Plenary proceedings, House of Reps, Thursday Oct 19th, 2023
The Deputy Speaker of the House Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu presided.
PETITIONS:
- Hon. Julius Ihonvbere laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against an agency over his alleged unlawful termination from service without due cause.
- Hon. Kingsley Chinda laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against the Alex Ekweme Federal University and the Federal Government of Nigeria on the University’s alleged refusal to approve her proper enrollment to enable her earn her due wages after many years of service.
- Hon. Udo laid a petition on behalf of Raphael Udo against the Hydro Electric Power Commission in his community of Akwa Ibom State over alleged financial impropriety and neglect of community development obligations.
- Hon. Uchenna Okonkwo laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against the former leadership of an estate bordering on alleged threat to life and massive financial misappropriation of about 1.5 Billion Naira belonging to the estate which the complainant represents. He also complained of the alleged chasing away of the chairman of the estate by hoodlums loyal to the former estate chairman.
- Hon. Tijani Ismail laid a petition on behalf of Mr. Isa Gana against the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company for alleged breach of its due functions.
- Hon. Mathew Nwogu laid a petition on behalf of Global services ltd. against a Director, Hauwa Mohammed bordering on alleged corrupt practices, gross abuse of office and failure to declare her assets which is in contradiction of the Code of Conduct Act, as well as other Laws.
- A petition was laid on behalf of Emenike Orji against Total Energy for the violation of fundamental human rights, alleged violation of property agreements, encroachment on property and refusal to pay compensation as directed by the Court of Law.
- Hon. Mark Esset laid a petition on behalf of Mr. Ayase against the Rector Tenders Board and Board of the Committee of the Port-Harcourt Polytechnic, Rivers State over alleged gross misappropriation of funds leading to the fraudulent construction of some buildings.
All the petitions were referred to the House Committee on Public Petitions.
MATTERS OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE:
- Hon. Musa Agah moved a motion on the explosion of Jos Electricity Distribution (JEDC) Company’s transformer, and it was seconded by Hon. Raheem Olawuyi. Hon. Agah in leading the debate expressed sadness and concern at the effects of the explosion which claimed the lives of several individuals, injuring scores of others and destroying several properties in the Jos North axis of Plateau State.
He stated that the devastation has left a lot of individuals in trauma after losing loved ones, properties, as well as their means of livelihood. Hon. Agah expressed concern at the manner in which the JEDC handle power distribution that disrupts power abruptly and frequently, causing damages to electrical appliances, as well as to stored goods and wares.
He called on the Federal Ministry of poverty alleviation, humanitarian affairs, as well as that or Power to ensure the victims are compensated and that the operations of the JEDC is properly monitored to ensure it functions as expected. He further called on the relevant Committees of the House to investigate the remote and immediate causes of such incidents with a view to curbing them and ensure due compensation is given to the victims.
The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Power, as well as that on Humanitarian Affairs.
- Hon. Felix Nweke moved a motion on the urgent need to provide relief materials to mitigate the consequences of flooding in communities of Rivers State and to forestall future occurrences, and it was seconded by Hon. Mudashiru Lukman.
Hon. Nweke in leading the debate bemoaned that the flood in the same communities has occurred repeatedly from 2021-2023 without any means of mitigation. He expressed worry that the flood destroys properties of the same victims in the communities which have barely recovered from the devastating effects of the previous year’s flood.
Hon. Nweke called on the Federal Ministry of environment, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), to assess the devastation and provide relief materials. He also called on the relevant Committees of the House to ensure compliance.
The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on NEMA as well as that on Environment.
- Hon. Patrick Umoh moved a motion on the urgent need for the Federal government to appoint Justices to the Supreme Court to expedite justice delivery in Nigeria, and it was seconded by Hon. Ishaya Lalu.
Hon. Umoh in leading the debate stated that the complement of Supreme Court Justices has fallen to an all time low short of 10 members which has put the current Justices under immense pressure as cases bordering on electoral matters alone have them overwhelmed.
He urged the Federal government to appoint new Justices to expedite Justice delivery in critical pending cases. He called on the House Committee on Federal Judiciary to ensure compliance.
The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on Federal Judiciary as well as that on Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance.
MATTER OF PERSONAL EXPLANATION:
- A matter of personal explanation was expressed on the renewal of passport of Nigerians stranded in war-torn Ukraine. The Speaker of the House Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen was highly commended for using Legislative leverage to ensure Nigerians stranded in Ukraine are duly evacuated or relocated. Commendation was also given to the leadership of the Nigeria Immigration Services, also to Ambassador Fatayi, as well as to Madam Abike Dabiri of the Diaspora Commission for their contributions in intervening for the wellbeing of Nigerians stranded in Ukraine.
PRESENTATION OF BILLS:
- Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.658) (Hon. Ugonna Ozurigbo) – First Reading.
- Companies and Allied Matters Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023(HB.659) (Hon. Ugonna Ozurigbo) – First Reading.
- Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023(HB.660) (Hon. Joshua Audu Gana) – First Reading.
- Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.661) (Hon. Mark B. Useni) – First Reading.
- Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.662) (Hon. Alex Egbona) – First Reading.
- Compulsory, Free Universal Basic Education Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023(HB.663) (Hon. Alex Egbona) – First Reading.
- Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 664) (Hon. Uchenna Harris Okonkwo) – First Reading.
- Federal College of Entrepreneurship and Skill Acquisition, Ogidi, Anambra State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.665) (Hon. Uchenna Harris Okonkwo) – First Reading.
- Certified Pension Institute of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.666) (Hon. Olufemi Adeleke Ogunbanwo) – First Reading.
- Nigerian Coal Corporation Act (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2023 (HB.667) (Hon. Chimaobi Sam Atu) – First Reading.
- Erosion Control Prevention Commission (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.668) (Hon. Chimaobi Sam Atu) – First Reading.
- Federal University of Agriculture, Ugbawka (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.669) (Hon. Nnolim Nnaji) – First Reading.
- Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.670) (Hon. Nnolim Nnaji) – First Reading.
- Federal College of Nursing and Midwifery, Obuoffia Enugu State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.671) (Hon. Nnolim Nnaji) – First Reading.
- Akanu Ibiam Federal University of Science and Technology, Unwana, Ebonyi State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.672) (Hon. Igariway Iduma Enwo) – First Reading.
- National Polytechnics Commission (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.673) (Hon. Igariway Iduma Enwo) – First Reading.
- National Oil Spill Detection Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.674) (Hon. Chris Nkwonta) – First Reading.
- Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2023 (HB.675) (Hon. Chris Nkwonta) – First Reading.
- Federal College of Entrepreneurship and Skill Acquisition, Awka, Anambra State (HB.676) (Hon. Sagir Ibrahim Koki) – First Reading.
- National Institute of Technical and Vocational Education, Kano Municipal, Kano State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.677) (Hon. Sagir Ibrahim Koki) – First Reading.
- Federal School of Statistics, Manchok (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.678) (Hon. Sadiq Ango Abdullahi) – First Reading.
- National Communications Commission Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.679) (Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi) – First Reading.
- Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.680) (Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi) – First Reading.
- Federal Teaching Hospital Birnin-Kebbi (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.681) (Hon. Bello Kaoje) – First Reading.
- Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 Act (Alteration) Bill, 2023 (HB.682) (Hon. Bello Kaoje) – First Reading.
- Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 Act (Alteration) Bill, 2023 (HB.683) (Hon. Awaji –Inombek Abiante) – First Reading.
- Public Health Practitioners Council (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.684) (Hon. Awaji –Inombek Abiante) – First Reading.
- Nigerian Citizens Moral Accountability Bill, 2023 (HB.685) (Hon. Awaji –Inombek Abiante) – First Reading.
- Nigeria Correctional Service Trust Fund (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.686) (Hon. Chinedu Ogah) – First Reading.
- National Youth Service Corps Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.687) (Hon. Adamu Tanko) – First Reading.
- University of Nigeria Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.688) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
- Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.689) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
- Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.690) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
- Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council Act (Amendment) Bill 2023 (HB.691) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
- National Institute of Nigerian Languages Act (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2023 (HB.692) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
- Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.693) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
- Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians (Registration, etc.) Act (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2023 (HB.694) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
- Landscape Architects (Registration, etc) Bill, 2023 (HB.695) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
- Institute of Landscape Architects of Nigeria (Establishment, etc) Bill, 2023 (HB.696) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
- National Research and Innovation Council (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.697) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
- Office of Budget Management of the Federation (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 698) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
- Armed Forces Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.699) (Hon. Babajimi Benson) – First Reading.
- Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.700) (Hon. Babajimi Benson) – First Reading.
- Occupational and Health Safety Bill, 2023 (HB. 701) (Hon. Babajimi Benson) – First Reading.
- Federal Universities of Technology Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 HB.702) (Hon. Babajimi Benson) – First Reading.
- Armed Forces Support Trust Fund Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 703) (Hon. Babajimi Benson) – First Reading.
- Broadcasting Practitioners Act (Amendment) 2023 (HB.704) (Hon. Wale Hammed) – First Reading.
- Federal University of Solid Mineral Development, Michika (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.705) (Hon. Zakaria Dauda Nyampa) – First Reading.
- Federal College of Medical Laboratory Technology, Michika (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.706) (Hon. Zakaria Dauda Nyampa) – First Reading.
- Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act (Amendment), Bill, 2023 (HB.707) (Hon. Zakaria Dauda Nyampa) – First Reading.
- Federal College of Nursing and Midwifery, Madagali, (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.708) (Hon. Zakaria Dauda Nyampa) – First Reading.
- Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.709) (Hon.Jeremiah Umaru) – First Reading.
PRESENTATION OF REPORT:
- Ad-hoc Committee on Internal Security of the National Assembly
Hon. Mohammed Danjuma Hassan:
“That the House do receive the Report of the Ad-hoc Committee on Internal Security of the National Assembly” (Referred: 14/7/2023).
The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Mohammed Hassan and seconded by Hon. Ayodeji Alaoakala.
- Ad-hoc Committee on Media and Public Affairs:
Hon. Khadija Bukar Ibrahim:
“That the House do receive the Report of the Ad–hoc Committee on Media and Public Affairs of the Tenth House of Representatives” (Referred: 15/6/2023).
The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Khadija Ibrahim and seconded by Hon. Uduak Odudoh.
- Ad-hoc Committee on the Need to Investigate the Alleged Manipulation of UTME Result:
Hon. Sada Soli:
“That the House do receive the Report of the Ad-hoc Committee on the Need to Investigate the Alleged Manipulation of UTME Result by Miss Ejikeme Joy Mmesoma” (Referred: 5/7/2023).
The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Sada Soli and seconded by Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante
- Ad-hoc Committee on the Need to Investigate Crude Oil Theft and Loss of Revenue Accrued from the Oil and Gas Sector:
Hon. Kabiru Alhassan Usman Rurum:
“That the House do receive the Report of the Ad–hoc Committee on the Need to Investigate Crude Oil Theft and Loss of Revenue Accrued from the Oil and Gas Sector in Nigeria” (HR. 62/07/2023) (Referred:12/6/2023).
The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Kabiru Hassan Rurum and seconded by Hon. Chris Nkwonta. The Deputy Speaker of the House Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu stated that oil theft accounts for the loss of over 1 Billion Dollars which represents a huge percentage of national budget and this leads to cuts in the ability of government to carry out critical projects for Nigeria’s prosperity, it reduces the confidence of investments in the Oil and Gas sector and hinders the ability of government to procure loans from development partners for expenditure on critical developmental projects.
The House he stated frowns on oil theft and will do all within its powers to support all MDAs of government saddled to ensure the halting of this economic sabotage do their job.
ORDERS OF THE DAY:
BILLS:
- A Bill for an Act to Establish Chartered Institute of Agribusiness Management of Nigeria to promote the practice and professionalism of Agribusiness in Nigeria and for Related Matters (HB.138) – 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, approved for third reading and passed.
- A Bill for an Act to Establish Chartered Institute of Digital Forensics of Nigeria to Regulate the Practice, including Qualification, Training, and Skill-Set of Digital Forensics among its Members, and to Determine the Standards of Knowledge and Skills to be Attained by Persons Seeking to become Registered Members of the Profession and for Related Matters (HB.140) – 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, approved for third reading and passed.
- A Bill for an Act to Establish Federal Capital Territory Education Resources Centre charged with the Responsibility to, among other things, Plan and Implement Curriculum measures and Evaluate Students and other Applicants for placement into Schools under the Administration of the Federal Capital Territory and for Related Matters (HB. 10) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu and six others) – Second Reading.
Debate:
Hon. Kama Nkemkanma moved for the second reading of the Bill, and it was seconded by Hon. Suleiman Gummi. Hon. Kanma in leading the debate stated that the Bill is in compliance with relevant Laws giving the House the mandate to make Laws for the FCT. He stated that the Center has been functioning without the due legal framework hence the need to provide such framework. He stated that this will promote learning within a legally recognized and applicable atmosphere.
The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House committee on the Federal Capital Territory.
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission Act, 2010 to include Gombe State as a State where Hydroelectric power is Generated and for Related Matters (HB. 100) (Hon. Inuwa Garba) – Second Reading.
Second reading of the Bill stepped down by leave of the House as it has been overtaken by events. This is due to the fact that the concerns of the Bill have already been addressed.
- A Bill for an Act to provide for Establishment of the Nigerian Authors Trust Fund to provide Financial Aid to Authors and Aspiring Authors in Nigeria and for Related Matters (HB. 14) (Hon. Pascal Agbodike) – Second Reading.
Debate:
Hon. Paschal Agbodike moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Rodney. Hon. Agbodike in leading the debate stated that the Bill seeks to provide the enabling framework to ensure due funding and assistance for Nigerian authors, as well as for aspiring authors to fund their intellectual works and get them published, this he stated is for the development of the literary society in Nigeria which has suffered financial degradation recently as opposed to some years past.
The Deputy Speaker of the House Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu praised the spirit of the Bill as it seeks to promote literacy in the society, as well as the enablement for authors to thrive and inspire others. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Information, National Orientation, as well as that on Ethics and Values.
MOTIONS:
- Reconsideration of Outstanding Bills from Preceding Assembly:
Hon. Francis E. Waive:
(i) Food Vendors (Registration) Council of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 326);
(ii) Pharmaceutical Technologists and Pharmacy Technicians Councils of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 345);
(iii) Federal Colleges of Education Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 494);
(iv) Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 171);
(v) Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 478);
(vi) Chartered Institute of Cooperatives Professionals of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 603);
(vii) Nigerian Council of Psychologists (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 610); and
(viii) Institute of Economists of Nigeria, Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 224).
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 the Assembly, the House may resolve that such Bill, upon being re-gazetted or clean copies circulated, be re-considered 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 read for the first time as 326, 345, 494, 171, 478, 603, 610 and 224 respectively;
Resolves to:
Commit the Bills to the Committee of the Whole for consideration.
Debate:
Hon. Francis Waive moved the motion for the reconsideration of outstanding Bills from preceding Assembly, and it was seconded by Hon. Adamu Hashimu. The motion was voted on, adopted and the Bills were recommitted to the Committee of the Whole.
- Need to Investigate the Non-Implementation of the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF):
Hon. Julius Ihonvebere Hon. Prince Henry O. Okojie:
The House:
Notes that the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF) was established in the National Health Act to extend Primary Health Care (PHC) to all Nigerians by substantially increasing the level of financial resources to PHC services;
Also notes that the BHCPF is funded from the Federal Government’s Consolidated Revenue Fund and supplemented by grants from local and international donors, partners, the private sector, philanthropic organisations, and funds generated from innovative sources such as taxes on cigarettes and alcohol;
Further notes that the Act provides that Half of the Fund will be used to provide a basic package of services in PHC facilities through the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) while 45% will be disbursed by the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) for essential drugs, maintaining PHC facilities, equipment and transportation, and strengthening human resource capacity; and the final 5% will be used by the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH) to respond to health emergencies and epidemics.
Aware that since the establishment of the National Health Act in 2014, only about N128 billion has been released from the Federation Account;
Concerned that disbursement of the fund to States was withheld because most of them failed to contribute the 25% counterpart funding towards Primary Health Care (PHC) projects, which is the criteria that makes them eligible for fund donations, neither did they give a proper account of the funds released to them;
Also concerned that the disbursement of the fund to the three tiers of government has been fraught with irregularities, including delayed transfer of funds, poor data management, corruption and the lack of preparedness of Local Government Health Authorities to manage the Fund.
Cognizant that the fund is structured in such a way that, if properly implemented, it would take a lot of stress out of healthcare endeavours in the country;
Also cognizant of the need to commence full implementation of the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF) and devise strategies to ensure accountability between the stakeholders at different levels of government;
Resolves to:
(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Health to commence full implementation of the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF) and ensure that all the stakeholders play their respective roles to ensure a successful disbursement and utilisation of the funds;
(ii) mandate the Committee on Healthcare Services to investigate the hindrances to full implementation of the Fund since inception to ensure that all bottlenecks to its successful implementation are effectively tackled, and report back within six (6) weeks for further legislative action.
Debate:
Hon. Henry Okojie moved the motion on the need to investigate the non-implementation of the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF), and it was seconded by Hon. Abdul Ado. Hon. Isa Mohammed proposed an amendment calling on the House Committee on Appropriations to confirm the status of the released funds. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committee on Healthcare Services.
- Need to Establish Military Formation in Illela and Gbadabawa Federal Constituency, Sokoto State:
Hon. Bello Isa Ambarura:
The House:
Notes that Section 14(2) (b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) provides that the security, safety, and welfare of the people of Nigeria shall be the primary purpose of government;
Also notes the incessant security breaches in Sokoto East and Sokoto State where lives and property of the citizens are lost due to the destructive activities of armed bandits in Illela and Gwadabawa Local Government Areas;
Further notes that the incessant attacks in the North East Zone of Sokoto State have brought untold hardships to the people, resulting in the death tolls of thousands, rendering children orphans, and destroying houses worth millions of naira.
Aware that most of the security men deployed to maintain peace and order in Sokoto State live in Sokoto town, thereby making it difficult for the security personnel to respond to distress calls when bandits attack Illela/Gwadabawa Federal Constituency;
Also aware that Illela Local Government Area, Sokoto State, is a border town with an international market where people from Mali, Niger, and the Benin Republic, as well as many other West African Countries, transact their business;
Cognizant of the need to establish a military formation or unit in Illela and Gwadabawa Local Government Areas to provide a security check on the influx of illegal immigrants and insurgencies into Nigeria to forestall any occurrence;
Resolves to:
(i) urge the Chief of Defence Staff and Chief of Army Staff to establish a military formation or unit and utilise local intelligence to track the movement of bandits in Illela and Gwadabawa Local Government Areas of Sokoto State; and
(ii) mandate the Committees on Defence and Army to ensure compliance.
Debate:
Hon. Bello Ambarura moved the motion on the need to establish a military formation in Illela and Gbadabawa Federal Constituency, Sokoto State, and it was seconded by Hon. Dagomie Abiante who also proposed an amendment to replace “and” with / between Illela Gbadabawa as it is one constituency.
Hon. Abdullahi proposed an amendment to incorporate some communities in his area of the same Sokoto State that also need military formations into the prayers of the motion as they are the worst hit by insecurity in Sokoto State. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committee on Defense, as well as that on Army.
- Need to Investigate the Adoption of Concrete Technology for Road Construction in Nigeria:
Hon. Khadija Bukar Ibrahim:
The House:
Notes that the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Works, has several ongoing road contracts across the country, including those awarded under the Federal Government Road Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit Scheme (RITCS) Executive Order 007 Phase II by NNPC valued at over Nl.4 trillion;
Also notes that the Federal Executive Council approved the awards of the contracts to which the Federal Ministry of Works, Department of Highway (bridges and design), in preparation for the implementation of the project;
Further notes that a due process certificate of “No Objection” was granted by the Bureau of Public Procurement to the Federal Ministry of Works for the construction and rehabilitation of all the Federal road projects;
Aware that the Contractors submitted a Performance Guarantee of 10% of the contract sum to secure successful project completion;
Concerned that the contract Agreements have strict liquidated damages Clauses with the supervision and monitoring by the Federal Ministry of Works to ensure that standard specifications are not compromised;
Also concerned that several studies have revealed that the use of rigid/cement concrete pavements in road construction has significant technical limitations and constraints;
Worried that the Hon. Minister of Works’ new policy on cement concrete pavement adoption without in-depth studies of the comparative advantages/disadvantages with asphalt may contradict technical specifications, potentially leading to contract breaches and potential arbitration and litigations during a challenging economic time;
Resolves to:
(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Works to suspend in the interim the wholesome adoption of cement concrete for road construction pending the outcome of the investigation; and
(ii) mandate the Committees on Works, Environment, Finance and Judiciary to investigate the merit and demerit of using cement concrete for road construction and asphalt and report back within three (3) weeks for further legislative action.
Debate:
Hon. Khadija Ibrahim moved the motion on the need to investigate the adoption of concrete technology for road construction in Nigeria, and it was seconded by Hon. Ogbara Kafilat. Hon. Ali Isa proposed an amendment to delete prayer 1 as it is preemptive to the investigation.
Hon. Akin Alabi who is the Chairman, House Committee on Works stated that the Committee has already begun work on the issue in dialoging with the relevant agencies of government and will get back to the House with its findings soon.
Hon. Kama Nkemkanma further proposed an amendment to replace the House Committee on Judiciary with that on Justice as it is more in line with, and relevant to the prayer of the motion. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committee on Works, Finance, Justice, as well as that on Environment.
- Need to Checkmate the State of Insecurity in Wamba, Akwanga and Nasarawa Eggon, Nasarawa State:
Hon. Jeremiah Umaru:
The House:
Notes the alarming rate of kidnapping for ransom in Nasarawa State and the Country as a whole;
Also notes that the security challenges pose a threat to the peace and stability of the people of Nasarawa State and have worsened after the 2023 general elections;
Alarmed at the mass invasion of criminals into Nasarawa State from neighbouring States, the State is gradually becoming a sanctuary for armed criminals and kidnappers whose activities are making the State unsafe for habitation, despite the efforts of the State Government and security agencies;
Also alarmed that the former Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State was recently kidnapped at Rinza village near Wamba, within the same week, three family members of the former Minister of Information and other innocent citizens were kidnapped and ransom was paid for their freedom;
Worried that the recent activities of kidnapping in Wamba, Akwanga Nasarawa Eggon and other parts of the State have triggered fear among the inhabitants of the State;
Convinced that if the rising trend of insecurity and kidnapping is not checked it will destroy lives and ruin the economic fortunes of the State;
Resolves to:
(i) urge the Federal Government to establish a permanent Military, Police and other Security formations to strengthen the security of the State;
(ii) mandate the Committees on Defence, Army, Airforce, Police Affairs and Emergency and Disaster Preparedness to ensure compliance.
Debate:
Hon. Jeremiah Umaru moved the motion on the need to checkmate the state of insecurity in Wamba, Akwanga and Nasarawa Eggon all of Nasarawa State, and it was seconded by Hon. Solomon Wombo. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Army, Defense, as well as that on Disaster Preparedness.
- Ban on Inappropriate Educational Materials in Nursery and Pre-Primary Schools in Nigeria:
Hon. Sulaiman Abubakar Gumi:
The House:
Notes that the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) has the statutory responsibility to undertake and promote book development and local authorship for quality assurance at the National level, while the Curriculum Service Departments undertake the same at the State Level, whereas the Education Research Council (ERC) does same in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja;
Concerned about the influx of foreign educational materials introduced in Nursery and Primary schools in Nigeria which tend to teach and promote certain morals that are alien and inimical to our cherished norms and values;
Also concerned that the widely used book, ‘Queen Primer’ subtly introduces terms ‘gay’, ‘eros’, etc, that communize sexual perversion and immoral behaviours, thus exposing innocent children to terms inappropriate for their age, which is unlawful, unethical, highly immoral and antithetical to child upbringing;
Cognizant of the need to instil and protect moral values in children and society at large by resisting the use of educational materials that teach or promote any form of alien behaviour which violates the laws and moral values in all educational institutions, especially in the Nursery and Primary schools;
Resolves to:
(i) urge the Federal Government to place a total ban on the local production, importation and use of any educational material that contains such words that teach or promote Lesbianism, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) in our schools throughout the country;
(ii) also urge the Federal Ministry of Education, the Nigeria Educational Research and Development Council and the Education Research Council (ERC) to carefully vet and censor the contents of educational materials used in Nursery and Primary schools in the country and ensure that they are appropriate and devoid of any connotation of immoral behaviour;
(iii)mandate the Committee on Basic Education to ensure compliance.
Debate:
Hon. Sulaiman Gumi moved the motion on the call for the ban on inappropriate educational materials in nursery and pre-primary schools in Nigeria, and it was seconded by Hon. Abass Adigun. Hon. Sada Soli in contributing to the debate praised the spirit and timeliness of the motion as it seeks to cure the confusion and distress these strange knowledge inflicts on children. He further reiterated that Nigeria has laws prohibiting these inappropriate contents in the society, especially as Nigerian religions frown at them.
Hon. Olumide Osoba stated that the use of these gay nomenclature is against Nigerian cultural values. He frowned at Western countries bullying African nations to accommodate such and called on the House to stand firm against it.
Hon. Anthony called for full censorship and monitoring of such content so that they do not filter into the society as it has the potential to destroy the society. He proposed an amendment to the prayer of the motion to be extended and cover secondary schools, as well as tertiary institutions.
Hon. Ibrahim Aliyu bemoaned the moral decadence in the Nigerian society due to vices such as banditry, fraud, cattle rustling, kidnapping and now gay and LGBT issues want to creep in. He called for strict monitoring of what children are accessible to through publications, as well as the Internet.
Hon. Mohammed El-Rufai stated that he moved his daughter out of a school when he found out that some values he believed in were being neglected. He also stated that many television shows these days stylishly sneak in these alien values in their programmes to contaminate the minds of unsuspecting individuals.
Hon. Kabiru Maipalace in his contribution called on Nigerians to be very vigilant about what their children are being taught. He called on state governors to also continue to monitor and if necessary, shut down schools who err in this regard.
It was recognized that parents spend more time with their children than the children spend in schools with their teachers and should not fail in their duties to duly monitor literature, programmes and contents children take in as all contents are supposed to be age-rated.
Hon. Isiaka Ibrahim bemoaned the high rise in moral decadence that should be tackled by all MDAs and Arms of government. He called on UBEC and the state versions through the Ministry of education to ensure compliance with the due diligence.
Hon. Awaji Abiante called for the protection of the vulnerable pupils in schools. He wondered why the text books which should be vetted and discarded get into the school system. He called for the strict application of the relevant Laws on same sex marriage or courtship in the Nigerian society.
Hon. Adebayo Adepoju praised the spirit of the motion and stressed the need to enforce the relevant Laws on this issue as Nigeria is a sovereign nation that does not have to succumb to undue external pressure.
Hon. Garba Inuwa stressed the need to enforce standard curriculum for teaching Nigerian pupils. He also called for screening of social media content that comes into the country.
Hon. Abubakar Fulata proposed an amendment to prayer 1 to urge the State and Federal governments to act on it as education falls into the concurrent list. He further proposed an amendment to prayer 2 to replace “immoral behavior” to “pervasive culture”
Hon. Toyin proposed an amendment to make it a criminal offense to make use of these pervasive material after they are banned. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House committee on Basic Education.
- Rehabilitation of Lafia-Quaan Pan-shendam –Ibi Federal Road in Plateau and Taraba State:
Hon. Isaac Kyale Kwallu Hon. Ayuba Zaku Dampar:
The House:
Notes that the Lafia-Quaan Pan-Shendam Federal Roads in Plateau State play a vital role in the economic development of these cities as it is the major link between parts of Taraba, Plateau Nassarawa States to other parts of the country, the roads have remained dilapidated for years;
Also notes that the deplorable condition of the roads has irreparable harm to economic activities and caused a lot of hardship to the inhabitants of the villages and communities adjourning to the road, the road also poses a danger to motorists and farmers in their bid to transfer their farm produce to markets in the towns;
Worried that as a result of the bad roads, farmers lose farm produce worth millions of naira daily due to their inability to take their harvested goods to the market on time;
Also worried that the condition of the roads has aggravated the sufferings of the people and has placed limitations on economic activities as the movement of people, goods and services becomes challenging with a resultant loss of earnings and resources;
Concerned that the rise in the price of foodstuff can be attributed to the extra costs of transporting goods to the markets, these communities play a great part in feeding the nation as Plateau State is amongst the foremost agricultural-producing States in the country;
Resolves to:
(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Works and the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to rehabilitate the Lafia-Quaan Pan-Shendam Federal roads to curb accidents, and robbery incidences and to allow for the free and safe movement of agricultural produces goods and services;
(ii) mandate the Committees on Works and Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance.
Debate:
Hon. Issac Kwallu moved the motion on the need to rehabilitate Lafia-Quaan Pan-shendam –Ibi Federal road in Plateau and Taraba States, and it was seconded by Hon. Osaro. Hon. Olumide Osoba proposed an amendment to prayer 2 to incorporate the House Committee on FERMA into the prayer of the motion. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committee on Works, FERMA, as well as that on Legislative Compliance.
- Need for the Central Bank of Nigeria to Release the Approved N27.6 Billion as part of Funds Generated from Gas Flaring Penalties to Host Communities in Compliance with the Petroleum Industry Act:
Hon. Awaji-Inombek D. Abiante:
The House:
Aware that the previous administration of Muhammadu Buhari approved the sum of N27.6 billion, which is part of funds domiciled with the Central Bank of Nigeria as gas flaring penalties, to host and impacted communities of oil-producing areas;
Also aware that over N100 billion has so far been received as gas flaring penalty or fines by the Department of Petroleum Resources and paid into the Central Bank of Nigeria;
Further aware that Section 104 subsection (4) of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021 including other statutory international laws demands that, monies collated as gas flaring penalties be paid to host communities for environmental remediation and relief of these communities;
Concerned that despite the approval of N27.6 billion to be paid to host communities, the Central Bank of Nigeria, Ministry of Finance and relevant government agents are yet to comply with the directive in total disregard to statutory provisions;
Also concerned that the adverse effect of gas flaring on oil-producing areas has continued to hamper the agricultural livelihood of host communities which fuels vandalism and agitations;
Worried that the non-release of the money to host communities not only negates statutory provisions as well as government directives but is also a major factor leading to continuous adverse effects of environmental degradation and the consequent sufferings and agitations;
Notes that while the money collated as gas flaring penalties may amount to over N100 billion, it is equally legitimate and imperative to release part of the total funds already approved by the government to the right people to fulfil the provisions of the law to reverse the adverse impact of gas flaring as well as guarantee development in the area.
Resolves to:
(i) urge the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Ministry of Finance to immediately release the approved N27.6bn to host communities as prescribed by the Petroleum Industry Act 2021;
(ii) also urge the Federal Government to hasten the approval for the release of the balance of the funds to host communities; and
(iii) mandate the Committee on Host Communities to ensure and monitor the release of the initial approved N27.6 billion to legitimate representatives of host communities in compliance with the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021 and statutory provisions and report to back within Four (4) weeks for further legislative action.
Debate:
Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante moved the motion on the need for Central Bank of Nigeria to release the approved N27.6 Billion as part of funds generated from gas flaring penalties to host communities in compliance with the Petroleum Industry Act. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on Host Communities.
- Decongestion of Correctional Service Centres in Nigeria:
Hon. Chinedu N. Ogah Hon. Ime B. Okon:
The House:
Notes that the Nigerian Correctional Service is an arm of the Criminal Justice System with a specific mandate to reform, rehabilitate and ensure effective re-integration of offenders back into society in line with universally accepted standards;
Aware that the Nigeria Correctional Service is currently housing over 70,000 inmates, thus overcrowding the centres, which can accommodate only 50,000 inmates, thereby overstretching the dilapidated facilities;
Concerned that only 27% of the inmates have been convicted while a whopping 73% are awaiting trial, most of the inmates in correctional centres across the country are serving time without having been convicted;
Worried that the deplorable state of the centres puts the inmates at great risk to their health and safety, violates their fundamental right to humane treatment, dignity, and fair and speedy trial, and, most importantly, undermines the effectiveness of rehabilitation programmes;
Cognizant that improved implementation of the criminal justice system and adoption of non-custodial measures would help decongest national prisons.
Resolves to:
(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Interior to rehabilitate and decongest Nigeria’s correctional centres, addressing both short-term and long-term challenges and make provisions for the project in the 2024 budget estimates;
(ii) also urge the National Human Rights Commission and the Legal Aid Council to conduct independent assessments of correctional centres across the country to ensure compliance with global standards and human rights principles;
(iii) mandate the Committees on Interior, Human Rights and Justice to ensure compliance.
Debate:
Hon. Chinedu Ogah moved the motion on the need for the decongestion of correctional service centers in Nigeria, and it was seconded by Hon. Ganiy Ayuba. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on Interior, Reformation, Human Rights as well as that on Justice.
- Implementation of Integrated and Sustainable Urban Development and Physical Planning Across the States of the Federation:
Hon. Philip AgbeseHon. Solomon Wombo:
The House:
Notes that Urban Development and Physical Planning are modern strategies aimed at creating sustainable, resilient settlements that correspond with the local situation;
Also notes that half of Nigeria’s population lives in overpopulated urban centres due to heavy rural-urban migration, leading to slums that don’t meet modern urban settlement standards;
Further notes that most Nigerian cities Lack Standard Master Plans for development, and when they do, they are done in isolation without considering their effects on the neighbouring states;
Observes that the planned cities have deviated from the original Master Plans where residential areas are being converted to industrial and commercial areas without proper environmental impact assessment to ascertain the hazards and ways to mitigate them;
Worried that most Nigerian cities have transformed into slums, thus serving as breeding grounds and safe havens for criminals;
Cognizant that climate change, particularly global warming and its attendant effects, has devastated states across the nation and will be more severe if an integrated approach to urban and physical planning is not implemented;
Resolves to:
(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing to collaborate with states’ Urban Development Departments to develop a comprehensive integrated urban development plan; and
(ii) mandate the Committee on Urban Development and Physical Planning to ensure Compliance and report back within four (4) weeks.
Debate:
Hon. Solomon Wombo moved the motion on the need for the implementation of the sustainable urban development and physical planning across the States of the federation, and it was seconded by Hon. Iyawe Esosa. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on Urban Development and Physical Planning.
- Non-inclusion of Maritime Transport Facilities as part of Palliatives for Fuel Subsidy Removal:
Hon. Julius Gbabdjor Pondi:
The House:
Notes the sudden removal of the fuel subsidy and its consequential harsh impact on the lives of citizens nationwide;
Recalls that the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria urged citizens to remain patient and hopeful as they worked to launch policy alternatives to mitigate unintended social and economic outcomes;
Also recalls that in his inaugural address, the President Commander–In–Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria announced plans to provide 3,000 buses for commuters, but did not mention maritime transportation for riverine communities in the Niger Delta region which draws the bulk of its sustaining revenues from the resources of the area;
Observes that efforts are being made by the Federal Government to distribute bags of rice and corn to states, along with the disbursement of five billion naira ($5,000,000,000) to each State and the Federal Capital Territory;
Concerned that it appears that the distribution has run into aggressive and disruptive agitations in some states, resulting in fights and campaigns of calumny in addition to lack of clarity on the exact amount being disbursed to the states, its source, and whether or not it is a grant or loan to states;
Worried that the distribution of aid to Nigerians has been disrupted by agitations in some states, leading to confusion as to the exact amount and source, despite assurances, the Nigerians have experienced inflation and destabilizing hardships, the lack of transportation in riverine communities, particularly in the Niger Delta region, is exacerbated by the rise in the cost of food and health;
Resolves to:
(i) urge the Federal Government to direct the inclusion of all riverine states in the provision of subsidy palliatives, particularly maritime transportation facilities such as speedboats and other relevant passenger boats;
(ii) mandate the Committee on Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance.
Motion stepped down by leave of the House.
- Need to Rehabilitate Bauchi–Ningi–Kano Road in Ningi/Warji Federal Constituency of Bauchi State:
Hon. Adamu Hashimu Ranga Hon. Aliyu Aminu Garu
Hon. Mansur Manu Soro Hon. Adamu Yakubu
Hon. Rabiu Yusuf Hon. Abdul Hakeem Kamilu Ado
The House:
Notes that the deplorable condition of Bauchi—Ningi—Kano Road which was constructed in the late 80s and rehabilitated around 2007.
Also notes that the road, connecting Bauchi to Kano, is a major business route with over five famous markets in Gadar Maiwa, Ningi, Nasaru, B/Kudu, Kachako, Darki, and Ladin Makole;
Worried that the dilapidated state of the road is causing loss of lives and destruction of properties worth millions of naira due to the increased movement of vehicles from Gombe, Adamawa, and Jos plying the same road to Kano;
Cognizant of the need to rehabilitate Bauchi–Ningi Kano Road in Ningi/Warji Federal Constituency of Bauchi State;
Resolves to:
(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Works and Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to deploy resources to address the situation and include it in the 2024 budget estimates; and
(ii) mandate the Committees on Works and Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to ensure compliance.
Debate:
Hon. Adamu Hashimu moved the motion on the need to rehabilitate Bauchi–Ningi–Kano Road in Ningi/Warji Federal Constituency of Bauchi State, and it was seconded by Hon. Mohammed Katsina. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Works, as well as that on FERMA.
- Investigation into Allegations of Abuse, Breach, and Violation of the Public Procurement Act 2007 in the Engagement of Consultants for Pre-shipment Inspection and Monitoring of Crude Oil and Gas Exports from Nigeria:
Hon. Kabiru Amadu:
The House:
Recalls that in line with the Pre-Shipment Inspection of Exports Act, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is mandated to appoint inspecting agents to carry out pre-shipment inspection;
Also recalls that the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria had delegated these powers to the Federal Ministry of Finance, based on this delegation, the Federal Ministry of Finance initiated a process of engaging pre-shipment inspectors and monitoring agents;
Further recalls that, as required by the Public Procurement Act, 2007 (as amended), the Federal Ministry of Finance commenced the process in a chaotic manner, which had clear infractions and breaches of the Public Procurement Act, 2007;
Notes that the Federal Ministry of Finance resumed the tendering process after complaints, but faced abuse and breach of the Public Procurement Act, with unresponsive companies pre-qualified and lacking basic documents;
Also notes that the abuses were designed, pushed, and implemented by officers of the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Public Procurement Act and other procurement guidelines were completely ignored, and key provisions on conflict of interest were violated;
Observes that, as a result of the above abuses, which culminated in the engagement of unqualified and unresponsive consultants, mistakes have been made by these consultants after their engagement, which has now resulted in a loss of revenue worth about 160 million USD;
Concerned that if urgent steps are not taken to investigate the allegations and remedy the damage created, more mistakes and errors by the consultants will result in great revenue losses at a time when Nigeria is already dealing with a significant revenue shortfall;
Resolves to:
Mandate the Committee on Public Procurement to investigate Allegations of Abuse, Breach, and Violation of the Public Procurement Act, 2007 in the Engagement of Consultants for Pre-shipment Inspection and Monitoring of Crude Oil and Gas Exports from Nigeria and report back within six (6) weeks for further legislative action.
Debate:
Hon. Kabiru Amadu moved the motion on the need for investigation into allegations of abuse, breach and violation of the Public Procurement Act 2007 in the engagement of consultants for pre-shipment inspection and monitoring of crude oil and gas exports from Nigeria, and it was seconded by Hon. Ranga. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on Public Procurement.
- Need to Rehabilitate the Bekwarra Ogoja-Ikom-Calabar Federal Highway in Cross River State: Hon. Godwin Offiono
The House:
Notes that the Bekwarra-Ogoja-Ikom-Calabar Federal Road Network in Cross River State is one of the major roads connecting South-South to the Northern parts of Nigeria;
Aware of the deplorable condition of the road which calls for the Federal Government’s intervention, as road users spend 6–8 hours in gridlock transporting goods through Cross River State;
Aware that since the construction of the road in the 1970s, the road has not undergone significant rehabilitation, making it challenging for commuters and articulated vehicles to transport both perishable and non-perishable goods;
Concerned that the dilapidated condition of the road poses a significant security and death threat to citizens transporting goods and services from the north to Cross River State and southern areas;
Also concerned that frequent road accidents and traffic congestion have reduced commercial activities and increased crime rates, consequently increasing the cost of transportation merely due to neglect and deterioration of the road , hence the need to address the adverse condition of the road;
Worried that most portions of the road have been rendered impassable by deep potholes posing a danger to road users, as trucks often fall and spend days transporting goods, thus, causing significant inconveniences;
Resolves to:
(i) Urge the Federal Ministry of Works and the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to provide palliative measures on the Bekwarra-Ogoja-Ikom-Calabar road to ease the movement of goods and services.
(ii) also urge the Federal Ministry of Works to make adequate budgetary provisions in the 2024 budget estimates to address the deplorable conditions of the Bekwarra-Ogoja-Ikom-Calabar Federal Highway in Cross River State;
(iii) mandate the Committee on Works to ensure compliance.
Debate:
Hon. Godwin Offiono moved the motion on the need to rehabilitate the Bekwarra-Ogoja-Ikom-Calabar Federal highway in Cross River State, and it was seconded Hon. Terseer Ugbor. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Works as well as that on FERMA.
- Need to Investigate Underreporting of Wins (Extract E-Products) By Mines And Quarry Licence Operators:
Hon. Nkemkanma Kama:
The House:
Notes that the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007 operates a self-assessment regime like the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), where the operator records his wins and gives the report to the Mines Officer of the Federal Ministry on inspection of the mines site;
Aware that due to inadequate manpower and other limitations the operators underreport their wins (quantity of products extracted) to the Federal Mine officer;
Worried that this has led to a huge loss of revenue to the Federal Government running into over 3 billion dollars over the years. A case in sight is that of a company Saint. David’s PGter Limited operating under the name Hongfa Global Mining Limited in the Libata community in Kebbi State, it is alleged that they have an unpaid Royalties bill of (N2.394B) yet to be paid to the Federal Government;
Disturbed that if this trend continues unabated, the country will never enjoy its full potential in the solid minerals sector;
Resolves to:
mandate the Committee on Solid Minerals Development to investigate mining reports from Federal Mine Officers of the states alongside holders of mining and quarry licences in the last fifteen years and report back within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.
Debate:
Hon. Nkemkanma Kama moved the motion on the need to investigate underreporting of wins (Extract E-Products) by mines and quarry license operators, and it was seconded by Hon. Matthew. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on Solid Mineral Development.
CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS:
(HOUSE IN THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE):
Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu Chaired:
- A Bill for an Act to Establish the Nigeria Medical Research Council and for Related Matters 2023 (HB.470) (Leader) – Committee of the Whole 10/10/2023.
Synopsis Of The Report:
Hon. Julius Ihonvbere stated that the Bill seeks to establish and regulate operations of the Medical Research Council for the development and advancement of medical research in Nigeria.
Summary of Voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1, 3, 5-11, 13-25
Clauses amended and approved: 2, 4, 12
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Polytechnics Act, Cap. 17 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and Establish Federal Polytechnic, Rano, Kano State and for Related Matters (HB. 92) (Leader) – – Committee of the Whole:18/7/2023
Synopsis Of The Report:
Hon. Julius Ihonvbere stated that the Bill had been considered earlier but was stepped down for it to be fine-tuned in line with the Act governing Federal Polytechnics.
Summary of Voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-4
HOUSE IN PLENARY:
The House reverted to plenary and adopted the report of the Committee of the Whole following a motion by Rep. Julius Ihonvbere and seconded by Hon. George Ozodinobi.
Adjournment:
The House at 14:49 PM adjourned plenary to Tuesday, October 24th 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 Deputy Minority Whip, Hon. George Ozodinobi.
Courtesy: LightRay Media and Media Unit, Office of the Speaker House of Representatives.
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