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FG wades in National Assembly staff union crisis

The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Labour and Employment, has intervened in the intra-union crises rocking the Parliamentary Staff of Nigeria (PASAN), National Assembly Chapter, with a view to resolving the impasse.

The union has been polarised following the vote of no confidence on its chairman, Comrade Sunday Sabiyi, over alleged misconduct by concerned staff of the association.

All efforts made by the management and the National Secretariat of the Union to resolve the crisis had proved abortive with the Concerned Staff, a group within the association demanding that a congress be called by the executive to render annual returns to members in line with its constitution.

However, the Federal Ministry Labour and Employment through the Registrar of Trade Unions has now given the executive an ultimatum to hold the congress before March 31st as a step towards resolving the dispute.

The Registrar of Trade Unions, Mr Olebe Alex, in a letter with reference number: FMLE/TU/136/111/148 and dated 24th March, 2025, directed the Chairman of the Union, to hold the Congress.

The letter titled: Intra-Union crisis in the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN) National Assembly Chapter, a copy which was sighted by The Nation in Abuja, reads in part: “Following the resolution of the last meeting which held on 12th March, 2025 in the office of the Registrar of Trade Unions with the National President of PASAN, some members of the National Assembly chapter executives and some Concerned Members of the Union in attendance and the resolution reached thereat, that PASAN National Assembly Chapter should convene a congress on or before the 31st day of March 2025 to help quell the lingering crisis that have bedeviled the chapter, you are hereby requested to convene the National Assembly Chapter Congress on or before the 31st day of March 2025.

“Further to that, take note that the office of the Registrar of Trade Unions should be invited to observe the proceedings at the congress.”

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A member of the union, who spoke in confidence on the matter said: “The PASAN Constitution requires every chapter to hold a general Congress quarterly, but it seems this hasn’t been happening, leading to a vote of no confidence in the Executive Officers.

“The Trade Unions’ Registrar is trying to resolve the crisis, but the Executive Officers appear uninterested in making peace.

“The core issue is the Executive Officers’ failure to represent and protect their members’ interests, particularly regarding remuneration, allowances, and benefits from the National Assembly Management.

“With the Registrar’s directive to call a Congress being ignored, all eyes are now on the Registrar’s office to see how they’ll handle this refusal.”

March 28, 2025
Painful but unavoidable

•It is up to the warring parties, not the president, for normalcy to return to Rivers State

Once the National Assembly approves today the proclamation made on Tuesday by the President, Rivers State, one of Nigeria’s most consequential domains, will be in a state of emergency for six months. It has generated controversy. At no time in the history of this republic or any other republic have actions like this never generated furore of one kind or another.

But this day has been coming for over a year. The suspended governor of the state, Siminalayi Fubara, locked horns with his predecessor and mentor, Nyesom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Fubara was accused of betraying the party power arrangement in the state by prying himself off his political group in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

It was simmering on the level of rhetoric, tame and guarded, until the dam broke open when the state House of Assembly building was bombed to rubbles. After that, in a dramatic episode, the governor mounted a stage around the state capital to address his enemies and rouse his followers in a show of proprietary rage.

While his fight with the FCT minister was boiling over, the concrete manifestation of his foes was the state house of assembly where 27 members pitched their camp with Wike, and only four sided with the governor. Cooperation between the executive branch and the legislative branch had not only turned sour, it engendered a paralysis.

The house would not accept his budget, and it would not accept his appointments to constitute his cabinet. He too would not extend to lawmakers their perquisites of office. Governor Fubara resorted to self-help. He was pushed to a helpless situation, and it reflected his inability to execute a charm offensive and bring the standoff to an end.

Bombing the house became only the beginning of his impunity. He passed a budget, in an absurd mockery of executive performance, with only four members. That was a breach of the constitution. He did the same with his appointments.

The die was cast, and quite a few persons, including Rivers State and Niger Delta elders, started to pitch their camps with him, including members of the influential Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) led by the late Edwin Clark. A flurry of court cases gave the impression of a hijacked local judiciary, as the governor sought injunctions and verdicts to cement his impunity.

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Meanwhile, the president intervened, and made the stakeholders on both sides to sign a truce for peace. But it was just a piece of paper. Both sides stoked the rage, and the state suffered. Governor Fubara proceeded to conduct a local government election in defiance of court order.

Fubara fattened in stubbornness by the month, and it became obvious to discerning observers that both sides were ossifying their positions.

But the turning point came with the verdict of the Supreme Court. The top court ruled that there has not been legitimate governance in the state under Fubara. It also ruled that the 27 members of the house of assembly had not defected. It also condemned the defiance of court order to conduct the local government polls. Consequently, the Supreme Court ordered a stay in monetary allocations to the state as well as the local government areas.

This gave the lawmakers a vigour of self-esteem in the eyes of the law. It was an opportunity for both sides to chart a common path but walked a rut. The governor had asserted his willingness to obey the orders of the apex court. He was given 48 hours to present his budget. He wrote a letter to the house, but the house had not replied him when he showed up at their gate and he and his team were barred entry. That was an act of ill-grace, on both sides.

If he wrote the house a letter, he had no right to impose a time of hearing. He should have met them behind the klieg lights and tried to work out an affable start with them. The house, on its part, after giving a deadline, ought to have treated Fubara’s coming with respect and dignity.

It was obvious that it was the lawmakers’ time for vengeance. They sent him a notice of misconduct, a legislative query. Fubara’s team denied receiving it. It was no longer about the law but about power. It was the beginning of the lawmakers’ march to impeachment.

The next day, the nation’s jugular of wealth was compromised as pipelines became targets. The issue of fingering our source of wealth for attack has been in the conversation for weeks. Wike had dared the Ijaws supporting the governor – because they were kinsmen – to blow up the pipelines. He noted that they did not possess the monopoly of violence.

A few days earlier, Governor Fubara had promised some youths that they would soon get instructions, and it was widely interpreted as a go-ahead for plunder. So, when the Trans Niger Pipeline was blown up in the region, it was perceived as the governor’s show of aversion to moves to oust him from office.

Ousting him from office would not have been pretty. It would have involved more standoffs and stalemates as we witnessed with the governor’s denial of having received the notice of misconduct.

It was then clear to all that the new turn of events was going to normalise violence and inevitable bloodsheds if not arrested. Both sides were holding their grounds, governance had been on holidays and the people merely watched a power game that promised no savoury end.

That state of affairs compelled the president to declare a state of emergency in the state. Some have argued that the governor and legislature should have been retained. They cited the president’s position on the 2013 state of emergency slammed on three northeast states. But that is a wrong equivalence. The state of emergency on Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states were to preserve the democratic structures against a rampaging insurgency. The governors did not pick up fight with any political group or institution. So, it made no sense to dismantle the political structure of elected officials.

In Rivers State, the political players were the real fountains of discord. If the president declared a state of emergency, it would be impotent if the players still occupied their positions and leveraged them to throw foxes among the country’s pigeons. They would have the resources to foment violence.

Secondly, the constitution did not say a state of emergency should entail the dismantling of elected structures. It did not say they could not be suspended. It gives latitude to the president since the ultimate idea is to restore peace and normalcy. The lawmakers drafted section 305 of the 1999 constitution with a view to the wisdom and decency of the president to do the right. A state of emergency, by definition, fails if it retains any structure, democratic or not, that may nullify the purpose of its imposition by undermining tranquility, law and order.

The appointment of a former naval chief, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, is the beginning, hopefully, of a turn for peace. Those who question the appointment show bias against a man who has served this country. If he is a former military man, so were elected officers like Muhammadu Buhari, Olusegun Obasanjo, David Mark, etc. He is a civilian and has the right like anyone to serve this country.

Six months is a short time. We hope that it is not too short for sane heads to prevail. We do not expect the state of emergency to be extended. But it is not in the hands of the president but in the political society of Rivers State.

March 20, 2025
Massive protest rocks Abuja over Benue judiciary crisis

Thousands of protesters, led by the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria, marched on major roads leading to the National Assembly and Supreme Court on Monday to voice their opposition to the ongoing judicial crisis in Benue State.

The protesters called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take swift action to resolve the crisis and ensure justice is served. They also urged the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, to urgently intervene and remove corrupt judges from the judiciary.

The demonstration, which saw participation from civil society organizations, human rights groups, and concerned citizens, featured placards and banners condemning the alleged manipulation of the Benue State Local Government Election Tribunal by politicians.

Speaking to the press during the protest, the Chief Convener of the coalition, Comrade Igwe Ude-Umanta, accused Justice Maurice Ikpambese, the Chief Judge of Benue State, of unlawfully granting a waiver to petitioners of the Local Government Election Tribunal. This action was said to violate the constitutional requirement for a security deposit.

The group also alleged that relocating the tribunal to Abuja by the State Chief Judge was in direct violation of Benue State’s electoral laws.

They expressed disappointment over the National Judicial Council’s (NJC) failure to take action against Ikpambese despite formal petitions regarding his judicial misconduct in the state.

According to Ude-Umanta, “The judiciary is the bedrock of any democracy, but today, it has become more politicised than registered political parties.

“How can a Chief Judge flagrantly abuse his office and the NJC remains silent?”

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The coalition also frowned at the order of Justice M.M. Adamu of the FCT High Court compelling the Benue State Local Government Election Tribunal to sit in Abuja, despite a previous court order restraining the tribunal from sitting outside Benue State.

The coalition then urged Justice Kekere-Ekun to act swiftly in purging corrupt elements from the judiciary.

It also called on President Tinubu to intervene, warning that the Benue judiciary crisis could undermine public trust in the legal system.

The protesters alleged threats of police intimidation but commended the FCT Commissioner of Police for ensuring orderliness.

Ude-Umanta vowed that the coalition will relent adding that they will continue their agitation until justice is restored.

March 17, 2025
Group hails INEC, National Assembly for action on bye election

The Anambra South Concerned Citizens, led by Ikechukwu Nwosu, has hailed the National Assembly and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for addressing the political void created by the untimely demise of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.

Ubah, a highly respected and influential representative of Anambra South Senatorial Zone, died July 27, 2024, leaving a significant gap in the legislative representation of the zone.

For over 180 days, the people of Anambra South were left without a voice in the Senate, a situation that caused deep concern and uncertainty among constituents, stakeholders, and political analysts.

In a bold move to address the growing unease, the Anambra South Concerned Citizens took a decisive action by formally petitioning INEC and the National Assembly.

They called for immediate measures to organize a by-election that would ensure the continuation of legislative advocacy and governance for the people of the senatorial district.

Their plea was met with positive and proactive engagement by the relevant authorities, culminating in the much-anticipated approval of a bye-election.

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Nwosu hailed the promptness and commitment demonstrated by the federal institutions.

He said: “This marks a turning point in our democratic journey. For over 180 days, the people of Anambra South have yearned for a voice in the Senate, and today, we celebrate a government that listens and acts.

The swift response by the National Assembly and INEC shows that our democracy is alive and well. We extend our deepest gratitude for their dedication to upholding the rights of the people.”

Nwosu hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to democratic principles and good governance, emphasizing that his leadership has been instrumental in ensuring due process is followed.

He also lauded the Senate President, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, for his responsiveness and statesmanship in expediting the legislative processes that facilitated the bye-election.

March 14, 2025
How N/Assembly can assist melting industry, by lawmaker

The National Assembly should support the melting industry in its bid to convert waste to wealth, generate revenue and create jobs, House of Representatives member Terseer Ugbor has said.

Ugbor, vice chairman of House Committee on Environment, described auto-recyling as a vibrant business, adding that it can generate N60 billion monthly.

He said the National Assembly would not compromise environmental sustainability and commitment to measures aimed at addressing climate change.

The federal legislator observed that many vehicles reach their end-of-life due to poor maintenance, old age and traffic accidents.

He said the legal framework should be strengthened to enable the sector survive anf achieve its goals.

Ugbor said automotive recycling can lead to the recovery and conversionn of waste to wealth, if tge sector is supported by the government and the private sector.

He spoke on the necessity for legislative backing for the promising sector in Lagos where the Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Senator John Enoh, launched the ‘End-Of-Life’ Vehicle Regulation.

At the stakeholders’ engagement and ministerial press conference on the approved ‘End-Of-Life Vehicle Regulation (ELV), experts said the country can make N600 billion annually from converting the old, damaged and unserviceable vehicles to raw materials and other forms of wealth.

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The Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Joseph Oluwemimo Osanipin, said the melting industry is evolving, adding that it must adapt to technological development.

He said vehicle users should be conscious of the serviceable lifespans of vehiccles, adding that batteries of electric vehicles also have expiring dates.

The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, said when overused vehicles are imporperly discarded due to wear and tear and damage, they pose severe health issues.

The minister, who was represented by Benedict Nkechi, said “so many organ destructive diseases are traced to the improper disposal of the end of life vehicles.”

Enoh, who also presented the regulatory Information Handbook, said:”The potentials are huge and enormous,” urging stakeholders to brave up for thr challenge of implementation.

He said the regulation became necessary in view of the fact that 500,000 of the 600,000 imported vehicles have limited lifespans because they are second hand vehicles.

He praised Osanipin for his tireless work and leadership, assuring that government would support the reassessment of wastes for the purpose of converting them into wealth.

A paper titiled: “Aprograme to Recycle End-Of-Life Vehicle in Nigeria for Environmental and Economic Sustainability of the Automobile Sector was delivered by Dr. Fyneray Mbata.

Also, Mr. Idowu Oresanya spoke on “Implementing an Environmental Imapct Certificate (EIC) for all registered vehicles in Nigeria.”

Another paper titled:” Transforming Nigeria’s Informal Automotive scrap metal industry” was delivered by Dr. Chimere May.

Dr. Kemjika Ajoku spoke on “Financing Options for ELV Pilot Project.”

Mbata said recycling would lead to job creation, increased revenue, and guarantee other environmental, economic, health and social benefits.

Dr. May said occupational health and safety measures are required in the melting industry.

Ajoku said recycling can be financed through government grants, public/private partnership, joint ventures and financial intermediaries.

He lamented that while imported vehicles has the age limit of five years in ECOWAS countries, there is no compliance.

Osanipin said the launching of the regulations marked a significant milestone in the collective journey towards a sustainable and environmentally responsible automotive sector.

He described the ELV Regulation as a pivotal mechanism designed to address the challenges posed by end-of-life vehicles and to unlock the immense potential within the automotive waste.

He said: “Nigeria’s automotive landscape is rapidly evolving. Our nation boasts a large and growing vehicle population, a testament to our economic vibrancy and the increasing mobility needs of our people. However, this growth also brings forth the critical issue of managing end-of-life vehicles.

“With millions of vehicles on our roads, and a significant portion of them reaching their end-of-life, we are faced with both a challenge and a tremendous opportunity. This regulation is our strategic response to transform this challenge into a sustainable economic and environmental advantage.

“The NADDC, and some critical stakeholders have been at the forefront of this initiative. We recognize the urgent need to establish a framework that ensures the proper management of ELVs, promotes recycling, and safeguards our environment.”

He added: “The ELV Regulation is not just about waste management; it is about creating a circular economy, generating employment, and fostering technological innovation.

“With this regulation we anticipate the creation of 40,000 direct and indirect jobs, the recycling of vast quantities of valuable materials, and the generation of substantial revenue.

“This regulation will also protect the Nigerian environment, and improve road safety.”

Ugbor, who called for the strengthening of the sector through legislation, said the gains that would accrue to the country are enormous.

He said: “Today, we have the opportunity to strengthen our local frameworks through innovative policies and legislation to ensure that End-of-Life Vehicles are dismantled, processed, and repurposed efficiently in Nigeria.

“The European Union Directive 2000/53/EC and Commission Decision 2005/293/EC provide measures to reduce environmental harm due to inappropriate decontamination and disposal of car bodies, as well a providing guidelines and quantified targets for reuse, recycling and recovery of vehicles and their components, pushing producers to design and manufacture vehicles with a view to their easy recyclability. These are the good examples we must also adopt here.”

The lawmaker observed thatcthe End-of-Life Vehicle recycling industry is an economic opportunity, adding that itcan generate over a N100 billion in revenue, while creating over 40,000 direct and indirect jobs, ranging from dismantling and shredding operations to metal refining and manufacturing. Recycled materials reduce production costs for industries like automotive manufacturing, construction, and electronics.

He said the resale of functional auto parts such as engines, transmissions, replaceable body parts and batteries, offers economic opportunities while reducing waste components.

Ugbor said: “Automobiles contain various potentially hazardous materials such as steel, aluminum, copper, rubber, and plastics, which are recyclable but if left in landfills, can take decades to decompose and may release harmful toxins into the soil and water.

“Recycling metals from End-of-Life Vehicles consumes significantly less energy compared to the mining and refining of metal ore which requires significant amounts of energy and contributes to environmental

degradation. For example, recycling steel saves upto 74% of energy compared to primary production, helping to cut down greenhouse gas emissions.”

He said the success of End-of-Life Vehicle recycling depends largely on the collaboration of multiple stakeholders.

Ugbor stressed: “Government must create and implement strong End-of-Life Vehicle recycling policies, regulations and laws, with stringent deterrent provisions. Countries that implement strong End-of-Life Vehicle recycling policies create sustainable economies by reducing reliance on imported raw materials and the incessant need to extract same.

“Also, investing in modern research and recycling facilities, and innovative dismantling processes enhances national industries and competitiveness. Innovations such as AI driven sorting, automated

dismantling, and chemical recycling of plastics will further improve the overall recycling efficiency in Nigeria.

“The Automotive Industry should adopt sustainable manufacturing processes and design eco-friendly vehicles with recyclability in mind.

Investment in awareness campaigns, education and take-back programmes can create a whole new national narrative about recycling automobiles and discourage the overuse and wrongful disposal or abandonment.

“The transition towards electric vehicles (EVs) also presents new challenges and opportunities, particularly in battery and e-waste recycling. Consumers can play a significant role by delivering old cars to responsible recycling facilities and choosing environmentally friendly disposal methods by supporting businesses that prioritize sustainability and recyclability. Individuals should seek to become direct participators in the recycling industry rather than stand out as mere consumers.

“The recycling of end-of-life vehicles is not just a responsibility, but an opportunity to create a cleaner, more sustainable country. By embracing efficient recycling systems, supporting the advancement of

the automotive industry, and adopting responsible practices, we ensure that our waste is turned into a sustainable treasure for our industries.”

March 11, 2025
National Assembly celebrates Commonwealth Day 2025, reaffirms commitment to democracy, youth engagement

The Nigerian National Assembly on Monday joined other member states in commemorating Commonwealth Day 2025, reaffirming its commitment to democracy, human rights, global peace, inclusiveness, and sustainable development.

With the theme “Together We Thrive,” the event underscored Nigeria’s active participation in the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) and its dedication to fostering youth engagement and international cooperation.

Marking the annual celebration observed by former British colonies, the National Assembly took the opportunity to educate about 60 students from various secondary schools on the workings of the Commonwealth, the CPA, and other affiliated groups, particularly in relation to youth inclusion in governance.

In his keynote address, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the shared values of the 56-member Commonwealth nations.

“The National Assembly remains dedicated to strengthening democracy by supporting policies that promote social and economic inclusion, human rights, and environmental sustainability. We will continue to engage in Commonwealth parliamentary dialogue to share best practices and learn from other nations to enhance our governance,” said Hon. Mark Esset, Chairman of the House Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Affair, who represented the Speaker.

The Speaker emphasised Nigeria’s long-standing involvement in the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), recalling that the country hosted the 56th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Abuja in 2006. He noted that Nigeria continues to be an active participant in Commonwealth affairs, with prominent representatives such as Hon. Tolu Sadipe serving as the West Africa Regional Representative and Hon. Mark Esset acting as the Branch Representative.

He also lauded Hon. Zainab Gimba for the successful completion of her tenure as Chairperson of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP).

The Speaker reiterated the National Assembly’s support for recognizing the CPA as an international organization rather than merely a UK-registered charity, pointing out that a corresponding bill has already passed in the UK House of Commons.

Furthermore, he expressed concerns about political instability in various parts of Africa, particularly the resurgence of military rule and the displacement of citizens due to conflict. He urged for stronger Commonwealth cooperation in upholding democratic principles and human rights.

The Speaker urged the House Committee on Youth Affairs and the Directorate of Inter-Parliamentary Affairs to create a framework for mentoring young people who participate in such events, encouraging their engagement in legislative activities.

“Our young people are the future of our democracy. We must not only educate them on governance but also empower them through mentorship initiatives like the Legislative Mentorship Initiative (LMI),” he stressed.

On his part, Engr. B.A. Yero, Deputy Clerk of the National Assembly, representing the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, Esq., highlighted the importance of the Commonwealth Day celebration.

“The theme ‘Together We Thrive’ reminds us that despite differences in geography, culture, and history, we share common aspirations for justice, equality, and progress. Addressing challenges such as climate change, insecurity, and economic instability requires collaboration,” he stated.

The CNA urged the youth to embrace teamwork and innovation, emphasizing that they are agents of positive change in Nigeria and throughout the Commonwealth.

In observance of this event, Elder Godwin Okon Ekpenyong, Secretary of the Directorate of Inter-Parliamentary Relations and Protocol, delivered the King’s Commonwealth Day Message for 2025, which was originally published on March 9.

The message reflected on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, honouring the 1.5 million Commonwealth soldiers who fought for global peace. The King underscored the importance of international cooperation in promoting peace, human rights, and environmental sustainability.

“In these uncertain times, the Commonwealth remains a unique platform where nations—large and small, young and old—come together as one family. Our greatest strength lies in our unity and shared responsibility for a better future,” the message read.

March 10, 2025
HEDA sues National Assembly over alleged constitutional breach

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has taken legal action against the National Assembly in the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division, citing an alleged violation of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

In the suit, FHC/L/CS/286/25, filed by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mrs Fumilayo Falana, on behalf of HEDA Resource Centre, the civil society organisation seeks judicial interpretation of Sections 88(1) and (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

HEDA Resource Centre is urging the court to declare that the National Assembly lacks the authority to direct or cause to be directed investigations into any matter without a resolution published in its journal or the Official Gazette of the government of the Federation.

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Furthermore, the plaintiff is seeking a judicial pronouncement that the investigative powers of the National Assembly are strictly confined to making laws, correcting defects in existing legislation, and exposing corruption, inefficiency, or waste in the execution or administration of laws.

HEDA Resource Centre is also asking for an order of perpetual injunction restraining the National Assembly from summoning private individuals and representatives of corporate bodies to appear before its committees without adherence to constitutional provisions.

According to the organisation, the National Assembly has repeatedly summoned private persons and corporate representatives without due process, thereby violating constitutional guidelines.

“The investigative powers of the National Assembly are not unlimited; they are subject to constitutional provisions.”

March 9, 2025
National Assembly positioning Nigeria for $1tr economy by 2030, says Bamidele
- Senate Leader hosts UK parliamentarians in Abuja
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele yesterday listed a number of legislations the 10th National Assembly has embarked upon to propel Nigeria towards achieving the target of having $1 trillion economy by 2030.

He said the Red Chamber had been passing diverse laws aimed at creating an environment for economic competitiveness and positioning Nigeria to achieve the target.

Bamidele, who is representing Ekiti Central, stressed that many of the legislative initiatives were already making a difference in the daily lives of the citizenry and collective prosperity of the country.

The Senate Leader spoke at a meeting with the delegation of the United Kingdom Parliament held at the National Assembly in Abuja, according to a statement by his media office.

Led by MP Kate Osamor of Edmonton and Winchmore Hill, the delegation comprised member of the Parliament for Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale, Rt. Hon. David Mundell; member of the Parliament for Westminster North, Dame Karen Buck; member of the House of Lords, Lord Jonathan Oates, member of the Parliament for Worthing West, Dr. Beccy Cooper and member of the Parliament for Plymouth Moor View, Rt Hon. Fred Thomas, among others.

During the session with members of the UK Parliament, Bamidele explained that the National Assembly would continue to play pivotal roles in building a resilient economy and functional political system that guarantees the security of the citizenry.

He said: “Since the birth of the 10th Senate about two years ago, I have been discharging the duties of my office with modest records of accomplishment.

“One of such accomplishments is the timely passage of key legislations, particularly in the areas of fiscal reform and national security.

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“By engaging my colleagues across all political divides, we have successfully passed laws aimed at creating an environment for economic competitiveness and positioning Nigeria for a $1 trillion economy by 2030.

“I am proud to say that many of these legislative initiatives are already making a difference in the daily lives of our citizens.

“As we look towards the future, we remain deeply committed to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions and ensuring that the National Assembly continues to play its pivotal role in building a resilient economy and a functional political system that guarantees the security of all.”

Bamidele added that Nigeria’s parliament was building synergy with different parliamentary associations and institutions across the world to address the dearth of institutional capacity.

The Senate Leader promised the delegation that the 10th Senate would give priority attention to gender issue, recalling that the Ninth Senate was almost resolving the issue before it closed in June 2023.

The leader of the delegation, MP Kate Osamor, solicited the inclusion of more women in the National Assembly to address existing gender gap in the nation’s electoral offices.

Osamor said: “We have to make sure more women are in the parliament. Every society is a reflection of elected representatives.”
March 5, 2025
CNA advocates development of legislative drafting manual for National Assembly

In a bid to improve the quality of legislation in line with global best practices, the Clerk to the National Assembly (CNA) of Nigeria, Barr. Kamoru Ogunlana, has called for the development of legislative drafting manuals.

Ogunlana made this appeal on Monday while receiving a delegation from the British Parliament on a working visit to the National Assembly in Abuja.

He noted that the visit provided a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas and learn from the British legislative experience, which could help strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

“As members of the British Parliament, you share a legacy of fostering governance that reflects the will of the people and champion rights and freedoms. We take immense pride in the path we have forged and the collaborative spirit we have nurtured with you over the decades. Our member-to-member engagements, parliamentary exchanges, and mutual visits have enriched our legislative processes and brought our nations closer together.

“The National Assembly of Nigeria consists of two chambers: the Senate and the House of Representatives. Together, we are entrusted with the critical responsibility of making laws, representing the interests of our citizens, and overseeing the executive branch of government. We are dedicated to promoting good governance and enhancing the welfare of Nigerians through legislation that meets our national aspirations.

“Your visit is particularly significant as it provides an opportunity to strengthen our dialogue on various issues, including economic cooperation, security, and the fight against corruption. We are eager to exchange ideas and learn from your experiences, which can enhance our efforts in building a more robust democratic institution.

“As you engage with our lawmakers and experience the rich culture and diversity of Nigeria, we hope you will find inspiration, friendship, and fruitful discussions that pave the way for even more profound collaboration in the future”, the Nigeria’s CNA said.

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He reminisced on the long term relationship that existed between the British Parliament and Nigerian Parliament, saying such partnership laid the foundation for legislative framework, influencing Nigeria’s governance structures and fostering a culture of democracy that continues to evolve today.

Ogunlana stressed, “The historic relationship between the Nigerian Parliament and the British Parliament dates back to the early 20th century, when Nigeria was still under colonial rule. This relationship laid the foundation for our legislative framework, influencing our governance structures and fostering a culture of democracy that continues to evolve today.

“The principles of parliamentary democracy that we uphold – debate, representation, and accountability – are deeply rooted in the traditions we’ve inherited and adapted over the years”.

On her part, the leader of the delegation and Member of the House of Commons in the British Parliament, Kate Ofunne Osamor, said the team was in Nigeria to further strengthen the bilateral legislative relationship, and to further study how the Nigeria’s Parliament is fairing, to know where to intervene, if necessary.

She said, “the whole essence of that work is that, we transfer skills and knowledge to Parliamentarians from the Commonwealth and this is why it’s really important that we are here, to learn about the work that is happening here, and to find the way to support the Clerk’s need.

“I do appreciate that in Westminster we have huge team of Clerks and that’s not the case in Nigeria. It doesn’t mean that you can’t be as mighty as we are. So that’s why we have people here to support the work that you’re doing, learn from what you have already done, and make sure that whatever goes forward in the House is fit for purpose.

“So that is the essence of our work here today and why we are here for the next couple of days as well. So I’m very eager to hear from you and hear where we can make sure we make inputs”.

March 3, 2025
ACF writes National Assembly on tax reforms

The Arewa Consultative Forum(ACF) has submitted a report to the National Assembly, outlining its views and recommendations on the Tax Reform Bills.

The report was compiled by a special-purpose committee of experts.

In a statement yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary Tukur Muhammad-Baba, the ACF said ‘’the proposed tax reforms have far-reaching implications for all sections of the country, not just the North.’’

The forum recommended the retention of the current 7.5 per cent VAT rate, citing the economic challenges faced by Nigerians and businesses.

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The statement reads in part:‘’We have taken a meticulous approach to studying the bills and providing recommendations that will benefit the nation as a whole.

“We recognise that the government needs to increase revenue, but we also believe that the current VAT rate already places a significant burden on citizens and businesses.

“Increasing the rate further could have unintended consequences, such as reducing consumer spending and harming economic growth.”

ACF suggested improved VAT collection, formalisation of the informal sector, and utilisation of digital technologies as ways of expanding the country’s tax base.

Another key concern highlighted by the ACF is the definition of “derivation” and its distribution.

The ACF recommended a clear definition of the term to ensure that distribution was based on a consensus reached through consultations with states and local governments.

It said: “The concept of derivation is critical to ensuring that states and local governments receive their fair share of revenue.

“However, the current definition is ambiguous, and we believe it needs to be clarified to avoid disputes and ensure transparency.”

It also recommends a significant reduction in the powers of the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors/Governance of the Joint Revenue Board.

February 25, 2025