Category: Political

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ANNOUNCES PROGRAMME OF ACTIVITIES FOR NASS OPEN WEEK 2026

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ANNOUNCES PROGRAMME OF ACTIVITIES FOR NASS OPEN WEEK 2026

Abuja, FCT | Sunday, July 12, 2026 – The House of Representatives has announced the programme of activities for NASS Open Week 2026, themed “Three Years of the 10th Assembly: Advancing Transparency, Inclusion and Reform.”

Marking the third anniversary of the 10th Assembly, NASS Open Week is the House’s flagship public engagement initiative, designed to deepen citizens’ participation in the legislative process, showcase the achievements and impact of the House over the past three years, and reinforce the principles of transparency, accountability, inclusion, and responsive governance.

Speaking on the initiative, the House Spokesman, Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr., said NASS Open Week reflects the House’s unwavering commitment to an Open Parliament by fostering meaningful dialogue between lawmakers and citizens, showcasing the work of the 10th Assembly, and strengthening public confidence in the legislature.

The programme of activities is as follows:

Tuesday, July 14, 2026

  • Opening Ceremony and Unveiling of the Three-Year Legislative Scorecard – 10:00 a.m., Chamber, House of Representatives
  • Oversight and Delivery Exchange – 2:00 p.m., Temporary Chamber

Wednesday, July 15, 2026

  • National Security Roundtable – 9:00 a.m., National Assembly Library Trust Fund
  • Dialogue on Reserved Seats for Women and Persons with Disabilities – 2:00 p.m., Temporary Chamber
  • Legislative Engagement with Traditional Rulers – 2:00 p.m., National Assembly Library Trust Fund

Thursday, July 16, 2026

  • Legislative Business Breakfast – 8:30 a.m., National Assembly Library Trust Fund
  • Youth Town Hall – 2:00 p.m., Temporary Chamber
  • Closing Cocktail – 6:00 p.m., National Assembly Library Trust Fund

The House invites members of the public, civil society organisations, development partners, the media, youth and women’s groups, persons with disabilities, traditional institutions, professional bodies, academia, and other interested stakeholders to participate in the various engagements throughout the week.

NASS Open Week 2026 offers citizens a unique opportunity to engage directly with the House of Representatives, gain deeper insight into its legislative and oversight work, and contribute to conversations that strengthen democratic governance, transparency, inclusion, and accountability in Nigeria.

Members of the public who are unable to attend the events in person are encouraged to follow the activities and conversations throughout the week via the official platforms of the House of Representatives.

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The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., GCON, has congratulated Nigerians on the safe rescue of the teachers, pupils, and students kidnapped by terrorists in Oyo State. He described their safety return as “a pleasant close to a bad chapter in the country’s history.”

Oyo students, teachers’ rescue, closure to a bad chapter—Speaker Abbas

The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., GCON, has congratulated Nigerians on the safe rescue of the teachers, pupils, and students kidnapped by terrorists in Oyo State. He described their safety return as “a pleasant close to a bad chapter in the country’s history.”

This is just as Speaker Abbas commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for showing leadership, and Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State for his cooperation with the Federal Government and security forces while the rescue operations lasted.

The Speaker, who hailed the gallantry of the Armed Forces, paramilitary, and intelligence agencies, as well as non-state security outfits, said the successful rescue has renewed the confidence in their capacity and capability. This, he noted, was evident in the nationwide jubilation that followed the news.

Speaker Abbas noted that the relief was not only for the families and communities of the abductees but also for all Nigerians who shared their pains and imagined the terror they might have gone through.

While calling for concerted efforts to protect schools and other public facilities that terrorists may consider as soft targets, the Speaker urged security forces to rescue other Nigerians in captivity across the country.

Speaker Abbas restated the commitment of the House to providing legislative interventions that will aid the safety of life and property as well as the country’s territorial integrity.

Terrorists, on May 15, 2026, simultaneously attacked Community Grammar School, Ahoro-Esiele, and Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, all in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, and kidnapped 39 pupils, students, and seven teachers. While a teacher was shot dead during the operations, another was beheaded days later.

After a 56-day ordeal that gripped the nation, the Presidency on Friday announced the successful rescue operation, with the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosing that eight suspected kidnappers were arrested while several others were neutralised.

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The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., GCON, has extended his congratulations to the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, on his re-nomination as the All Progressives Congress’s vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections.

2027: Your nomination is a confirmation of competence, loyalty, Speaker Abbas congratulates VP Shettima

…lauds President Tinubu for abiding faith in VP

The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., GCON, has extended his congratulations to the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, on his re-nomination as the All Progressives Congress’s vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections.

In his congratulatory message on Saturday, Speaker Abbas described Senator Shettima’s selection as a testament to his competence, merit, and loyalty—not only to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, but also to the nation.

The Speaker also praised President Tinubu for his trust and confidence in Vice President Shettima, highlighting that the VP’s re-nomination has bolstered the APC’s prospects in the January presidential election.

The Speaker emphasized that no opposition party or candidate can defeat the Tinubu-Shettima ticket, asserting that President Tinubu’s nomination of VP Shettima represents both a winning move for the APC and a clear demonstration of his political acumen.

While the Speaker described Senator Shettima as a dependable deputy, partner, and ally of President Tinubu, he emphasized that the Vice President has exhibited genuine loyalty to his principal and the administration. He said this is rare in the corridors of power and politics.

“I join the leaders and countless members of our esteemed party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), in congratulating Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, on his re-nomination as the vice presidential candidate alongside President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

“Since taking office as Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, has remained loyal and dependable, which is why the administration stays focused and determined to improve the lives of citizens.

“With this decision, President Tinubu exemplifies extraordinary leadership and astute political judgment. The President’s confidence and belief in VP Shettima continue to stand firm.

“I make bold to say that this decision has further strengthened our party’s chances in the 2027 election. Without sounding conceited, APC will easily cruise to victory come January,” the Speaker remarked.

The Speaker encouraged all APC leaders and members to utilize every available resource to promote the APC and extend the campaign to even the most remote areas of the country.

On Friday, the APC confirmed VP Shettima as President Tinubu’s running mate for the 2027 presidential election.

At a ceremony on Friday, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the ruling party officially received the nomination forms for President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima from Ibrahim Masari, the President’s Special Adviser on Political Matters.

Political parties are required to submit their nominations to the Independent National Electoral Commission before the Saturday deadline.

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This is just as the President said he is aware of the pains occasioned by the socio-economic reforms caused by his administration, which he said have become necessary to build solid foundations for the country’s prosperity.

Informal sector is the true engine of Nigeria’s economy – President Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has said that the informal sector remains the true engine of Nigeria’s economy, sustaining millions of livelihoods.

This is just as the President said he is aware of the pains occasioned by the socio-economic reforms caused by his administration, which he said have become necessary to build solid foundations for the country’s prosperity.

Represented by the Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., GCON, President Tinubu said this at the official inauguration of access roads, power, and water supply to the Informal Sector Layout, Wasa District, Abuja, on Friday.

The President stated, “What we are commissioning today goes far beyond the provision of access roads, erecting electricity poles, or laying water pipes. This is an investment in human dignity and economic freedom.

“The informal sector is the true engine of our economy, sustaining millions of livelihoods. By providing premium infrastructure here in Wasa, we are transforming this district into a modern, vibrant commercial hub that will boost Abuja’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and lower the cost of doing business.”

The President stated that the project’s inauguration is to celebrate “another milestone in our collective journey toward urban renewal, economic inclusivity, and national transformation.”

He said, “To all Nigerians, I am deeply aware of the current economic realities across our nation. As your President, I feel your pain, I hear your concerns, and I carry the weight of your daily struggles. The economic reforms we have initiated are undoubtedly painful, and their immediate impact has been heavy on households and businesses alike.

“However, I assure you with the utmost sincerity that these decisions were not made lightly; they are difficult but necessary surgeries required to save the patient. We are painstakingly tearing down the broken structures of the past to lay an unshakeable, sustainable foundation for a prosperous future.”

President Tinubu stressed that true nation-building requires patience, resilience, and collective effort. “No great nation was ever built overnight or on the foundation of easy, short-term fixes,” he stated.

While urging all citizens across the federation to continue to support his administration, the President enjoined them to “stand with us as we navigate this challenging transition.” He also noted that their trust “is the fuel that drives our resolve, and I promise you that your sacrifices will not be in vain.”

President Tinubu added, “Let me reassure every citizen today: this government remains unswervingly committed to the welfare of all Nigerians. We are not just asking you to endure; we are actively working to cushion the effects and build a resilient economy. We are implementing targeted social intervention programs, investing heavily in agriculture to ensure food security, and creating jobs through massive structural developments like the one we see here today.

“My administration will not rest on its oars. We will continue to do more, build more, and invest more until the benefits of these reforms reach every single Nigerian home.”

This is just as President Tinubu commended Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Wike, for his “fierce dedication, unmatched drive, and effective leadership,” saying the former Governor of Rivers State has “proven time and again that with the right political will, projects are not just conceptualized—they are executed with speed and precision.”

The President equally praised Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, for her “steadfast support, collaborative spirit, and dedication to the welfare of the people have been instrumental in harmonising the efforts of the FCT Administration to deliver on our promises.”

He said, “Together as a team, they have shown that the era of abandoned public projects in the Federal Capital Territory is officially over.”

President Tinubu recalled that when his administration came on board and presented the Renewed Hope Agenda to Nigerians, “we made a solemn pledge: that no segment of our society would be left behind, and that infrastructure would not be built for only the elite, but as a ladder for the economic empowerment of the everyday Nigerian.”

He also recalled that for over a decade, the hardworking mechanics, artisans, and traders—particularly those from the Apo Mechanic Village—have operated under challenging conditions, awaiting a permanent, structured, and conducive environment to drive their businesses.

He noted that the relocation to Wasa District was a promise long delayed by previous administrations. “Today, under this administration, that promise has been fulfilled,” he added.

To the artisans, business owners, and residents who will utilise the layout, the President urged them to protect the facility, maintain it, and “use it as a foundation to scale up your businesses, create wealth, and generate employment for our youth.”

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The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., GCON, has said history will be kind to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, especially for the courageous steps taken by his administration towards socio-economic reforms in Nigeria.

History will remember President Tinubu for his courage—Speaker Abbas

The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., GCON, has said history will be kind to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, especially for the courageous steps taken by his administration towards socio-economic reforms in Nigeria.

Speaker Abbas, in his goodwill message at the inauguration of the National Executives of the PBAT Door-to-Door Movement in Abuja on Thursday, noted that the movement stands for the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu and the actualisation of his second term in office at the 2027 general elections.

The Speaker said, “Let me say it plainly, and without flattery: history will remember this President for his courage. He met a nation at a crossroads and chose the path of conviction over convenience. The fuel subsidy: removed. The exchange rate: unified. The tax system was rebuilt from the ground up through the reform Acts that took effect in January this year. These were not decisions taken for applause. They were decisions taken for posterity.

“Yes, the road has demanded sacrifice, and we do not take that sacrifice lightly. But the early dividends are visible: rising revenues, returning confidence, and a fiscal system that rewards production, not consumption. A nation that endures the discipline of reform earns the right to its rewards.”

Giving his testimony as Speaker of the 10th House, he stated that “none of these happened by executive fiat alone,” adding that “every major reform passed through the crucible of the People’s House.”

Speaker Abbas stressed, “We debated. We refined. We passed. The tax laws. The student loan scheme. The consumer credit framework. The new national minimum wage. Each one bears the imprint of your Parliament.

“So, what Nigerians are witnessing is not merely a reforming presidency. It is institutions working together, exactly as the Constitution intends. And herein lies the truth this Movement must carry to every doorstep: renewed hope is not the burden of one man, however gifted, however determined.

“It is a covenant of the whole society. A President who leads. A legislature that refines and oversees. Courts that uphold the law. States and Local Governments that deliver. A civil service that implements. A private sector that creates. And citizens who participate, who pay their taxes, who hold their leaders to account, and who keep faith with the Nigerian project. So when you knock on a door, you are not merely canvassing for a candidate. You are inviting a fellow citizen to share in the ownership of national renewal.”

The Speaker saluted the Founder and Grand Patron of the PBAT Door-to-Door Movement, High Chief Dr. Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo; National Coordinator, Sunday A. Asuku; Secretary General, Daniel Oluwatosin Dorcas; and the entire leadership.

“You have chosen to take politics back to where it belongs: to the doorstep of the Nigerian citizen. Door to door. Street to street. Ward to ward. In an age when engagement is too often reduced to slogans, you have chosen conversation over confrontation, and contact over commotion,” he said.

While noting that democracy is not an abstract concept, Speaker Abbas pointed out that “it lives in our compounds and our markets. It lives in our town halls and our places of worship. It lives in the daily conversations of ordinary Nigerians.”

The Speaker, however, told the movement that “mobilisation is a means, not an end,” noting that the test of a movement is not the size of its crowds but the substance of its conversations.

“So, make your engagement a two-way street. When you knock, do not only speak. Listen. And when you have listened, report back. What you gather on the doorstep is legislative gold. It tells us where policy touches the ground, and where it does not. By becoming a channel between citizen and state, this Movement will serve Nigeria far beyond any single election,” he said.

Speaker Abbas added that it is in that same spirit that the National Assembly hosts its annual Open Week from the 14th to the 16th of this month, barely a week from today. He said the doors of the People’s Parliament will be open to citizens, civil society, students, and the media.

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The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D, GCON, has announced that the National Assembly will hold its third Open Week from July 14 to 16, 2026, commemorating the three-year anniversary of the 10th Assembly.

Speaker Abbas announces 3rd NASS Open Week to hold July 14 – 16

The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D, GCON, has announced that the National Assembly will hold its third Open Week from July 14 to 16, 2026, commemorating the three-year anniversary of the 10th Assembly.

A press statement by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, said the Speaker made the announcement on his social media handles over the weekend.

The statement noted that the theme for this year’s Open Week, which is ‘Three Years of the 10th Assembly: Advancing Transparency, Inclusion, and Reform,’ “reflects not just our journey but our commitment to building a legislature that is accessible, accountable, and responsive to every Nigerian.”

The Speaker’s social media posts read in part, “A parliament that listens earns the trust of the people. A parliament that opens its doors strengthens democracy.

“That conviction inspired the birth of the National Assembly Open Week, and I am delighted that we are set for the 3rd edition of this unique initiative from 14th to 16th July, 2026.

“The National Assembly belongs to the people. Open Week provides an opportunity for Nigerians to engage with their parliament, evaluate our performance over the past year, understand the work we do, and contribute ideas that will strengthen our democratic institutions.”

He added that the 2026 edition of the Open Week “promises even more robust, people-centred engagements. We will convene a Legislative Business Breakfast to deepen collaboration between the legislature and the private sector on policies that drive economic growth, investment, and job creation.

“We will also host a National Security Roundtable, bringing together critical stakeholders to exchange ideas and chart practical legislative pathways for addressing the nation’s evolving security challenges.

“Equally significant is the national conversation on reserved seats for women and persons with disabilities—a transformative reform that seeks to make our democracy more inclusive, representative, and equitable.

“I also eagerly look forward to engaging with young Nigerians at the Youth Town Hall on the 2027 elections, where we will discuss their vital role in strengthening democratic participation and shaping the Nigeria of tomorrow.

“Democracy flourishes where there is openness. Institutions grow stronger when they are subjected to public scrutiny. And nations make lasting progress when every citizen has a voice.

“I warmly invite all Nigerians to be part of this year’s National Assembly Open Week. Together, let us continue to deepen transparency, promote inclusion, and advance the reforms that will strengthen our democracy for generations to come,” the Speaker stated.

The 2026 Open Week will also offer the Parliament an opportunity to showcase its 3-year scorecard.

The schedule of the Open Week indicates that on Tuesday, July 14, the opening ceremony and unveiling the 3-year scorecard will take place inside the chambers of the House of Representatives in the morning, while a session on oversight and delivery briefing will hold in the afternoon at the conference hall of the National Assembly Library Trust Fund (NALTF).

On Day 2 of the event, which is Wednesday, July 15, the morning session will be on the National Security Roundtable, to be held at the NALTF. It will feature conversations on state policing and broader national security reform, alongside the role of traditional rulers in early warning systems and community policing. The afternoon session will focus on the reserved seats for women and persons with disabilities.

The third day of the Open Week, which is Thursday, July 16, will feature Legislative Business Breakfast Meeting in the morning at the NALTF. The afternoon session will focus on Youth Townhall, to be hosted at the former House temporary chambers.

Recall that the 10th National Assembly had, in June 2024, held its maiden Open Week. The second edition was held in July 2025.

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The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., GCON, has said that after the reserved seats for women, the House would champion the push for similar seats for people living with disabilities (PLWDs).

House to champion reserved seats for PWDs – Speaker Abbas

…says President Tinubu, First Lady support women special seats

The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., GCON, has said that after the reserved seats for women, the House would champion the push for similar seats for people living with disabilities (PLWDs).

This is even as the Speaker stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, are committed to empowering women through the proposed exclusive parliamentary seats for women.

The Speaker announced this in Abuja on Thursday while hosting a delegation from the United Nations, led by Ms. Ahunna Eziakonwa, the UN Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP Regional Director for Africa, who was joined by Ms. Elsie Attafuah, the Resident Representative of UNDP in Nigeria.

A bill proposing the creation of special seats for women in the National Assembly and state Houses of Assembly is being considered by the Federal Parliament as part of the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution.

Speaker Abbas said, “Let me inform you that after addressing the reserved women’s seats, our next focus, in collaboration with the UNDP, will be on people with disabilities.” These are people who have been neglected in this country—not just in Nigeria, but across Africa.

“We need to step up and ensure that they are given more visibility—more leverage, particularly on elective positions—that they can as well contribute their quota to the socio-economic development of our country and Africa. What we do in Nigeria can resonate throughout Africa. We believe that initiative, if it succeeds, would also open doors across Africa. Others would emulate us by also creating special seats for persons with disabilities.

“It is another venture that we are very passionate about pursuing. I believe with Mr. President’s vision and commitment to the overall well-being of all Nigerians, it would be another project that would see the light of day, by God’s grace.”

Speaker Abbas also informed the UNDP delegation that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the First Lady have committed themselves to the reserved seats bill.

“I want to use this opportunity to enlighten you more on the special seats bill, which I’m excited to say—I can confidently tell you that Mr. President and the First Lady of the country are 100 per cent on board, on this matter. Within the last six months, Mr. President had cause to speak on reserved seats for women at different fora.

“Just three weeks ago, we had another very fruitful engagement with him and the First Lady on the way forward and what we need to do to ensure that in the ongoing constitution review this issue of reserved seats is well captured and endorsed, not only by the National Assembly but also the sub-national governments in the 36 states.”

The Speaker also explained that as part of cutting financial and logistical costs in electing female lawmakers to occupy the reserved seats, an electoral college made up of elected public officers has been proposed to vote for candidates for the exclusive seats.

Earlier, Eziakonwa commended Speaker Abbas for championing the cause of women inclusion and gender equality in Nigeria.

She said, “You have—really—a tough job, and it is very important. Under the 10th Parliament, I think, championing very important, significant reforms that are transformational that mark a new beginning for this country.

“I just want to commend you for your courage in standing strong around some of these tough issues for the nation. The one that is close to my heart is the (proposed) reserved seats for women (in parliament).”

The UN official added, “We hope that, with your unparalleled leadership and goodwill, all the efforts will bear some fruit, because on the UNDP side, we really believe that this is not just a right issue; it is a development issue. If we can leverage all of our population—men and women—equally for leadership, I think we will advance our steps a lot.”

While noting that “everyone is looking at this country to step the right foot forward,” Eziakonwa stated that “Nigeria is a shining example for us to sustain democracy in Africa.”

Furthermore, Attafuah commended Speaker Abbas for his efforts towards realising reserved seats for women in parliaments.

“I want to once again underscore the leadership of our Speaker in the country; he has continued to promote inclusive development. He has introduced reforms that are unprecedented in the history of this country,” she said.

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The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., GCON, has felicitated the Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, CFR, on the occasion of his 64th birthday on Thursday, describing him as a patriotic leader and public administrator.

Speaker Abbas felicitates Gbajabiamila at 64

The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., GCON, has felicitated the Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, CFR, on the occasion of his 64th birthday on Thursday, describing him as a patriotic leader and public administrator.

Speaker Abbas lauded Rt. Hon. Gbajabiamila for his immense contributions to his fatherland across the Executive and Legislative arms of the government.

Before becoming the Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Speaker Abbas recalled Gbajabiamila’s record six-term representation and performance at the House.

The Speaker especially noted how Gbajabiamila rose through the ranks, from Minority Leader, to Majority Leader to becoming Speaker of the 9th House, a feat he said has not been achieved by any other member of the parliament.

Describing Gbajabiamila as a legislative icon, who has left indelible marks in the history of Nigerian Legislature, the Speaker said the Chief of Staff’s patriotic exploits when he served as a parliamentarian are unparalleled.

While noting that he has continued to build on the legacy left behind by Rt. Hon. Gbajabiamila, Speaker Abbas said he shares his predecessor’s passion for parliamentary reforms, institution building, legislative diplomacy, and patriotic legislation.

Speaker Abbas also noted that Gbajabiamila has been one of the major factors in the productive relationship between the 10th National Assembly and the Executive, to the benefit of the country.

The Speaker wished Rt. Hon. Gbajabiamila longevity, sound health and divine wisdom in the execution of his national assignments

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HOUSE NOTES CONCERNS RAISED ON NATIONAL SECURITY, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO COLLECTIVE ACTION

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

HOUSE NOTES CONCERNS RAISED ON NATIONAL SECURITY, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO COLLECTIVE ACTION

Abuja, FCT | Friday, June 19, 2026 – The House of Representatives has taken note of recent statements attributed to its Minority Caucus concerning the security situation in parts of the country and the need for effective national response to evolving threats.

As the People’s House, we recognise that security remains a matter of urgent national concern. The issues raised reflect genuine public anxieties and underscore the need for sustained vigilance, coordinated action, and continued collaboration across all arms of government.

The House reiterates that Nigeria’s security challenges did not emerge overnight and cannot be resolved through isolated interventions. The National Assembly, working with the Executive and security institutions, has continued to strengthen the national security framework through legislation, appropriation, and oversight aimed at improving operational effectiveness, intelligence coordination, troop welfare, and national preparedness.

The House notes ongoing interventions and operational outcomes reported by security agencies across different theatres, including efforts to degrade criminal networks, rescue abducted persons, and stabilise vulnerable communities. While challenges persist in some areas, these outcomes point to steady progress that must be consolidated.

Public discourse on security must remain anchored on a balanced appreciation of context, trends, and historical developments. Nigeria has experienced both severe security setbacks and periods of improvement, and a fair assessment must recognise both realities while focusing on strengthening what works and addressing gaps.

On the matters raised by the Minority Caucus, the House respectfully emphasises that Members of Parliament, irrespective of party affiliation, are not limited to public commentary. We are equipped with constitutionally recognised instruments: Bills, Motions, Committee Oversight, Appropriation Powers, and constituency engagement mechanisms which enable direct participation in shaping national responses and reforms.

In this regard, the House respectfully reminds the Minority Caucus that it remains an integral part of government within the legislative arm of the state. Parliament collectively bears responsibility for lawmaking, oversight, and appropriation, and is therefore jointly accountable for strengthening national security outcomes. The obligation to offer solutions, strengthen institutions, and support effective policy implementation is a shared one, not one divided along caucus lines.

Unlike civil society actors whose primary tools are advocacy and public accountability, legislators operate within the formal decision-making architecture of government. The House therefore encourages all Honourable Members, including those in the Minority Caucus, to continue to deploy these instruments robustly in addressing security concerns. Indeed, many Members across both sides of the aisle have commendably done so through sponsorship of bills, motions of urgent national importance, and active committee engagement with security agencies and policy frameworks.

Constructive parliamentary engagement is most impactful when concern is matched with actionable proposals capable of legislative consideration. Members are therefore encouraged to continue translating public concerns into structured interventions that can be debated and refined within the House.

The House Leader, Rt. Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, CON, stated:

“Security remains a shared national responsibility that transcends political affiliation. Our duty as Parliament is not only to express concern but to ensure such concerns are translated into effective legislative and oversight actions that strengthen national security.”

He further noted:

“The strength of the House lies in its unity of purpose, even amid differing perspectives. Majority or Minority, we are bound by the same constitutional responsibility to the Nigerian people.”

The House acknowledges that security challenges remain deeply felt across communities, including threats to livelihoods, risks in rural areas, and ongoing concerns for vulnerable populations. These realities reinforce the urgency of sustained national engagement and continuous improvement in security operations.

The House also encourages continued constructive engagement from all Members and stakeholders and remains committed to working collaboratively with the Executive Arm, security institutions, subnational governments, and other partners to strengthen national security outcomes.

Ultimately, Nigeria’s security challenges will be overcome not through rhetoric alone, but through sustained investment, institutional discipline, inter-agency coordination, and collective resolve. The House of Representatives remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing these objectives in the national interest.

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The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., GCON, has felicitated the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, as he clocks 51 on Thursday

Speaker Abbas felicitates Finance Minister Oyedele at 51

The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., GCON, has felicitated the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, as he clocks 51 on Thursday.

Speaker Abbas described Oyedele as a wonderful human being, brilliant technocrat, economist, and financial expert who has come to serve Nigeria and add value to the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

The Speaker, in a congratulatory message issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, noted Oyedele’s sterling leadership as Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms in Nigeria, noting that his ability to explain the administration’s tax reforms and convince stakeholders is worthy of applause.

Speaker Abbas, who lauded President Tinubu for welcoming talents and skillful Nigerians like Oyedele into the government, said the tax expert is a huge value addition not just to the administration but to the economy as a whole.

While praying to God that Oyedele succeeds on his national assignment, the Speaker wishes him sound health, strength, and wisdom to drive Nigeria’s economy to prosperity.

After completing the tax policy assignment, President Bola Tinubu nominated Oyedele as Minister of State for Finance to replace Doris Uzoka-Anite. The Senate confirmed the appointment on March 12, while he was sworn in on March 16, 2026.

President Tinubu later, on April 21, 2026, appointed Oyedele as Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy to replace ex-minister, Wale Edun.

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