban. What happens to those who were unfairly convicted due to poor legal representation, racial bias, or weak evidence? Many Nigerians abroad face these problems. Some plead guilty just to avoid long trials in countries where they do not understand the system. If such people return home and are banned from getting passports, it would be an injustice on top of an injustice.

    The real problem with Nigeria’s image abroad has less to do with ordinary citizens and more to do with bad governance at home and corruption. If the Senate is truly concerned about Nigeria’s reputation, there are better ways to address the problem. Nigerian embassies can be strengthened to provide legal and consular support for citizens abroad, especially those facing unfair treatment. Diplomatic engagement can also help ensure Nigerians are treated fairly in other countries. To strengthen Nigeria’s reputation abroad, real focus should go into tightening loopholes that allow embezzlement of public fund and inflation of budgets, and strengthen the judiciary to be truly independent.  These are the real steps that improve a country’s image and even discourage Nigerians from running away from their fatherland.

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    A law like this also creates a dangerous opening for abuse. In a system where politics often influences legal decisions, it could be used to punish political opponents or critics who live abroad. A false conviction or even an accusation could be used to block someone’s passport. Without strong checks and clear procedures, the law becomes a weapon instead of a fair rule.

    The Senate should remember that the constitution protects all Nigerians, including those who have made mistakes. The duty of government is not only to punish wrongdoing but also to protect rights. Laws should promote justice, not revenge. A ten-year passport ban will not make Nigeria look better. It will make it look harsh and unjust.

    Nigeria should not become a country that denies its citizens a second chance. The right to travel, to move, and to start again after a mistake is part of human dignity. Instead of passing laws that isolate citizens, lawmakers should focus on how to build a fairer, more caring country. That is how to protect Nigeria’s image—by being just at home and compassionate to its citizens abroad. Because in the end, the true image of a nation is not in the crimes of a few people but in how it treats its own.

    • Opatola Victor Esq, Abuja.
  • ‘Why National Assembly can’t legislate on lottery’

    ‘Why National Assembly can’t legislate on lottery’

    • Coalition for Good Governance faults Senate’s work on new lottery Bill

    A group, the Coalition for Good Governance (CGG), yesterday said the National Assembly cannot legislate on lottery beyond the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as ruled by the Supreme Court.

    The CCG said it smacked of legislative rascality, recklessness, provocation, and lawlessness for the Senate to give concurrence to the Bill on the matter passed by the House of Representatives.

    Its Convener, Nelson Ekujumi, told reporters in Lagos that the passage of the Bill constituted a threat to national security and the constitution.

    The activist described the passage of the Bill as an abuse of legislative privileges by the National Assembly.

    Quoting the judgment of the apex court, Ekujumi said: “Lottery and gaming activities, while generating revenue, does not fall within the core category of economic activities envisaged by the Constitution under Section 16 (4)(b) and cannot be regulated by the provisions of an Act of the National Assembly.”

    He added: “Consequently, the legislative authority of each State House of Assembly encompasses, among other matters, the power to regulate activities, such as lotteries and other forms of gaming. I, therefore, hold that the National Assembly lacks the competence to enact the National Lottery Act 2005, as “lottery” is not included in either the Exclusive or Concurrent Legislative Lists in the Second Schedule of the Nigerian Constitution. As such, the subject matter lies entirely outside the legislative competence of the National Assembly. In the circumstances, the National Lottery Act, 2005 is, therefore, hereby declared unconstitutional, having been enacted ultra vires the legislative authority of the National Assembly”.

    Ekujumi recalled that the Supreme Court, on November 22, 2024, had nullified the National Lottery Act 2005, enacted by the National Assembly.

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    The CCG convener averred that the apex court’s judgment was on the suit filed in 2008 by Lagos and other states challenging the Federal Government’s powers to regulate lottery and gaming activities throughout Nigeria.

    He said: “The states sought, amongst others, a declaration of the court that the regulation of lottery activities does not fall within the remit of the National Assembly, under Part I of the Second Schedule of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, and is consequently not empowered to enact the National Lottery Act.

    “The states, as plaintiff(s), also sought a declaration that the National Assembly lacks the power to legally and constitutionally make any law to regulate and control the operation of lottery in Nigeria.

    “The Supreme Court, in a unanimous judgment consisting of seven justices, held that the National Assembly lacked the powers to legislate on issues relating to lottery in respect of all states of the federation, except the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

    “The court ruled that such powers only reside with the state Houses of Assembly, which possess exclusive jurisdiction over the lottery.”

    Ekujumi added: “Once the Supreme Court has  decided on a subject, particularly under the Constitution of Nigeria, it becomes final and binding on all persons and authorities in the Federal Republic of Nigeria — including the Executive and the Legislature.”

  • National Assembly lacks power to regulate lottery, says Lagos A-G

    National Assembly lacks power to regulate lottery, says Lagos A-G

    The Lagos State government has warned the National Assembly against proceeding with its proposed Central Gaming Bill.

    The state described the Bill as a direct violation of the nation’s Constitution and a subsisting judgement of the Supreme Court.

    The state’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), gave the warning while addressing reporters yesterday in Lagos.

    Pedro described the proposed Central Gaming Bill, as a “voyage of unconstitutionality” and a direct violation of a subsisting Supreme Court judgment that vests control of lotteries, gaming, and betting exclusively in the states”.

    The commissioner insisted that the Bill, now before the Senate after its passage by the House of Representatives, amounts to legislative overreach and a potential trigger for constitutional crisis.

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    He explained that the Bill, which seeks to regulate all forms of online and remote gaming across the country, directly contradicts a Supreme Court judgement delivered on October 13, 2024, in a suit filed by Lagos and 22 other states against the Attorney-General of the Federation.

    According to him, the apex court has ruled unequivocally that gaming, lotteries and betting are residual matters within the exclusive jurisdiction of state governments, except in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    Pedro said: “The Supreme Court, our apex court, has declared that the power to regulate gaming, betting and lotteries belongs solely to the states. The National Assembly lacks the competence to legislate on these matters for the entire country.”

    The commissioner averred that the court also granted a perpetual injunction restraining the Federal Government and its agencies from enforcing the National Lottery Act or any similar legislation within the territory of any state.

    Pedro warned that the proposed Bill, if passed, would not only defy this ruling but also undermine the foundation of Nigeria’s federal structure.

    “Any attempt to legislate again on the same subject amounts to defiance of the Supreme Court, a violation of the Constitution and an invitation to constitutional chaos,” he said.

    Pedro also faulted claims by some lawmakers that online or remote gaming falls under federal jurisdiction because of its cross-border nature.

    He said: “Online does not mean federal. If online activity automatically becomes federal, then the United Nations should regulate it globally. The use of technology does not alter the legal character of gaming, which remains a state matter whether done physically or virtually.”

    The commissioner cautioned that the proposed Central Gaming Bill could open the floodgates of gambling activities even in states where cultural or religious values prohibit such practices.

    “If the Bill becomes law, it will allow operators to set up gaming businesses across all states, including those where gambling is forbidden by religion or tradition.

    “This could create social tension and conflict,” he warned.

    Pedro described the National Assembly’s move as inconsistent with its current nationwide consultation efforts aimed at devolving more powers to subnational governments.

    “It will be a contradiction of spirit and purpose for the same National Assembly that is canvassing devolution of powers to now attempt to reclaim powers already affirmed by the Supreme Court to belong to the states,” he said.

    The attorney general reaffirmed Lagos State’s commitment, alongside 22 other states, to resist any legislative or executive action that undermines the integrity of the Supreme Court and the autonomy of state governments.

    “This is not about Lagos State alone. It is about Nigeria, about protecting the integrity of the Supreme Court and preserving the federal structure as guaranteed by the Constitution,” he said.

    The commissioner urged the National Assembly to withdraw the proposed Central Gaming Bill in the interest of constitutional order and national stability.

    He said: “The rule of law is the soul of democracy. Our democracy will remain strong only if we respect the Constitution and the finality of Supreme Court decisions.”