As the 10th National Assembly resumes plenary, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has outlined a bold legislative agenda focused on electoral reform, national security, and socio-economic development. During Tuesday’s plenary session, Speaker Abbas urged lawmakers to redouble efforts in addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges while reaffirming the House’s commitment to meaningful reform and effective governance.
In his address, Speaker Abbas emphasized that the coming months will be pivotal for the 10th House as it gears up to mark its second anniversary. Central to this legislative phase are the expedited passage of key bills, including the long-awaited Electoral Reform Bill, which he described as “fundamental to strengthening our democratic processes.”
“We must now move decisively to expedite the consideration and passage of critical bills that directly impact Nigerians’ stability, prosperity, and well-being,” he said. “This includes addressing unemployment, poverty alleviation, fiscal reform, healthcare, education, and security.”
Abbas noted that these priorities are designed to reflect the legislative house’s role as the “People’s House,” charged with delivering solutions that improve the quality of life for Nigerians across all regions.
To complement its legislative focus, the House also unveiled a series of public engagement activities. Among them are a Public Policy Dialogue on May 12, a Citizens’ Engagement and Media Roundtable in June, and zonal media engagements in Kaduna and Lagos. Additionally, the House Open Week, slated for July 1–4, aims to foster transparency and deepen the relationship between lawmakers and the electorate.
In a bid to enhance public accountability, Speaker Abbas also announced a Live Media Chat during the anniversary celebrations. “This platform will enable the House leadership to communicate directly with Nigerians, sharing our performance record while receiving unfiltered feedback from citizens,” he stated.
Reaffirming its commitment to digital innovation, Abbas highlighted the enhancement of digital infrastructure within the chamber as a move that will boost legislative efficiency and modernize parliamentary operations.
Reflecting on achievements from the last legislative session, the Speaker pointed to the successful passage of the Tax Reform Bills, which are aimed at simplifying compliance, improving revenue generation, and boosting investment. He also highlighted the House’s prompt action during the political crisis in Rivers State, stressing the House’s commitment to constitutional responsibility.
“In collaboration with the Senate, we will soon establish a high-level Committee on Reconciliation to promote peace and democratic stability in Rivers and other conflict-affected regions,” Abbas said.
However, he expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation during the legislative recess. Speaker Abbas condemned the recent terrorist attacks in Borno and the communal clashes in Plateau, Benue, and Kwara states. “These unjustified killings are deeply troubling. We call for greater investment in intelligence, surveillance, and inter-agency coordination to prevent further bloodshed,” he said.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the affected families and reiterated the House’s readiness to support legislation that strengthens national security architecture.
Looking ahead, Abbas stressed the importance of concluding the constitutional review process being undertaken by the House Committee on Constitution Review. “We aim to achieve consensus and deliver outcomes that truly reflect the will and aspirations of the Nigerian people,” he concluded.
As Nigeria faces mounting socio-political and economic challenges, the resumed plenary of the House of Representatives signals a renewed commitment to enacting reforms that promote stability, inclusivity, and development.