…adjourn plenary to mourn 3 senators
By Gloria Ikibah
The House of Representatives has assured Nigerians that it will subject the 2026 Appropriation Bill to detailed scrutiny to ensure it effectively supports governance and drives national development. 
The Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, gave the assurance was while giving his opening remarks as the House resumed plenary after the Christmas and New Year recess.
The Deputy Speaker noted that the budget, now before the legislature, would be carefully examined through the work of relevant committees to ensure it becomes a practical and efficient tool for ministries, departments and agencies, as well as for the country as a whole.
Kalu also disclosed that, beyond the budget process, the House will focus on priority legislative issues, including amendments to the Electoral Act and a review of key constitutional provisions.
At the session, the House observed a moment of solemn reflection as plenary activities were adjourned in honour of three deceased senators.
According to him, “There are targets and milestones that we hope to achieve this year. One of them is the Electoral Act. The coming days will show the Senate doing their part, having done our part”.
He further assured that, in line with its Legislative Agenda, the House would work closely to translate the government’s Renewed Hope vision into tangible outcomes.
Kalu expressed confidence that by 2026, Nigerians would see clear evidence that Renewed Hope is not merely an idea but a lived reality.
Meanwhile, plenary was adjourned until Wednesday in honour of three late senators. They are Senator Godiya Akwashiki, who represented Nasarawa North between 2019 and 2025; Senator Okechukwu Ezea, who served Enugu North from 2023 to 2025; and Senator John Kojo-Brambaifa, a former senator for Bayelsa West from 2003 to 2007.
Kalu explained that the decision to adjourn the sitting was taken in accordance with the House Standing Orders and established parliamentary rules.
