By Gloria Ikibah
The House of Representatives is set to hold a security summit in the last quarter of the year 2024 to address the growing attacks by gunmen across Nigeria.
Speaker Tajudeen Abbas disclosed this in his resumption speech during Wednesday’s plenary session.
He urged lawmakers to step up efforts to deliver the benefits of democracy to Nigerians and praised the recent achievements of security forces in the fight against terrorism.
Abbas said, “The House of Representatives will hold a high-level security summit in the final quarter of the year to tackle the country’s security challenges. Key stakeholders like the executive, security agencies, policy experts, and civil society organisations will be involved. The focus will be on legislative reforms to strengthen our security institutions, improve cooperation among agencies, and enhance intelligence use against threats such as insurgency and banditry.”
The Speaker noted that the military had “successfully neutralised over 150 terrorists and major bandit leaders,” and that improved collaboration with neighbouring countries and better intelligence sharing reflected the government’s commitment to restoring peace.
He also emphasised the need for close cooperation with the executive arm of government.
“We are committed to working in harmony with the executive for the greater good of Nigeria, while preserving our independence as a legislative body,” he added.
Speaker Abbas also reflected on the achievements of the House before the recess in July.
“Before the break, we passed several important bills and conducted oversight that impacted the lives of citizens. With 1,351 bills introduced and 89 passed, we’ve made significant progress in areas such as electricity, healthcare, and financial accountability.”
Looking ahead, he said the House would prioritise issues like economic reforms, youth empowerment, healthcare, infrastructure, and education.
“We will pass laws to drive economic recovery, attract investments, create jobs, and provide immediate relief to vulnerable populations,” Abbas stated.
He commended President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Executive Council for approving economic stabilisation bills, which offer tax relief to businesses and workers.
“The House is prepared to receive and pass these bills to ensure economic stability”, he asserted.
Abbas outlined the priorities for the second session (2024-2025), which include the full digitisation of legislative records, gender equality, and strengthening oversight of the security sector, and he also highlighted the importance of several key bills, including amendments to the Armed Forces Act and the Police Act to improve internal security and community policing.
The Speaker praised President Tinubu’s proposed Disaster Relief Fund, aimed at helping communities affected by natural disasters like floods. He also underscored the importance of the Whistleblower Protection Bill, which provides safeguards for reporting corruption, and the National Audit Bill, designed to improve financial oversight.
Abbas further noted the commitment of the House to constitutional reforms, including the devolution of powers, promoting women’s political participation, and advancing electoral reforms.