Honourable Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, announced that the 10th House of Representatives dedicated significant attention to a diverse array of matters, including 962 bills, 500 motions, and 153 petitions over six months.
Addressing the assembly in Abuja during the Saturday plenary session that preceded the New Year break, Abbas lauded the House’s exceptional legislative outputs during this period. The impressive statistics encompassed the consideration of 962 bills and 500 motions, with an additional focus on 153 petitions.
Highlighting the intricacies of these statistics, Abbas noted, “Of these numbers, 120 bills have passed the second reading.” He emphasised that these bills are currently undergoing meticulous review and refinement to address concerns raised during robust debates.
Furthermore, Abbas revealed that another 120 bills had been referred to committees for thorough analysis. He proudly acknowledged the successful passage of various bills, which had subsequently been transmitted to the Senate for concurrence. Notable among these were the Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023, and the Federal Audit Service Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023.
The legislative triumphs didn’t stop there, as the House successfully navigated the passage of critical bills such as the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons Bill, 2023; the Federal Fire and Rescue Service Bill, 2023; and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2023.
Abbas went on to list other significant bills, including the Niger Delta Development Commission Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023; the Nigerian Medical Research Council (Establishment) Bill, 2023; and the Nigerian Peace Corps (Establishment) Bill, 2023. Notably, the South East Development Commission (Establishment) Bill, 2023, was also thoroughly considered.
“All these bills are intended to provide immediate relief and long-term solutions to the challenges that have plagued our society,” emphasised Abbas. “Through these bills, we aim to empower our citizens, enhance social justice, promote economic growth, and promote peace and security.”
Simultaneously, Abbas highlighted the House’s commitment to addressing pressing matters through motions, considering them powerful tools of legislative representation. The House deliberated on significant issues such as oil theft, student loans, job racketeering, JAMB, firearms, and more—over 500 motions in total.
Commending the lawmakers for their unwavering support, Abbas underscored the House’s dedication to fostering a harmonious and professional relationship with the executive, solidifying their commitment to effective governance.
