House of Reps Committee Appointments, Votes, and Proceedings, Thursday 27

The Deputy Speaker of the House Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu presiding.

After leading the opening prayer and recitation of the national pledge, the Deputy Speaker approved the votes and proceedings of Wednesday, July 26th, 2023.

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REMARKS BY THE RT. HON. ABBAS TAJUDEEN, PH.D, SPEAKER, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, AT THE PLENARY OF THURSDAY, 27TH JULY, 2023 MARKING THE ANNOUNCEMENT AND FORMAL INAUGURATION OF THE STANDING COMMITTEES OF THE 10th HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Honourable colleagues, fellow citizens and Members of the Press, I am highly honoured to welcome you all to today’s plenary which marks the end of the legislative year in the first session of the 10th Assembly. Today will equally mark the commencement of committee activities in the 10th House of Representatives as we formally unveil and inaugurate the newly constituted Standing Committees of the House for members to begin to respond to the yearnings of our Constituents through the discharge of our Constitutional obligations.

2. The House, since its inauguration on June 13, 2023, has made remarkable progress in solidifying its presence and fulfilling its duties. I understand that Honourable colleagues have gotten their offices and settled in. The House has passed a bill on the provision of palliatives to cushion the impact of fuel subsidy stoppage, and considered a good number of Motions and Bills in the past few weeks.

3.The House has also set up ad-hoc committees to investigate gas flaring and Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) on personnel recruitment and employment racketeering. The House has screened and confirmed the newly appointed Service Chiefs. The Committee on Legislative Agenda is concluding its assignment. All these signify the seriousness we have attached to the confidence the people reposed in us. The inauguration of standing committees today, not only marks the completion of the initial phase of settling down but also underscores our dedication to efficient governance.

4. Pursuant to Section 62 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which empowers us to work through committees, I am glad to inform the House and the general public that the Selection Committee which I chair, has concluded the constitution of Committees for the House. The Selection Committee relied on the capacities, experiences, knowledge, competencies, skills and legislative interests of members in assigning colleagues to different committees. This, we did, to ensure that we have round pegs in round holes. Indeed, we had to cope with the onerous task of assigning members to the different committees on the basis of the criteria listed earlier.
5. Nonetheless, I am not unmindful of the fact that in spite of the painstaking efforts of the Selection Committee in setting up these committees, not everybody will be satisfied in terms of choice of committees. I particularly carry a very heavy burden to appreciate members for their unanimous endorsement of my aspiration to lead this House. However, it is practically impossible to make every member a Committee Chairman or Vice Chairman. But, let me remind you that there are limitless opportunities within the House, and I assure you that we will provide these opportunities for every member desirous of service to so do.
6. While the outcome may not be perfect, favourable and satisfactory to all, I have no doubt that the Selection Committee has done what could be considered to be in the best interest of the House and nation. It is, therefore, proper and fitting, at this juncture, to express my gratitude to members of the Selection Committee for their sacrifices and commitment in the constitution of the committees we are inaugurating today.
7. My dear Colleagues, you would recall that the leadership of the House has consistently assured members of its resolve to be fair to all, irrespective of political leanings and affiliations. There are no grade ‘A’ nor the so called ‘juicy committees’ as some erroneously often think. Every committee of the House enjoys equal status, powers and privileges as mere working groups to discharge the mandate given to us by our constituents.
8. The committee system, aptly described as little legislatures by Woodrow Wilson, plays a crucial role in legislative bodies worldwide. Indeed, it serves as the fulcrum of the Legislature due to its central role in performing the bulk of legislative responsibilities and tasks. This system involves dividing the Legislature into smaller component units or working groups, which aims to enhance efficiency, improve productivity, facilitate legislative oversight of other branches of government, promote citizens’ participation in legislation, and enable detailed scrutiny of legislative instruments such as Bills and Motions.
9. Let me state unequivocally that all members of Committees have equal status and must be carried along as such. Committee Chairmen are only administrative heads who must ensure the involvement of every member in the activities of Committees. The principle of team work should guide our engagements in these committees.
10. Committee Chairmen must ensure that there are functional secretariats for their respective committees. This is very crucial as the House is redefining legislative work at the Committees. All Committees are now required to submit regular reports of their activities to the leadership of the House on a quarterly basis. Investigative hearings, public hearings and reports from oversight functions have to be submitted to the House in plenary for further legislative action. Accordingly, the Committees should draw up their workplans and submit same to the Leadership of the House.
11. Honourable Colleagues, our responsibilities as lawmakers require diligence, probity, transparency, dedication and commitment to national interest. I therefore, charge you to be guided by these principles even as we embark on the oversight of other arms of government. We must see the powers of oversight given to us by the Constitution as a means to promote good governance through compliance to the laws of the land.
12. While urging the legislative Committees to discharge their oversight functions dispassionately, may I solicit the cooperation of the Executive arm in this regard. Separation of powers does not mean separation of government. We are one and the same government with the sole purpose of providing services to the good people of this nation. We remain committed to a harmonious working relationship with the Executive in order to deliver on the mandate of the people. However, we will not fail to bring full legislative powers to bear on recalcitrant MDAs.
13. Dear Colleagues, the ‘Open NASS’ project to which this House is committed, requires that in conducting committees’ assignments, we should involve the citizens at all levels, including regular public hearings, oversight functions, investigative hearings as well as open other channels of engaging with the people at whose command, we are here.
14. In keeping with our desire to build and improve the capacity of members and staff, we have established Parliamentary Friendship Committees to promote engagement, interaction, exchange programmes and peer reviews with parliaments and parliamentary associations across the globe. This will enhance knowledge sharing and improve parliamentary practices and procedures.
15. Owing to the high turnover in the Legislature witnessed in the last general elections and the coming on-board of these new committees, there is an urgent need to build the capacity of Chairmen of Committees and their Deputies to prepare them for the onerous task ahead. It is in this wise that I call on the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) to immediately design a capacity building programme that will equip the leadership of our committees with the requisite knowledge and skill on committee management, oversight function, investigative hearing, public hearings and useful knowledge in this regard.
16. May I, on behalf of the Selection Committee, announce the following Committees and their membership as constituted.
17. As I conclude, let me inform you that the House has developed a Monitoring and Evaluation framework for the performance assessment and review of committees. Accordingly, Committees will be regularly evaluated using the benchmark set out in the evaluation framework. Committees which fail to meet 70% in the evaluation will be reconstituted. In essence, there shall be no room for redundant or non-performing committees. In the light of this therefore, a Committee on Monitoring and Evaluation is one of the Committees being inaugurated today. This Committee is comprised of all the Principal Officers of the House and will be Chaired by my humble self.
18. Honourable Colleagues, by the powers conferred on me by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and our Standing Rules, I hereby inaugurate the standing committees and charge you to be committed to the promotion of peace, order and good governance of our nation.
19. Thank you as I wish you success in the discharge of your various committee assignments.
20. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS:

1. Membership constitution of Ad-Hoc Committees:

I. Membership of the Ad-Hoc Committee on the need to identify and recover public funds seized, forfeited and abandoned in financial institutions and government agencies to improve the current economic challenges in Nigeria was announced, and is to be chaired by Hon. Munachi Aluzie.

II. Membership of the Ad-Hoc Committee on the need to investigate the irregularities and alleged corruption in the Nigerian Energy Security Provider, NNPC Retail Limited and the Acquisition of OVH Energy Marketing was announced, and is to be chaired Hon. Abubakar Nalaraba.

2. The Speaker of the House Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas announced the Chairmen and Deputy Chairmen of Standing Committees of the 10th House of Representatives. Rt. Hon. Abbas, while inaugurating the Committees called on the Chairmen/Deputy Chairmen of the Committees to carry out their duties with inclusiveness of all members, to be thorough and ensure good governance for the benefit of Nigerians who they represent.

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PETITIONS:

1. Hon. Usman Balami laid a petition on behalf of a complainant who was alleged to have been unlawfully dismissed from the Nigerian Army. He called on the House to help in resolving the issue.
2. Hon. Sam Atu laid a petition on behalf of a complainant on the issue of multiple assassination and selfless killings in some communities in Enugu state.
3. Hon. Peter Akpanke laid a petition on behalf of some complainants against the management of the university of Calabar over the alleged withdrawal of about 638 students.

The petitions were referred to the House Committee on Public Petitions when constituted.

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MATTERS OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE:

1. Hon. Emeka Nnamani moved a motion on the alleged murder of some policemen by hoodlums who attacked the convoy of the commissioner for trade, commerce and industries in Aba, and it was seconded by Hon. Ginger Onwusibe. Hon. Emeka in leading the debate stated that the trend of these attacks have become a reoccurring decimal and called for more security presence in the region.

He bemoaned the frequent attacks on famous individuals and in all these, the policemen are the worst for it, with many officers losing their lives. Hon. Nnamani called on the Inspector General of police to ensure more security presence within the flash points. He also called on the security officials to adopt more proactive measures in relating with the community members in order prevent clashes, so that peace can be restored to the region. The motion was voted on and adopted.

2. Hon. Okpolupm Etteh moved a motion on the ongoing flood ravaging some communities in Akwa Ibom, and it was seconded by Hon. Mohammed Muktar. Hon. Etteh in leading the debate called on the Ministry on Environment, Niger Delta Affairs as well as the NNDC to proffer solutions to the flood.

He also called on the Ministry of Emergency and Disaster Preparedness to provide relief to the affected communities and that the relevant Committees of the House when constituted should ensure compliance. The motion was voted on and adopted.

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MATTERS OF PERSONAL EXPLANATION:

1. Hon. Olumide Osoba stood on a matter of personal explanation on a motion he had earlier moved about the need to ensure the Nigerian female national football team (the Super Falcons) to be financially empowered to go to the World Cup and avert their planned strike due to unpaid wages. He expressed joy at the news that the Super Falcons have just beaten the host nation, Australia.
2. The Leader of the House, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere called for the need to condemn the military coup in the Republic of Niger, and it was seconded by Hon. Sada Soli. He stressed the disapproval of President Bola Tinubu who is the Chairman of the ECOWAS Heads of Governments.

The House therefore called on the ECOWAS and the commity of nations to strongly condemn the coup and speedily ensure the return to democracy in Niger. The Deputy Speaker of the House Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu stressed that the House of Representatives always stands on the side of true democracy.

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PRESENTATION OF BILLS (First Batch):

1. Federal Roads Authority Bill, 2023 (HB.288) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
2. National Roads Fund Bill, 2023(HB.305) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
3. National Transport Commission Bill, 2023 (HB.306) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
4. Nigeria Railway Bill, 2023 (HB.307)​(Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
5. Federal University of Agriculture, Mpu Bill, 2023 (HB.308) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
6. Nigerian Peace Corps (Establishment) Bill, 2023(HB.309) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
7. National Postgraduate College of Medical Laboratory Science (Establishment) Bill, 2023(HB.310) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
8. Armed Forces Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023(HB.311) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
9. Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023(HB.312) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
10. Nigeria Police Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023(HB.313) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
11. ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons, their Ammunition and other Related Materials (Ratification and Enforcement) Bill, 2023(HB.314) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
12. Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023​(HB.315) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
13. Corrupt Practices and other related Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2023(HB.316) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
14. Psychiatric Hospitals Management Board (Amendment) Bill, 2023(HB.317) (Hon. Dumnamene Dekor) – First Reading.
15. National Institute for Sports Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023(HB.318) (Hon. Dumnamene Dekor) – First Reading.
16. Court of Appeal Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023(HB.319) (Hon. Babajimi Benson) – First Reading.
17. Estate Surveyors and Valuers (Registration, etc) Act. (Amendment), 2023(HB.320) (Hon. Akintunde Rotimi) – First Reading.
18. Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board Act (Amendment) 2023 (HB.321) (Hon. Akintunde Rotimi) – First Reading.
19. Professional Bodies (Special Provision) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.322) (Hon. Akintunde Rotimi) – First Reading.
20. Federal College of Agriculture, Orhionmwon / Uhunmwode, Edo State Bill, 2023 (HB.323) (Hon. Billy Osawaru) – First Reading.
21. Nigerian Association of Paralegals (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.324) (Hon. Paschal Agbodike) – First Reading.
22. Public Procurement Practitioners Council of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.325) (Hon. Paschal Agbodike) – First Reading.
23. Food Vendors (Registration) Council of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.326) (Hon. Paschal Agbodike) – First Reading.
24. Federal College of Nursing and Midwifery, Mbosi, Anambra State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.327) (Hon. Paschal Agbodike) – First Reading.
25. Federal College of Aviation Technology, Ihala, Anambra State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.328) (Hon. Paschal Agbodike) – First Reading.
26. National Institute for Vocational and Technical Education, Uli, Anambra State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.329)​(Hon. Paschal Agbodike) – First Reading.
27. Federal College of Agriculture, Abi, Cross River State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.330) (Hon. Alex Egbona) – First Reading.
28. Explosives Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.331) (Hon. Whingan Sesi Oluwaseun) – First Reading.
29. Internet Child Pornography Prevention Bill (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.332) (Hon. Whingan Sesi Oluwaseun) – First Reading.
30. Palm Oil Development Bill (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.333) (Hon. Whingan Sesi Oluwaseun) – First Reading.
31. Agriculture (control of Importation Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.334) (Hon. Whingan Sesi Oluwaseun) – First Reading.
32. Trade Union Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.335) (Hon. Whingan Sesi Oluwaseun) – First Reading.
33. Chartered Institute of Financial and Investment Analyst of Nigeria Bill (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.336) (Hon. Whingan Sesi Oluwaseun) – First Reading.
34. National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.337) (Hon. Whingan Sesi Oluwaseun) – First Reading.
35. Cancer Registry Bill (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.338) (Hon. Whingan Sesi Oluwaseun) – First Reading.
36. Estate Surveyor and Valuers (Registration, etc. (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.339) (Hon. Whingan Sesi Oluwaseun) – First Reading.
37. Environmental Health Bill (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.340) (Hon. Whingan Sesi Oluwaseun) – First Reading.
38. Oil and Gas Investment & Free Zone Bill (Repeal and Enact) Bill, 2023 (HB.341) (Hon. Whingan Sesi Oluwaseun) – First Reading.
39. Central Bank of Nigeria Act (Repeal) Bill, 2023 (HB.342) (Hon. Ademorin Kuye) – First Reading.
40. Administration of Criminal Justice Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.343) (Hon. Miriam Onuoha) – First Reading.
41. Payment of Judgement Debt by Federal Government (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.344) (Hon. Miriam Onuoha) – First Reading.
42. Pharmaceutical Technologist and Pharmacy Technician Council of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.345)​(Hon. Sani Madaki) – First Reading.
43. Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Management of Nigeria Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.346) (Hon. Sani Madaki) – First Reading.
44. Dave Umahi Federal University of Medical Sciences, Uburu, Ebonyi State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.347) (Hon. Chinedu Ogah) – First Reading.
45. Federal Medical Centre Obukpa, Bill, 2023 (HB.348) (Hon. Mark Obetta) – First Reading.
46. Federal Medical Centre, Atan – Ota (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.349) (Hon. Olatunji Akinosi) – First Reading.
47. Federal University of Technology, Atan – Ota (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.350) (Hon. Olatunji Akinosi) – First Reading.
48. Tertiary Hospitals Development Tax Fund (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.351) (Hon. Olatunji Akinosi) – First Reading.
49. Nigerian Heroes Welfare Agency (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.352) (Hon. Ademorin Kuye) – First Reading
50. National Institute for Creative and Performing Arts, Ikate Surulere, Lagos State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.353)​(Hon. Lanre Okunlola) – First Reading.
51. National Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation Itire, Lagos State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.354) (Hon. Lanre Okunlola) – First Reading.
52. Federal College of Education, Ijesha, Lagos State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.355) (Hon. Lanre Okunlola) – First Reading.
53. National Sport Development Fund (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.356) (Hon. Lanre Okunlola) – First Reading.
54. National Children Entrepreneur Training (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.357)​ (Hon. Lanre Okunlola) – First Reading.
55. Nigerian Rural Health Care Trust Fund (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.358) (Hon. Lanre Okunlola) – First Reading.
56. National Institute for Technical and Vocational Education, Minijibir, Kano State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.359)​(Hon. Adamu Sani Wakil) – First Reading.
57. Federal College of Nursing and Midwifery, Ungogo, Kano Sate (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.360) (Hon. Adamu Sani Wakil) – First Reading.
58. Federal Capital Territory Customary Court Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.361) (Hon. Aminu Balele) – First Reading.
59. Petroleum Training Institute Ibeno, Akwa Ibom State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.362) (Hon. Okpolupm Etteh) – First Reading.
60. Federal College of Nursing and Midwifery Eket, Akwa Ibom State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.363) (Hon. Okpolupm Etteh) – First Reading.
61. Federal College of Education (Technical) Akpet, Cross River State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.364) (Hon. Emil Inyang) – First Reading.
62. Federal College of Agriculture and Forestry Oban – Akamkpa, Cross River State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.365) (Hon. Emil Inyang) – First Reading.
63. Federal College of Nursing and Midwifery Akpet, Cross River State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.366) (Hon. Emil Inyang) – First Reading.
64. National Mathematical Centre, (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.367) (Hon. Matthew Nwogu) – First Reading.
65. Joint Admission and Matriculation Board Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.368)​(Hon. Matthew Nwogu) – First Reading.

Second Batch:

1. Federal University of Agriculture, Ibadan, Oyo State (Establishment) 2023(HB. 369) (Hon. Adedeji Stanley Olajide) – First Reading.
2. National Interstate Mass Transit (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.370) (Hon. Adedeji Stanley Olajide) – First Reading.
3. Fiscal Responsibility Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.371) (Hon. Austin Asema Achado) – First Reading.
4. Births, Death, etc (Compulsory Registration) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.372) (Hon. Austin Asema Achado) – First Reading.
5. National Film and Video Censors Board Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.373) (Hon. Austin Asema Achado) – First Reading.
6. National Directorate of Employment Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.374) (Hon. Austin Asema Achado) – First Reading.
7. Nigeria Army Institute of Military Engineering, Makurdi, (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.375) (Hon. Austin Asema Achado) – First Reading.
8. Nigeria Army Institute of Technology and Environmental Studies, Makurdi (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.376) (Hon. Austin Asema Achado) – First Reading.
9. Federal Artificial Intelligence Institute (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 377) (Hon. Austin Asema Achado) – First Reading.
10. Federal Capital Territory Abuja Area Courts Bill, 2023 (HB.378) (Hon. Aminu Balele) – First Reading
    Trade Dispute Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.379) (Hon. Rabiu Yusuf) – First Reading.
11. Recovery of Public Property (Special Provisions) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.380) (Hon. Rabiu Yusuf) – First Reading.
12. Ports (related Offences) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.381) (Hon. Rabiu Yusuf) – First Reading.
13. Counterfeit and Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.382) (Hon. Rabiu Yusuf) – First Reading.
14. Tribunals of Inquiry Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 383) (Hon. Rabiu Yusuf) – First Reading.
15. Public Holiday Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023(Hb.384) (Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi) – First Reading.
16. Naval Training Command Institutes (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 385) (Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi)
17. Environmental Impact Assessment Bill, 2023 (HB. 386) (Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi) – First Reading.
18. Regional Centre for Oral Health Research and Training Initiatives (Establishment, etc.) Bill, 2023 (HB. 387) (Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi) – First Reading.
19. National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru Bill, 2023 (HB. 388) (Hon. Yusuf Amadu Gagdi) – First Reading.
20. Commodity and Grain Board (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 389) (Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi) – First Reading.
21. FCT University of Science and Technology (Establishment, etc.), Abaji Bill, 2023 (HB. 390) (Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi) – First Reading.
22. National Commission for Colleges of Agriculture, Bill, 2023 (HB. 391) (Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi) – First Reading.
23. Nigeria Co-Operative Societies (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 392) (Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi) – First Reading.
24. Emergency Powers (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 393) (Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi) – First Reading.
25. Nuclear Safety, Security and Safeguards Bill, 2023 (HB. 394) (Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi) – First Reading.
26. National Inland Waterways Authority 2023 (HB. 395) (Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi) – First Reading.
27. National Board for Technical Education Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 396) (Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi) – First Reading.
28. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2023 (HB. 397) (Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi) – First Reading.
29. National Commission for Colleges of Education Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 398) (Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi) – First Reading.
30. Rice Development Council Bill, 2023 (HB. 399) (Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi) – First Reading.
31. National Universities Commission Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 400) (Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi) – First Reading.
32. Widowhood Leave Bill, 2023 (HB. 401) (Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi) – First Reading.
33. National Commission for Polytechnics (NCP) Bill, 2023 (HB. 402) (Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi) – First Reading.
34. Federal College of Agriculture Katcha, Niger State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 403) (Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi) – First Reading.
35. South East Development Commission (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 404) (Hon. Ikeagwuonu Onyinye Ugochinyere) – First Reading.
36. Civil Aviation Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023(HB. 405) (Hon. Muktar Umar Zakari) – First Reading.
37. National Directorate of Employment Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023(HB. 406) (Hon. Muktar Umar Zakari) – First Reading.
38. Arbitration and Conciliation Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 407) (Hon. Mohammed Bello El-Rufai) – First Reading.
39. Child’s Right Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 408) (Hon. Mohammed Bello El-Rufai) – First Reading.
40. National Polytechnics Regulatory Commission (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 409) (Hon. Agbedi, Yeitiemone Fredrick) – First Reading.
41. Federal Institute of Vocational and Technical Education Calabar, Cross Rivers Bill, 2023 (HB. 410) (Hon. Joseph Bassey) – First Reading.
42. National Polytechnics Regulatory Commission (Establishmen) Bill, 2023 (HB. 411) (Hon. Agbedi, Yeitiemone Fredrick) – First Reading.
43. Monitoring and Control of Instruments Bill, 2023 (HB. 412) (Hon. Agbedi, Yeitiemone Fredrick) – First Reading.
44. Chartered Institute Of Cost Managers of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 413) (Hon. Agbedi, Yeitiemone Fredrick) – First Reading.
45. National Board for Technical Education Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 414) (Hon. Agbedi, Yeitiemone Fredrick) – First Reading.
46. Niger Delta Development Commission (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 415) (Hon. Agbedi, Yeitiemone Fredrick) – First Reading.
47. Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers Bill, 2023 (HB. 416) (Hon. Isaac kyale kwallu) – First Reading.
48. Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Directorate of Road Traffic and Motor Vehicle Administration Service (DRTMVAS) Bill, 2023 (HB. 417) (Hon. Isaac Kyale Kwallu) – First Reading.
49. Federal Capital Territory Health Insurance Agency (Establishment) Bill, 2023(HB. 418) (Hon. Isaac kyale kwallu) – First Reading.
50. Public Procurement Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 419) (Hon. Isaac Kyale Kwallu) – First Reading.
51. National Business and Technical Examinations Board Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 420) (Hon. Julius Ihonvere) – First Reading.
52. National Examination Council (NECO) (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 421) (Hon. Julius Ihonvere) – First Reading.
53. Federal University of Land Resources Technology Rabah, Sokoto State Bill, 2023 (HB. 422) (Hon. Ibrahim Almustapha Aliyu) – First Reading.
54. National Rice Production, Processing and Research Institute Argungu, Kebbi State Bill, 2023 (HB. 423) (Hon. Ibrahim Almustapha Aliyu) – First Reading.
55. National Cotton Production, Processing and Research Institute Talatar Mafara Zamfara State Bill, 2023(HB. 424) (Hon. Ibrahim Almustapha Aliyu) – First Reading.
56. National Groundnut Production, Processing and Research Institute Wurno Sokoto State Bill, 2023(HB. 425) (Hon. Ibrahim Almustapha Aliyu) – First Reading.
57. Federal College Of Education, Amaigbo Bill, 2023 (HB. 426) (Hon. Ugonna Ozurigbo) – First Reading.
58. Compulsory, Free Universal Basic Education Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.427) (Hon. Ugonna Ozurigbo) – First Reading.
59. EFCC Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.428) (Hon. Ugonna Ozurigbo) – First Reading.
60. Companies and Allied Matters Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 429) (Hon. Ugonna Ozurigbo) – First Reading.
61. Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.430) (Hon. Ugonna Ozurigbo) – First Reading.
62. Oil and Gas Investment and Free Zones Bill, 2023 (HB.431) (Hon. Zakaria Dauda Nyampa) – First Reading.
63. Harmful Waste (Special Criminal Provisions, Etc) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 432) (Hon. Zakaria Dauda Nyampa) – First Reading.
64. National Directorate of Employment Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 433) (Hon. Zakaria Dauda Nyampa) – First Reading.
65. Institute Of Chartered Accountants in Nigeria Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 434) (Hon. Zakaria Dauda Nyampa) – First Reading.
66. Institute Of Safety Professionals of Nigeria Act (Amendment) (HB. 435) (Hon. Zakaria Dauda Nyampa) – First Reading.
67. Federal College of Agriculture Produce Technology, Kano State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 436) (Hon. Rabiu Yusuf) – First Reading.
68. Federal Institute of Fisheries Research (Establishment) Tafawa Balewa, Bauchi State Bill, 2023 (HB. 437) (Hon. Rabiu Yusuf) – First Reading.
69. Upgrade Technical School Ile Ode, Ile Ife to federal College of Education (Technical) Ile-Ife, Osun State, 2023 (HB.438)(Hon. Ajilesoro Abimbola Taofeek) – First Reading.
70. Contamination Centre, (Establishment) Bill, 2023(HB.439) (Hon. Ajilesoro Abimbola Taofeek) – First Reading.
71. Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (440) (Hon. Ajilesoro Abimbola Taofeek) – First Reading.
72. Nigeria Utilities Charges Commission Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023(HB. 441) (Hon. Ajilesoro Abimbola Taofeek) – First Reading.
73. Industrial Training Fund Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023(HB.442) (Hon. Ajilesoro Abimbola Taofeek) – First Reading.
74. National Industrial Centre (Establishment) Bill, 2023(HB.443) (Hon. Ajilesoro Abimbola Taofeek) – First Reading.
75. Anti – Torture Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.444) (Hon. Miriam Onuoha) – First Reading.
76. Electricity Act (amendment) Bill, 2023(HB.445) (Hon. Miriam Onuoha) – First Reading.
77. Insurance Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 446) (Hon. Miriam Onuoha) – First Reading.
78. National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023(HB.447) (Hon. Miriam Onuoha) – First Reading.
79. Banks and other Financial Institutions Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.448) (Hon. Miriam Onuoha) – First Reading.
80. Project Development Agency (Establishment) Bill, 2023(HB.449) (Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos) – First Reading.
81. Notories Public (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 450) (Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos) – First Reading.
82. Nigeria Shippers Council Act (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2023(HB.451) (Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos) – First Reading.
83. Carriage of Good by Land (Road and Rail) 2023(HB.452) (Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos) – First Reading.
84. National Research Institute for Chemical Technology (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.453) (Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos) – First Reading.
85. Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.454) (Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos) – First Reading.
86. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 Act (Alteration) Bill, 2023 (HB.455) (Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos) – First Reading.
87. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 Act (Alteration) Bill, 2023 (HB.456) (Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos) – First Reading.
88. Nigerian Postal Service Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023(HB.457) (Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos) – First Reading.
89. Nigerian Ports Authority Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.458) (Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos) – First Reading.
90. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 Act (Alteration) Bill, 2023(HB.459) (Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos) – First Reading.
91. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 Act (Alteration) Bill, 2023(HB.460) (Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos) – First Reading.
92. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 Act (Alteration) Bill, 2023(HB.461) (Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos) – First Reading.
93. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 Act (Alteration) Bill, 2023(HB.462) (Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos) – First Reading.
94. Immigration Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023(HB.463) (Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos) – First Reading.
95. National Institute for Nigerian languages Act (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2023(HB.464) (Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos) – First Reading.
96. Federal College of Land Resources Technology, Owerri (Establishment) Bill, 2023(HB.465) (Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos) – First Reading.
97. Education (National Minimum Standards and Establishment of Institutions) Act (Amendment), 2023(HB.466) (Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos) – First Reading.
98. Reversion of Forfeited Assets (Regulation) Bill, 2023(HB.467) (Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos) – First Reading.
99. National Broadcasting Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2023(HB.468) (Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos) – First Reading.
100. Federal Road Safety Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.469) (Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos) – First Reading.
101. National Film and Video Censors Board Act (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2023 (Hon. Sani Aliyu Madaki) (HB.470) – First Reading.

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ORDERS OF THE DAY:

MOTIONS:

1. Reconsideration of Outstanding Bills from the Preceding Assembly.

Reconsideration of Outstanding Bills from the Preceding Assembly:

Hon. Julius Ihonvere:

(i) Federal College of Nursing and Midwifery Otu-Jeremi, Delta State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.221);
(ii) Broadcasting Practitioners’ Council of Nigeria Bill, 2023(HB.247) ;
(iii) African Union Development Agency Bill, 2023(HB.271);
(iv) African Union Convention for the Protection and Assistance of Internally Displaced Persons in Nigeria Bill, 2023(HB.272);
(v) National Commission for Museum and Monuments (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2023(HB. 274);
(vi) Alex Ekwueme Federal Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki (Establishment) Bill, 2023(HB. 281);
(vii) Satellite Towns Development Agency Bill, 2023(HB.290); and
(viii) Federal College of Education, Omu Aran Kwara State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 185).

The House:

Notes that pursuant to Order Twelve, Rule 16 of the Standing Orders of the House, Bills passed by the preceding Assembly and forwarded to the Senate for concurrence for which no concurrence was made or negatived or passed by the Senate and forwarded to the House for which no concurrence was made or negatived or which were passed by the National Assembly and forwarded to the President for assent but for which assent or withholding thereof was not communicated before the end of the tenure of theAssembly, the House may resolve that such Bill, upon being re-gazetted or clean copies circulated, be reconsidered in the Committee of the Whole without being commenced de-novo;

Also notes that the aforementioned Bills were passed by the preceding Assembly and forwarded to the President for assent but for which assent or withholding thereof was not communicated before the end of the tenure of the last Assembly;

Aware that the Bills were re-gazetted as HBs. 221, 247, 271, 272, 274, 281, 290 and 185 read the first time, respectively;

Resolves to:

Commit the Bills to the Committee of the Whole for consideration.

Debate:

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere moved the motion on reconsideration of outstanding Bills from the preceding Assembly, and it was seconded by Hon. Abdullahi Halims. The motion was voted on, adopted and the Bills were referred to the committee of the Whole.

2. Reconsideration of Outstanding Bills from the Preceding Assembly. Hon. Julius Ihonvere:

(i) Commercial Commuters Protection Bill, 2023 (HB. 220);

(ii) Chartered Institute of Agribusiness of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 138);

(iii) Chartered Institute of Forensic of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2023(HB. 140);

(iv) Federal College of Horticulture, Okigwe (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.171);

(v) Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023(HB.172);

(vi) Federal College of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Sciences Bill, 2023(HB.173);

(vii) National Centre for Ear, Nose and Throat Disease (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.182);and

(viii) Nigerian Peace Corps (Establishment) Bill, 2023(HB.309);

(ix) Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers Bill, 2023 (HB. 416);

(x) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Directorate of Road Traffic and Motor Vehicle Administration Service (DRTMVAS) Bill, 2023 (HB. 417);

(xi) Federal Capital Territory Health Insurance Agency (Establishment) Bill, 2023(HB. 418) ; and

(xii) Public Procurement Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 419).

The House:

Notes that pursuant to Order Twelve, Rule 16 of the Standing Orders of the House, Bills passed by the preceding Assembly and forwarded to the Senate for concurrence for which no concurrence was made or negatived or passed by the Senate and forwarded to the House for which no concurrence was made or negatived or which were passed by the National Assembly and forwarded to the President for assent but for which assent or withholding thereof was not communicated before the end of the tenure of theAssembly, the House may resolve that such Bill, upon being re-gazetted or clean copies circulated, be reconsidered in the Committee of the Whole without being commenced de-novo;

Also notes that the aforementioned Bills were passed by the preceding Assembly and forwarded to the President for assent but for which assent or withholding thereof was not communicated before the end of the tenure of the last Assembly;

Aware that the Bills were re-gazetted as HBs. 220, 138, 140, 171, 172, 173, 182 and 309 read the first time, respectively;

Resolves to:

Commit the Bills to the Committee of the Whole for consideration.

Debate:

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere moved the motion on reconsideration of outstanding Bills from the preceding Assembly, and it was seconded by Hon. Famous Osawaru. The motion was voted on, adopted and the Bills were referred to the Committee of the Whole.

3. Need to Rehabilitate Emere – Okaba – Adoka Road to Ayangba-Ankpa-Otukpa Road- and Complete the Abandoned Ankpa – Onyagede Road in Kogi State.

Hon. Abdullahi Ibrahim Halims:

The House:

Notes that Emere – Okaba – Adoka Road, Ayangba-Ankpa-Otukpa roads in Kogi State are Federal Roads and are major roads linking Kogi, Benue to the North Central and Southern States of the country;

Also notes that the Ankpa – Onyagede road is a major road which connects Kogi State to the Northern and Southern States of Nigeria traversing four constituencies in Kogi, Benue and Nasarawa States through which farmers and traders transport goods and, services;

Aware that approximately N33million for the general maintenance of Ayangba-Ankpa- Benue border (Otukpa) roads was included the 2023 budget under Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA);

Worried that a portion of the Emere – Okaba – Adoka road in Kogi State is seriously damaged as a result of gully erosion and now a death trap, a den of Kidnappers leading to loss of lives, goods and services worth millions of Naira;

Cognizant that if the Emere-Okaba-Adoka road is not urgently rehabilitated it will cut off connectivity in the affected areas and by extension parts of the North Central and Southern States of the country;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing through the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to rehabilitate the affected portion of the Emere – Okaba – Adoka road in Kogi State to avoid further loss of lives and properties;

(ii) also urge the Ecological Fund Officeto remedy the ecological challenge posed by the gully erosion on the Emere – Okaba – Adoka road and also ensure the provision of Fund in the 2024 Budget estimateto comprehensively solve the Ecological challenge of the road in Kogi State;

(iii) also urge the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing to include the Construction of the abandoned Ankpa – Onyagede road and the rehabilitation of the dilapidated 100km Emere – Okaba – Adoka road in the 2024 Budget estimates;

(iv) again urge the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing to make provision for the general maintenance of Ayangba- Ankpa-Otukpa roads in the 2023 to 2024 Budget estimates; and

(v) mandate the Committees on Works, Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) and Ecological Fund to ensure compliance.

Debate:

Hon. Abdullahi Halims moved the motion on the need to rehabilitate Emere – Okaba – Adoka road to Ayangba-Ankpa-Otukpa road- and complete the abandoned Ankpa – Onyagede road in Kogi state and it was seconded by Hon. Philip Agbese. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on Works, FERMA as well as that on Ecological Fund once constituted.

4. Need to Rehabilitate the Electricity Installations along Hadejia-Yalo Unguwan Jibrin Kaugama/Malam Madori Federal Constituency of Kaugama Local Government Area.

Hon. Makki Abubakar Yalleman:

The House:

Notes that the deteriorating state of the Electricity installations resulted in significant hardships for residents and businesses in the affected area, undermining economic development and the overall well-being of the Kaugama/Malam Madori Federal Constituency;

Also notes that Hadejia-Yalo to Unguwan Jibrin is an important condor in serving as a critical route and home to a significant number of residents of the area;

Concerned that the lack of reliable electricity supply along this stretch has hindered progress and development in the area. The existing electricity infrastructure is outdated and has been reduced to rubble, hence the need for rehabilitation to meet the growing demands of the population;

Also concerned that the unreliable of power supply has a detrimental effect on education and health care services, Educational institutions struggle to provide a conducive learning environment due to inadequate lighting and the inability to power essential equipment. Students’ academic performance are compromised, and the overall quality of education suffers.

Observe that the healthcare facilities face challenges in the delivery of critical medical services, including refrigeration of vaccines, operation of medical equipment, and providing round-the-clock care to patients;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Ministry of Power and Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to, as a matter of urgency, ensure timely rehabilitation of the electricity installations along Hadejia-Yalo- Unguwan Jibrin of Kaugama local government of Jigawa state;
(ii) also ensure the Electricity Distribution Companies access the feasibility of extending the power grid and improving distribution networks in the constituency; and
(iii) mandate the committee on power (when constituted) to ensure compliance.

Debate:

Hon. Abubakar Yalleman moved the motion on the need to rehabilitate the electricity installations along Hadejia-Yalo Unguwan Jibrin Kaugama/Malam Madori federal constituency of Kaugama local government area, and it was seconded by Hon. Maureen Chinwe. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Power once constituted.

5. Need to Investigate the Irregularities and Alleged Corruption in the Nigerian Energy Security Provider, NNPC Retail Limited and the Acquisition of OVH Energy Marketing.

Hon. Miriam Onuoha​​​, Hon. Dabo Ismal Haruna​, Hon. Mark Chidi Obeto,
Hon. Abdullahi Aliyu​​​, Hon. Sadiq Ango​​, Hon. Aliyu Gara and Hon. Clement Akan:

The House:

Notes that the NNPC Retail is a subsidiary of NNPC Limited saddled with the responsibility of retailing fuel and allied products to the Nigerian populace, with about 700 company-owned stations and affiliates across all states;

Aware that the recent enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act, NNPC Limited was commercialized and expected to fund its operations. To achieve this feat, NNPC Limited deployed a plan to grow the assets of NNPC Retail Limited (NRL) which included the acquisition of other downstream companies;

Also aware that on October 1, 2022, NNPC Limited announced the outright acquisition of OVH Energy (OVH) and Apapa SPM Limited (an affiliate of OVH Energy) to strengthen its downstream business portfolio, enhance profitability and guarantee national energy security;

Concerned that before the acquisition, OVH Energy claimed to have about 380 company-owned stations, a jetty (ASPM) WITH240, 000 MT, Eight (8) LPG plants, three (3) Lubricants blending plants, three (3) aviation and fuel depots and twelve (12) warehouses whereas they had owned only 72 stations as others were leased or owned by third parties, all 8 LPG plants were leased, 12 lubricant warehouses listed were leased;

Also concerned that the lopsided appointment of the Management Team and staff of NNPC Retail Limited made up of about 75% of OVH staff, the appointment of an expatriate, a former MD of OVH as Managing Director ahead of many qualified Nigerians, and the immediate relocation of the NNPC Retail headquarters and NRL staff to Lagos where OVH is headquarter raises doubt as to whether NNPC Limited acquired OVH Energy or the reverse;

Cognizant that in every acquisition, if a firm buys more than 50 per cent of a target company’s shares, it effectively gains control of that company but in this case, it appears that the NNPC has taken over OVH Energy but in operational terms, it is OVH Energy that has taken over the affairs of NNPC Retail;

Also cognizant of the need to ensure transparency by addressing these irregularities and nefarious activities to take over the NNPC Retail by interested parties at a critical time in the Nigerian energy sector given the overhaul of the petroleum laws, the removal of fuel subsidy and in particular the deliberate efforts to curb corruption in the energy sector;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the NNPC Limited to immediately suspend the acquisition of OVH Energy Marketing and proposed relocation of the NNPC Retail Head office from Abuja to Lagos pending the outcome of the investigation; and

(ii) setup an Ad-hoc committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the acquisition of OVH Energy by the NNPC Limited and report back within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.

Debate:

Hon. Miriam Onuoha moved the motion on the need to investigate the irregularities and alleged corruption in the Nigerian Energy Security Provider, NNPC Retail Limited and the Acquisition of OVH Energy Marketing, and it was seconded by Hon. Tijani Ismail. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the proposed Ad-Hoc committee once constituted.

6. Need to Identify and Recover Public Funds Seized, Forfeited and Abandoned in Financial Institutions and Government Agencies to Improve the Current Economic Challenges In Nigeria.

Hon. Dachung M. Bagos:

The House:

Notes that the Proceeds of Crime Act was enacted to provide for an effective legal and institutional framework for the recovery and management of the proceeds of crime, strengthen criminal confiscation procedure, and collaborate among the relevant organizations in tracing properties reasonably suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities;

Also notes that under Section 69 of the aforesaid states that all recovered Monies, as well as proceeds from the sale of confiscated assets, shall be paid into the Central Bank of Nigeria as Confiscated and Forfeited Properties Account for the Federation;

Aware that CBN grant permission to Money Transfer Service Operations (MTSO) for both inbound and outbound transfers and that sometimes monies are trapped in the coffers of the CBN and other financial institutions;

Observes that despite having at least 12 institutions and agencies responsible for tackling illicit financial flow (IFF) and related crimes, Nigeria continues to be menaced by weak regulatory structures and complicity of other financial secrecy, among others;

Concerned that all recovered Funds from the investigation of the Federal Government Agencies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), Funds recovered through whistle Blowing, all funds seized by CBN, funds left by deceased bank customers, funds trapped in banks, forfeiture, exhibits, proceed of frauds terrorism, drugs, etc, are stacked in places not known and are not accounted for to the Public;

Also concerned that while the National Assembly has made considerable efforts by making enactments such as the Proceeds of Crime Act which has introduced some laudable provisions to realign the fight against corruption and financial crimes with International best practices, the lack of enforcement has rendered these efforts futile;

Resolves to:

Constitute an Ad-hoc Committee to appraise the Federal Government’s current policy framework, to ascertain-
(a)​who authorized the seizures?
(b)​who keeps the seized funds and for what duration, and

(c)​ demand for the statement of account for a period covering ten (10) years and proffer measures to curb revenue losses and identify and analyze all funds trapped in other banks and funds recovered so far by CBN, EFCC,NFIU and other Agencies and report back within 4 weeks.

Debate:

Hon. Dachung Bagos moved the motion on the need to identify and recover public funds seized, forfeited and abandoned in financial institutions and government agencies to improve the current economic challenges in Nigeria, and it was seconded by Hon. Peter Ibrahim.

Hon. Clement Jumbo proposed an amendment to prayer c and called for specification for the duration of the years to be investigated to read from the period of 2013 till date. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the proposed Ad-Hoc Committee once constituted.

7. Need to Protect Hapless Nigerians from Discrimination by (Foreign Nationals) Employees.

Hon. Anthony Adebayo Adepoju:

The House:

Notes that the Federal Government desire to boost the growth of the Nigerian economy has embarked on the policy of ease – of doing business with its concomitant invitation and acceptance of direct foreign investments into the Country;

Also notes that the Sterling Policy of the Government has opened a floodgate of foreigners into the country, some are embarking on policies and actions that are anti-people and in flagrant disobedience of our laws;

Concerned that the majority of foreigners who are involved in these unwholesome practices are Chinese and Lebanese nationals engaged in either construction industries or retailing businesses;

Also concerned that the above-stated nationals are employing Nigerians on an Ad-hoc basis with no conditions of service, nor any welfare or medical services, thereby violating the rights of their workers and the labour laws of the country;

Recalls that on 20 June, 2023, the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) picketed a Chinese construction company, Shaanki Construction Company at their site at New ECOW AS Secretariat, Airport Road, Lugbe, Abuja, over allegations of inhuman treatment and casualisation of its workers. The company’s obnoxious policies led to the death of one of its drivers, Mr A. Augustine, with no care, empathy or sympathy from the management of the company;

Also recalls that by the real-life apartheid racist system practiced by a Lebanese company known as Fouani Nigeria Limited, a retailer of Hisence electronics at Idu Warehouse, Plot 791, Cadastral Zone 10, Idu Industrial Area, Abuja, where privileges between workers/Nigerian customers and a class of people referred to as “whites”, up to and including the use of toilets/conveniences are utterly and strictly compartmentalized and segregated;

Worried that this apparent state of siege, exploitation and dehumanization of Nigerians by foreigners in our country is unacceptable and condemnable as it is nothing but a pullback to the dark era of colonization and slavery;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Federal Government to be more alive to its responsibility and protect Nigerians, especially the masses, from abuse of their constitutional rights as citizens; and

(ii) mandate the Committee on Human Rights (when constituted) to investigate the incidents and report back within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.

Debate:

Hon. Anthony Adepoju moved the motion on the need to protect hapless Nigerians from discrimination by (foreign nationals) employees, and it was seconded by Hon. Bamidele Salam. Hon. Jesse Onuakalusi proposed an amendment to urge the Federal Government through the Miinistry of Interior to insist on expertrate quota on any international company looking to set up shop in Nigeria.

Hon. Adesola Adedayo further proposed an amendment to prayer 2 of the motion to incorporate the House committee on Labor, Employment and Productivity when constituted to be part of the investigation. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House committee on Human Rights as well as that on Labor, Employment and Productivity when constituted.

8. Need To Address Incessant Kidnappings Nings/Warji Federal Constituency, Bauchi State.

Hon Adamu Hashimu Ranga:

The House:

Notes that a high rate of insecurity become the order of the day with rampant cases of kidnapping in various towns and villages within the Ningi/Warji federal constituency in Bauchi state;

Also notes that the Ningi/Warji federal constituency has been endowed with vast agricultural and mineral potentialities which enhance its visibility to attract the participation of Nigerians in managing the natural resources;

Aware that from March 2023 to date, four (4) people including the village head of Balma were kidnapped and released on payment of a ransom sum of thirteen million naira(13M), while 9 PEOPLE were brutally killed. Fifteen (15) people in Tabla, Bukutumbe, katsnawa, Rafinchiyawa and Jimiat various times and released on Twenty-Seven Million Naira (27M) ransom, two people in Sama Ward were released on Six Million (N6M) Ransom, three people in kurmi were released on Eight Million Naira (N8M) Ransom; bringing the total sum to the fifty-four million Naira (N54M) paid as ransom within less than five (5) months;

Worried that while crime is still on the increase with adverse consequences of fatal economic loss, violation of fundamental rights and threat to public safety, especially giving the busy nature of the rainy season, it is sad to inform this Honorable House, of the absence of federal security in response to the disturbing insecurity challenge that has thrown the entire federal constituency into confusion;

Regret that this high rate of insecurity will continue to affect the farming season and all social economic activities, if urgent action is not taken to address the menace;

Resolves to:

(i) Observe one minute silence in honour of the deceased victims;
(ii) urge the Military, Police and office of the National Security adviser to deploy a joint patrol team to address the worsening security situation in the affected areas within the federal constituency; and
(iii) mandate the Committee on National Security and Intelligence (when constituted) to ensure compliance and report back within four(4) weeks

Debate:

Hon. Adamu Ranga moved the motion on the need to address incessant kidnappings in Nings/Warji Federal Constituency, Bauchi State, and it was seconded by Hon. Julius Pondi. The motion was voted on and adopted.

9. Need to Stop the Diversion of Nigeria-Bound Cargoes to Neighbouring Countries and Decongest the Apapa and Tin Can Island Seaports.

Hon. Mark Esset:

The House:

Notes that Nigeria has six major seaports which include the Apapa Port and the Tin Can Island Port in Lagos State, the Calabar Port on Cross River State, the Harcourt Port and the Onne Port in Rivers State, and the Warri Port in Delta State;

Also notes that despite having six seaports in Nigeria, Apapa and Tin-Can Island Ports in Lagos have remained the nation’s major economic gateways while the rest have remained either mostly idle or totally non-functional;

Further notes that due to the in operation of other seaports, the Apapa and Tin Can Ports are currently operating three times above their capacities as they handle over 70 percent of Nigeria-bound import and export goods, thus making it extremely difficult for trucks to clear their goods on time and resulting in loss of man hours and resources;

Concerned that according to reports, as a result of congestion, collapse of quay aprons and poor monitoring system in Nigeria’s Ports, 60 per cent of containers shipped to West and Central Africa destined for Nigerian markets are diverted to ports in Ghana, Togo, Benin Republic and Cote d’Ivoire, causing a yearly revenue loss of about N136 billion;

Also concerned about a recent report by the Lagos State Chamber of Commerce and Industry which revealed that Nigeria loses a whopping N7.6 trillion annually as a result of congestion in the Apapa and Tin Can ports;

Aware that port congestion can lead to scarcity and inflation when there is insufficient supply of specific commodities in the market, and local industries would be forced to either close shop or trim their workforce in order to remain afloat;

Also aware that leading Countries with heavy port activities have rail networks to the ports, which serve as alternative routes to ease the pressure off on the roads to prevent congestion;

Disturbed that unlike in advanced countries where the port corridors are usually reserved and restricted as an exclusive economic environment, Nigeria’s ports are surrounded by residential houses and warehouses, thus contributing to the congestion in the area;

Also disturbed that the country is further bled financially by corrupt port officials who engage in bribery, extortion and other unethical practices in order to enrich themselves;

Cognizant of the need to revive moribund seaports and create more access routes to the Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in order to forestall further loss of revenue as well as boost the country’s economy;

Resolves to:

(i) urge on the Federal Government to rehabilitate the Eastern seaports, construct more deep Sea Ports and decongest Lagos ports in order to encourage more patronage and grow the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP);

(ii) Also urge on the Federal Government to construct dry ports across strategic locations to serve as inland hubs for cargo handling and processing and divert maritime traffic from seaports, thus reducing pressure on seaports and facilitating smoother cargo movement;

(iii) further urge on the Federal Government to set up a joint task force to enforce Port Corridor regulations and ensure that port corridors are restricted to port operations;

(iv) again urge the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing to construct railways as alternative routes to major ports across the country to ease cargo movement and reduce road congestion around the ports;

(V) mandate the Committees on Maritime, Customs, Excise, and Works to investigate the factors hindering the smooth running of Nigeria’s seaports with a view to curbing the diversion of Nigeria-Bound Cargoes to Neighbouring Countries and ensuring that the ports operate effectively to boost the country’s economy, and report back within 4 weeks for further legislative action.

Debate:

Hon. Mark Esset moved the motion on the need to stop the diversion of Nigeria-bound cargoes to neighboring countries and decongest the Apapa and Tin Can Island seaports, and it was seconded by Hon. Sadiq Abdullahi. Hon. Chris Nkwonta proposed an amendment to prayer one calling for the deleting of the “call to construct more seaports” and simply to ensure the existing ones are maximally utilized.

Hon. Bamidele Salam further proposed an amendment to prayer 4 calling on the ministry of Transportation to ensure the construction of the railways and that in prayer 5; the committee on Ports and Harbor should be incorporated to ensure compliance.

Hon. Rabiu Garba proposed an amendment to prayer 2 calling on the federal government to facilitate the functioning of dry ports in strategic locations within the country. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committees on Maritime, Works, Transportation as well as that on Customs and Excise when constituted._____________________________________________________________________________

CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS (HOUSE IN THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE) Hon. Benjamin Kalu chaired:

10. A Bill for an Act to an Act to Amend the Electricity Act, 2023 to Address the concern of Host Communities ad for Related Matters (HB. 38) – Committee of the Whole:20/7/2023.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere stated that the amendment Bill seeks to involve host communities in the contribution to power generation and ensure that these communities, especially those that have the means and ways to aid the national grid are empowered to do so. It also seeks to ensure a percentage of the funds generated go to these host communities.

Hon. Babajimi Benson clarified that the issues of concerns that were noticed earlier have been rectified and that Honorable members should support it.

Summary of voting:

Clauses voted on and approved: 1-5.

11. A Bill for an Act to Amend the Niger-Delta Development Commission Act 2000 and for Related Matters (HB.264) – Committee of the Whole: 26/7/2023.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere stated that the Bill seeks to amend the principal Act to ensure the position of the NDDC as a vehicle for the discharge of its developmental responsibilities. It also seeks to increase the number of Directors of the Board for better discharge of their responsibilities.

Summary of voting:

Clauses voted on and approved: 1-6.

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HOUSE IN PLENARY:

The House reverted to plenary and adopted the report of the Committee of the Whole following a motion by Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, and seconded by Hon. Ali Isa.

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BILLS:

12. A Bill for an Act to an Act to Amend the Electricity Act, 2023 to Address the concern of Host Communities ad for Related Matters (HB. 38)-Third Reading

Debate:

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere moved for the third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda. The Bill was voted on, accordingly read for the third time and passed.

13. A Bill for an Act to Amend the Niger-Delta Development Commission Act 2000 and for Related Matters (HB.264) –Third Reading

Debate:

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere moved for the third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda. The Bill was voted on, and accordingly read for the third time and passed.

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Hon. Julius Ihonvbere moved that the House adopts the votes and proceedings of the day and it was seconded by Hon. Ali Isa. The motion was voted on and passed with the votes and proceedings adopted accordingly.

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Adjournment:

The House at 16:33 PM adjourned plenary to Tuesday, September 12th 2023 by 11:00 A.M, following a motion for adjournment moved by the Leader of the House, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, and seconded by the Minority Leader, Hon. Kingsley Chinda.

Updated by LightRay Media, courtesy: Media Unit, Office of the Speaker, House of Representatives.