Key topics, such as President Bola Tinubu’s 2025 Appropriations Bill, the constitutional review process, and electoral changes, among others, would be given legislative priority when the House of Representatives reconvenes on Tuesday, September 24.
According to reports, legislators who left on vacation on July 23, 2024, will convene again to discuss and resolve issues such as the economy, the fuel problem, and security.
The House of Representatives’ spokesperson, Akin Rotimi, said in a statement released on Monday that Tuesday is anticipated to see Speaker Tajudeen Abbas give what he described as an agenda-setting speech.
“With the 2024 fiscal year coming to a close, the House eagerly anticipates receiving the 2025 Appropriation bill soon. Timely submission from the executive is crucial, as it facilitates thorough scrutiny and public input through town hall meetings, a practice pioneered by the House during the 2024 budget review.
“The House is firmly committed to maintaining the January-December budget cycle and anticipates cooperation from the executive in this regard.
“Honourable members will actively debate and pursue legislative action on pressing challenges faced by Nigerians, particularly those related to the recent flooding in Maiduguri, the spate of insecurity in the country, and the economy.
“These issues, among others of urgent national importance, will be prioritized as we respond to the needs of our constituencies.”
The Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, is scheduled to give what he described as an agenda-setting address on Tuesday, according to a statement released on Monday by House of Representatives spokesman Akin Rotimi.
“Bills and motions aligned with our commitments in the legislative agenda will receive prioritisation and fast-tracking, particularly because they will serve as indicators by which Nigerians assess the 10th Assembly at the upcoming mid-term in June 2025,” he added.
The 1999 constitution has to be amended, as the statement that followed further emphasised, adding, “The constitutional review process serves as the bedrock of our democracy, embodying our collective aspirations for a just society.” The deadline of December 2025 to reach a final decision on the Sixth Amendment to the 1999 Constitution (as amended) is reiterated by the House.
“The House Committee on Constitution Review, chaired by the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, will intensify efforts to address pressing issues and align our laws with the needs of the public.”
He added that the Committee received “About 305 memoranda from the public and about 150 constitution alteration bills from honourable members, reflecting significant public engagement and concern. These bills will be given accelerated consideration.”
“Article 6.7 on Law Reform in our Legislative Agenda outlines that the 10th House will prioritise amending the Electoral Act 2022 to address gaps, including vague and contradictory provisions. In line with our agenda, we are also committed to establishing a mechanism for periodic reviews of electoral laws to ensure they remain relevant and aligned with global best practices,” the statement further read.
“In light of the landmark Supreme Court ruling in July 2024 on local government autonomy, we anticipate bills aimed at ensuring the consequential alignment of various extant laws with this new reality. This issue is pivotal to our Legislative Agenda, particularly Article 6.3 on Law Reform (Agenda 3).
The 10th Assembly made a number of reform recommendations for Nigeria’s local government councils, including modifying the constitution to give them autonomy over finances and operations. This change is necessary to avoid overlaps and conflicts and to clearly define the tasks and responsibilities of local governments.
“Further reforms will address electoral processes within local councils and clarify their roles in maintaining security at the grassroots level. These initiatives are crucial for empowering local governments and ensuring they effectively serve their communities,” Rotimi noted.
The legislator stated that the House is expecting an executive bill pertaining to whistleblower protection. His statement stressed that “efforts in this area promise to significantly boost the fight against corruption and improve Nigeria’s revenue streams.” “This initiative aligns with our 8-Point Legislative Agenda, particularly aspects focused on strengthening good governance and improving national security,” he said.
Constituent outreach, legislative compliance, and oversight are among the other areas of interest mentioned.
