…say 2nd anniversary of 10th House will celebrate progress, showcase institutional reforms, reinforce people connection

By Gloria Ikibah

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, has called for renewed dedication to legislative excellence and national service.

Speaker Abbas who stated this while delivering his welcome address after the Sallah and Easter recess, reflected on recent legislative achievements and outlined key priorities for the coming months.

He said: “It is my distinct pleasure to welcome you all back from the Sallah and Easter recess.

“I trust the break affordqed you the opportunity to reconnect with your families, engage with your constituents, and reflect deeply on the moral and spiritual lessons these sacred seasons inspire”.

He highlighted improvements to digital infrastructure within the chamber, which he said would “greatly facilitate legislative activities”.

Abbas reviewed the accomplishments of the House before the break, and noted that the passage of tax reform bills was designed to boost revenue generation, simplify compliance, and attract investment.

“This achievement reflects our enduring commitment to responsible economic governance and national development,” he stated.

On national security, he addressed the political crisis in Rivers State, where the House endorsed a state of emergency following a presidential proclamation.

“We inaugurated a 21-member Ad-Hoc Committee, led by the Leader of the House, to exercise oversight of the caretaker administration and safeguard democratic accountability in the state.

“That Committee has since commenced its engagement with stakeholders on the ground”, he said.

He announced plans to form a joint reconciliation committee with the Senate to promote peace and restore democratic order in Rivers and other crisis-prone regions.

Turning to citizen engagement, Speaker Abbas celebrated the launch of the Speaker’s New Media Exchange, an initiative aimed at strengthening Parliament’s connection with the public through digital platforms.

“We acknowledge the changing public discourse and aim to enhance Parliament’s connection with citizens, particularly engaging youth through modern platforms like digital influencers and online leaders,” he said.

He also referenced his opening address at the Legislative Conference on Renewable Energy in Lagos, which brought together African lawmakers, sub-national leaders, and energy experts.

“I emphasized Nigeria’s urgent need to shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy,” he said, adding that both federal and legislative actions are being aligned to support this transition.

However, he acknowledged grim developments during the recess, including renewed violence and terrorist attacks.

“Our recess was marked by distressing events, including unjustified killings in Borno, Plateau, Benue, and Kwara States.

“The resurgence of terrorist attacks in the North-East, particularly a deadly bombing near Gamboru, has claimed many civilian lives.

“The House unequivocally condemns these attacks on innocent citizens. On behalf of the House, I extend heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and urge our security agencies to not only bring the perpetrators to justice but also to redouble efforts to prevent further violence”, he stated.

On the economic front, Speaker Abbas referred to the recent Article IV consultation by the International Monetary Fund, noting the Fund’s recognition of Nigeria’s fiscal discipline under current reforms.

“However, it also called for sustained efforts to curb inflation and bolster external reserves.

“As a legislative body, we shall ensure our appropriation and oversight processes reinforce these macroeconomic objectives”, he added.

With meteorological agencies predicting severe flooding across over thirty states, Speaker Abbas called for legislative vigilance and collaboration.

He reaffirmed the House’s commitment to constitutional review and critical reforms.

“I call on all relevant committees of the House to work with the Executive branch to review the country’s emergency preparedness, propose mitigation strategies, and provide oversight over legislative frameworks on disaster risk management and climate resilience.

“Our goal remains clear. We aim to commence and complete the constitutional amendment process in good time, with broad consensus and outcomes that reflect the will of the Nigerian people.”

He stressed the urgency of passing key legislation, including the anticipated electoral reform bill, and other laws addressing unemployment, poverty, healthcare, education, and national security.

Looking ahead to the second anniversary of the 10th House of Representatives, Abbas outlined a packed calendar of public engagement.

“The coming weeks will be exceptionally busy with a series of carefully curated engagements aimed at celebrating our progress, showcasing institutional reforms, and reinforcing the connection between the Legislature and the Nigerian people.”

He announced events including a Public Policy Dialogue on 12 May in Abuja, a Citizens’ Engagement and Media Roundtable in June, and zonal media engagements in Kaduna and Lagos. A House Open Week is scheduled for July 1 to 4, along with a live media chat to mark the anniversary.

“These activities… reflect our values as the People’s House and offer critical platforms for evaluating our work, refining our agenda, and projecting our collective vision,” he said.

He urged full participation and collaboration among members and committees to ensure the success of the anniversary programmes.

“In conclusion, honourable colleagues, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for your steadfast loyalty and support.

“As we prepare to mark our second anniversary, I encourage you to continue as we have begun and recommit ourselves to national service and legislative excellence.”

“Thank you, and may the Almighty continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria”, he emphasised.