Plenary proceedings of the House of Reps for Wed, Nov 27th, 2024

The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen presided.

By admin , in Inside stories , at November 27, 2024

After the recitation of the First stanza of the National Anthem, the National Pledge and opening prayer, the Speaker approved the votes and proceedings of Tuesday, November 26th, 2024

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Membership of the Ad-Hoc Committee on the screening for confirmation of appointment of Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede as substantive Chief of Army Staff. The Committee is to be chaired by Hon. Babajimi Benson.
The Chief Whip of the House, Hon. Bello Usman Kumo communicated to Honourable Members the conferment of a Traditional Title on the Honourable Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen from the Kebbi state Emirate Council.

PETITIONS:

Hon. Jesse Onuakalusi laid 2 petitions on behalf of 2 different complainants:
I. This first is against Total Nigeria Ltd. on the alleged failure to pay agreed compensation which also allegedly has the backing of a Court judgment.
II. The second is against the Nigerian Army as well as Shell Petroleum Nigeria Ltd. for alleged misconduct.
Hon. Victor Chukwuemele laid a petition on behalf of some complainants against Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Ltd. as well as SD consultations Ltd. on alleged marginalization on due training projects from the petroleum sector ceded to individuals from the region.
Hon. Matthew Nwogu laid a petition on behalf of some complainants against Shell Petroleum Nigeria Ltd. on alleged unjustified actions within their communities.
Hon. Mudashiru Lukman laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against the Accountant General of Imo state on alleged non payment of contractual sums.
Hon. Joseph Nwabasi laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against an Oil company over the alleged unlawful termination of his employment.

All the petitions were referred to the House Committee on Public Petitions.

MATTERS OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE:

Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi moved a motion on the urgent need to address the immediate and remote challenges to the electricity distribution sector in Nigeria and it was seconded by Hon. Daniel Asama. Hon. Ezechi in leading the debate lamented the decommissioning of over 1000 meters thereby expanding the hardship of Nigerians. He also stated that the burden of acquiring and maintaining electricity infrastructure these days falls on Nigerians, which has led to untold hardship on consumers seeking stable power supply for homes and businesses. Hon. Ezechi commended the private sector contributions to government efforts in the bid of ensuring affordable electricity for Nigerians.

He called on the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission to ensure the electricity distribution companies comply strictly with laid down regulations governing the sector. He further called on the House Committee on Power to ensure accessible and transparent system for meter purchase and upgrade and ensure the seeming failure by the DISCOs is addressed. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Power.

Hon. Ganiyu Ayuba moved a motion on the urgent need for payment of compensation for victims of the bird flu epidemic in Lagos state and all other states of the federation and it was seconded by Hon. Hamisu Ibrahim. Hon. Ayuba in leading the debate stated that the outbreak of bird flu caused extreme damage on agricultural production, especially to agriculturists in Lagos state. He lamented that even after 2 years, the promised compensation by government has not been fulfilled which has led to loss of some businesses. He called on the House Committee on Livestock Development to liaise with the necessary authorities to ensure the payment is speedily fulfilled and that the Federal Ministry on Livestock Development should ensure mechanisms to contain any future outbreak.

An amendment was proposed to refer the motion to the proper House Committee on Agricultural Production and Services. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committee on Agricultural Production and Services.

Hon. Fuad Laguda moved a motion on the need to provide Legislation to back the Presidential initiative for the conversion of vehicles from PMS to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), to prevent further loss of life as a result of the activities of artisans who engage in the local fabrication methods for CNG conversion and installation and it was seconded by Hon. Mohammed Shehu. Hon. Fuad in leading the debate stated that the laudable initiative by the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led federal government to reduce transportation costs and ensure cleaner air by switching from petroleum products to CNG has been tainted by the activities of artisans seeking cheap alternatives to the manufacture and installation of the CNG tanks which has led to loss of lives from explosions, such as was the case in Edo state. He called for legislation that will preserve the integrity of the Presidential initiative by ensuring a safe standard of the conversion exercise and ensuring due certification needs to be obtained before being allowed to operate in the conversion system.

Hon. Fuad called for the clamping down of those employing substandard materials for production of CNG cylinders and ensure safety standards are upheld. He commend the Federal Government for the efforts on the CNG initiative. He called for the enactment of Legislation that will ensure the process meets International standards and stamp out unauthorized dealers.

Hon. Fuad further called on the House Committee on Gas Resources as well as that on Industry to ensure safety and quality standards are maintained within the CNG conversion system. He again reiterated the need for the training and certification of workshop operators seeking to practice conversion to CNG for safety purposes.

Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka proposed an amendment to make the prayer focus on the entire nation.

Hon. Harrison Nwadike also proposed an amendment that the House Committee on Safety Standard should be incorporated in the referral from the motion as the lead Committee. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committees on Gas Resources, Industries, Safety Standard, Science Engineering as well as that on Science and Technology.

PRESENTATION OF BILLS:

Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1905) (Hon. Awaji-Inombek D. Abiante) – First Reading.
Federal College of Health Science, Technology and Tropical Medicine, Tarauni, Kano State (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1863) (Hon. Umar Muktar Zakari) – First Reading.
Quarterly Presentation of Budgets Implementation by Ministers on a Phone in Programme (Mandatory) Bill, 2024 (HB.1874) (Hon. Olusoji Abidemi Adetunji) – First Reading.
Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1899) (Hon. Chidi Mark Obetta) – First Reading.
Medical and Dental Practitioners Act (Amendment) (HB.1900) (Hon. Chidi Mark Obetta) – First Reading.
National Assisted Reproduction Technology and Surrogacy Board (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1902) (Hon. Uduak Alphonsus Odudoh) – First Reading.
Lawful Interception of Telecommunications and Subscriber Privacy Protection Bill, 2024 (HB.1903) (Hon. Uduak Alphonsus Odudoh) – First Reading.
Civil Aviation Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1919) (Hon. Emmanuel Ukpong-Udo) – First Reading.
Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2024 (Creation of a Multilayer Police Force in Nigeria) (HB.1920) (Hon. Emmanuel Ukpong-Udo) – First Reading.
Estate Surveyors and Valuers (Registration etc.) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1921) (Hon. Emmanuel Ukpong-Udo) – First Reading.
Students Loans (Access to Higher Education) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1922) (Hon. Emmanuel Ukpong-Udo) – First Reading.
Federal Polytechnics Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1916) (Hon. Ajiya Abdulrahaman) – First Reading.
Trade Union Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1923) (Hon. Emmanuel Ukpong-Udo) – First Reading
Crypto and Related Currencies (Regulation) Bill, 2024 (HB.1932) (Hon. Harrison Anozie Nwadike) – First Reading.
Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Sixth Alteration) (Creation of Adada State Bill, 2024 (HB.1716) (Hon. Martins Oke) – First Reading.
National Agency for Revenue Generation Regulatory Commission (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1376) (Hon. Mathew Nwogu) – First Reading.
University of Agriculture and Development Studies, Iregbeji, Osun State (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (SB.569) (Senate) – First Reading.
Public Health Emergency Bill, 2024 (HB.1948) (Hon. Amos Magaji) – First Reading.

PRESENTATION OF REPORT:

Committees on Finance and National Planning, and Economic Development:

Hon. James Abiodun Faleke:

“That the House do receive the Report of Committees on Finance and National Planning, and Economic Development on the 2025–2027 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP)” (Referred:19/11/2024).

The report was laid following a motion by Hon. James Faleke and seconded by Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka.

BILLS:

A Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Cap. C23, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to Expand the Scope and Meaning of Judicial Office to include the Magistrate Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja and the Magistrate Court of a State and for Related Matters (HB. 1663) (Hon. Abbas Tajudeen and Hon. Makki Yalleman) – Second Reading.

Debate:
Hon. Abubakar Yalleman moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Leke Abejide. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on the Review of the Constitution.

A Bill for an Act to ensure Proper Control of Usage of Artificial Intelligence (Ai) Technology in Nigeria and for Related Matters (HB. 942) (Hon. Sada Soli) – Second Reading.

Debate:
Hon. Sada Soli moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Bello Kumo. Hon. Sada in leading the debate stated that the Bill seeks to lay a foundation for forward thinking Legislative Framework to mitigate potential risks associated with digital information technology, especially as it relates to artificial intelligence. It also aims to ensure government can properly coordinate and manage the risk mitigation as well as data protection and governance for the good of Nigerians.

Hon. James Faleke proposed an amendment to incorporate the House Committee on Science and Technology to the referral of the Bill.

Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka rose to explain that there are 3 other Bills on the same subject matter (one sponsored by himself) and thought they would be consolidated before debate. This position was also reiterated by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu who also has a similar Bill. Hon. Ahmed Jaha further supported this position. Following this, the second reading of the Bill was stepped down by leave of the House for consolidation.

A Bill for an Act to Provide for incorporation of Risk Management functions in all Governmental Bodies in Nigeria and for Related Matters (HB. 1625)-(Hon. Zakaria Dauda Nyampa) – Second Reading.

Debate:
Hon. Zakariya Nyampa moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Idem Unyime. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Justice.

A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Colleges of Education Act, Cap. F8, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to Provide for Establishment of Federal College of Education, Ididep, Ibiono Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State and for Related Matters. (HB.972) (Hon. Uduak Alphonsus Odudoh) – Second Reading.

Debate:
Hon. Alphonsus Odudoh moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kelechi Nwogu. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Federal Colleges of Education.

A Bill for an Act to Amend the River Basins Development Authorities Act, Cap. R9, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 20004 to Provide for Establishment of Oji –Ebonyi River Basin Development Authority and the Lower Nigeria River Basin Development Authority and for Related Matters (HB. 1497) (Hon. Anyao B. Onwuegbu) – Second Reading.

Debate:
Hon. Anayo Onwuegbu moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Chinedu Ogah. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Water Resources.

A Bill for an Act to Establish Federal Vocational Training Centre, Riyom, Plateau State to Provide Full and Part Time Courses of Instruction in Different Fields of Study; and for Related Matters. (HB.1288) (Hon. Dalyop Chollom Fom) – Second Reading.

Second reading of the Bill,stepped down by leave of the House.

A Bill for an Act to Amend the Criminal Justice (Release From Custody) (Special Provisions) Act, Cap. C40, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to Provide for the Comptroller General of Prisons to make monthly returns to the Chief Justice of Nigeria and Chief Judges of the States to Order the release of persons detained in Prisons in circumstances specified in the Act and proffer more effective Prisons decongestion solution and for Related Matters (HB. 176) (Hon. Matthew Nwogu) – Second Reading.

Debate:
Hon. Matthew Nwogu moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Billy Osawaru. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Justice.

A Bill for an Act to Amend the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act, Cap. A12, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to make Provision for Establishment of Federal College of Food Technology, Alu, Yagba East, Kogi State; and for Related Matters (HB. 1289) (Hon. Abejide Leke Joseph) – Second Reading.

Debate:
Hon. Leke Abejide moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Hart Godwin. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions.

A Bill for an Act to Establish National Commission for Technology Transfer, Acquisition and Promotion to monitor, on a continuous basis, the inflow of foreign products/technology to Nigeria and for Related Matters (HB. 591) (Hon. Clement Jimbo) – Second Reading.

Debate:
Hon. Clement Jimbo moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Saba Adam. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Science and Technology.

MOTIONS:

Need to Implement Verifiable Documentation of Point of Sale (POS) Users’ and Fund Recipients’ Identities in Nigeria:

Hon. John Okafor:

The House:

Notes the increasing challenges posed by the undocumented identities of Point of Sale (POS) users and fund recipients in Nigeria, leading to opportunities for fraudulent activities within the financial system and the necessity to combat such illicit practices and safeguard the integrity of financial transactions within Nigeria;

Aware that undocumented POS transactions from both parties identities create a loophole for fraudulent activities, such as identity theft, money laundering, and unauthorised transactions. Also, by enforcing the documentation of users’ identity, the incidence of fraud will significantly reduce and the security of financial transactions in Nigeria will be enhanced.

Also aware that proper documentation of POS users’ identity fosters accountability among operators and users. This transparency will help trace transactions back to the individuals involved, holding them accountable for illegal activities conducted through the POS system, and ensure a lasting end to the criminal use of POS.

Worried that there is an obvious regulatory bias and enforcement challenge towards due process by the relevant regulatory bodies and the urgency for immediate intervention to avert this ugly situation and shield Nigerians from the hands of criminalities through the use of the POS system;

Also aware that establishing a system for verifiable documentation of POS users’ and recipients’ identity aligns with the national and international financial regulatory requirements with the objective of preventing financial crimes and ensuring compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) and know your customer (KYC) regulations;

Cognizant that implementing stringent identity verification measures will protect consumers and businesses from becoming vulnerable to fraudulent schemes carried out through POS transactions. Additionally, the process will build trust in the financial system and encourage greater participation in the growing cashless transactions system in Nigeria.

Resolve to:

mandate the Committees on Digital and Electronic Banking, Finance, Banking Regulations, and Financial Crimes to invite the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Group Managing Directors (GMDs) of all Commercial Banks and Other Financial Institutions utilizing POS services to appear before the Committees and find immediate and lasting measures to address this challenge and report back within four (4) legislative weeks.

Debate:
Hon. John Okafor moved the motion on the need to implement verifiable documentation of Point of Sale (POS) users’ and fund recipients’ identities in Nigeria and it was seconded by Hon. Bello El-Rufai. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committees on Digital and Electronic Banking, Finance, Banking Regulations as well as that on Financial Crimes.

Need to Investigate the Management of the Environmental Remediation Fund Established and Managed by the Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission:

Hon. Okpolupm Etteh.

The House:

Notes that Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission is empowered by Section 103 of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021 to establish an environmental remediation fund for the rehabilitation or management of negative environmental impacts in communities where oil exploration is carried out;

Also notes that the Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission is empowered to impose fines and, receive monies for flare gas and gas flaring, as provided for in Section 13 of the Flare Gas (Prevention of Waste Pollution) Regulation 2018 and Section 104 of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021 respectively;

Concerned that the Commission has regularly furnished the general public with yearly oil production status reports from 2020 to date, but failed to publish reports on Gas flared in Nigeria that show the amount of gas flared in accordance to the provisions of Section 16 of the Flare Gas (Prevention of Waste Pollution) Regulation, 2018;

Also concerned that based on the oil production status report for the month of May 2024, there are about 30 operational oil terminals in Nigeria in oil mining lease areas and marginal fields;

Worried that the Commission is expected to receive $2.00 per 28.317 standard cubic meters as flare payment for over 10,000 barrels of oil produced daily and $0.50 per 28.317 standard cubic meters for under 10,000 barrels. Nevertheless, no report has been filed regarding the amount received, and the Commission has not disclosed the amount it has obtained as fines from Nigerian oil companies and the locations where these funds are kept;

Also worried that the Commission has not carried out any environmental remediation in communities that are negatively impacted by the gas flaring though funds have been appropriated for them;

Resolves to:
(i) urge the Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission to produce and publish a report stating the dates and amount of all the oil- producing companies that made payments for flared Gas, and also

a report stating the dates and amounts it received from companies that were fined for gas flaring in Nigeria from 2018 to date;

(ii) mandate the Committees on Gas Resources, Petroleum Resources (Upstream) and Environment to investigate the:

(a) Environmental Remediation Fund to determine what action was taken with the funds as remediation (if any) in negatively affected oil-producing areas in Nigeria from 2018 to date;

(b) Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission on the amount it has received as fines for Gas Flaring and payment for Flare Gas in Nigeria to determine how the funds were utilised and report within six (6) weeks for further legislative action

Motion stepped down by leave of the House.

Need to Award Contract for the Construction of Geidam–Damasak Road:

Hon. Lawan Sheittima Ali:

The House:

Notes that the engineering design for the road was provided in the 2024 Appropriation Bill, but no contract was awarded for the execution of the project by the Federal Ministry of Works.
Also notes that the road is 75 kilometres long, covering Geidam, Mar, Balar, Yaro, Alai Lukuri, Umarari, Ajiri, Kudilmari, Masumari, Degeltura, Malam Abduri, Ambalamoi, Guwaya, Mattari, Bula Bulin, Malari Zagowa, Kaidiri, Ala Garno, and Isuri across to Damasak in Borno State;

Concerned that socioeconomic activities are in complete disarray as a result of the absence of a motorable highway, which could facilitate the flow of goods and services. Further, the lives and property of the people in those areas are exposed to insurgency.
Also concerned that the state of the road prevented the people living in communities from getting drugs from donor agencies and international organizations during the most severe phase of the Boko Haram Insurgency;

Resolves to:
(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Works to, as a matter of urgency, work out all necessary documentation to award the project in earnest; and
(ii) mandate the Committee on Works to carry out a detailed and holistic investigation to determine the reason for the non-award of contract for over a decade.

Debate:
Hon. Lawman Ali moved the motion on the need to award contract for the construction of Geidam–Damasak road and it was seconded by Hon. Shettima Abdumumin. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Works.

Intervention on the Perpetual Attacks on APA/AGATU Communities:

Hon. Ojema Ojotu.

The House:

Notes that there has been sustained and unabated attacks on the people of Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency who are only engaged legitimate businesses of farming and fishing to sustain themselves and their families;

Also notes that as Nigerians celebrated the Independent Day on October, 1st 2024, resident of Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency experienced Armageddon as invaders killed the IDP camp’s remnants, who were initially displaced but returned to sew crops ahead of the dry season;

disturbed that there was another attack on the Federal constituency, particularly on Egwuma, Olagbani, Okwutanobe, and Ogwule Ankpa and communities in Agatu Local Government Area in which lives and properties worth millions of naira were destroyed and frightening that the invaders disappeared without a trace and no action was taken to track and arrest the invaders;

Concerned that despite continual requests for government intervention to end the consistent unprovoked attacks, the killings continue unabated and the survivors of the attacks are displaced, wandering around homeless;

Cognizant of the need to establish a befitting Internally Displace Persons Camp in Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency to serve as a temporary home for the displaced person

Resolves to:
(i) observe a minute silence in honour of those who lost their lives in the recent attacks;

(ii) urge the Nigeria Army, Police Force, Air force, and other relevant security agencies to urgently move into the Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency, particularly the communities that have been made desolate, to mount surveillance to prevent further attacks and carry out clearance operations in the affected Communities;

(iii) also urge the Military to immediately establish a large Military Base in the areas of attack to restore peace and prevent further attacks;

(iv) urge the National Emergency management Agency (NEMA) to quickly establish a befitting Internally Displaced Persons (IDP’s) Camps in Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency to serve as a temporary home for the displaced person and immediately provide relief materials to the survivors of the attack to cushion the effects of the unfortunate incident; and

(v) mandate the Committee on Emergency and Disaster preparedness to ensure compliance and report back within four weeks for further legislation action.

Debate:
Hon. Ojema Ojotu moved the motion on the need for intervention on the perpetual attacks on APA/AGATU communities. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Emergency and Disaster Preparedness.

CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS (HOUSE IN THE COMMITTEE ON SUPPLY) Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu Chaired:

Committees on Finance and National Planning, and Economic Development:

Hon. James Abiodun Faleke:

“That the House do consider the Report of Committees on Finance and National Planning, and Economic Development on the 2025–2027 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP) and approve the recommendation therein” Laid: 27 /11/2024).

Findings:
Following a thorough review of the submissions presented by the MDAs, the Joint Committee noted the following:

(i) the projected oil benchmark prices are USD75, USD76.2 and USD75.3 per barrel for 2025, 2026 and 2027 respectively;

(ii) the three-year projections for domestic crude oil production had a significant increase from 1.78 mbpd in the preceding year to 2.06, 2.10 and 2.35 for the subsequent years of 2025, 2026 and 2027;

(iii) some critical Agencies such as NNPC, NLNG, Immigration Services and others that are relevant to the attainment of set revenue targets engage in Public Private Partnership and Joint Venture Arrangements that are inimical to the revenue growth of the Country;

(iv) historical non-remittance of operating surpluses into the Federation Account by the NNPCL due to what it called under recovery with the claim that the federating units owed it the sum of Ten Trillion Naira;

(v) the GDP growth rate is projected at 4.6%, 4.4% and 5.5% for years 2025, 2026 and 2027 respectively;

(vi) the projected exchange rate which stands at NGN1400/USD for years 2025, 2026 and 2027;

(vii) inflation rates projections are 15.75%, 14.21% and 10.04% for 2025, 2026 and 2027;

(viii) following the criteria in the overview of the framework for revenues and expenses, the 2025 FGN Budget proposed spending stands at NGN47.9 trillion, of which NGN34.82 trillion was retained; new borrowings stood at NGN9.22 trillion which constitutes both domestic and foreign borrowings; debt service was valued at NGN15.38 trillion; pensions, gratuities and retirees’ benefits stood at NGN1.443 trillion and fiscal deficit at NGN13.08 trillion;

(ix) Capital expenditure is projected at NGN16.48 trillion which is exclusive of transfers; statutory transfers stand at NGN4.26 trillion; Sinking Fund is projected at NGN430.27 billion;

(x) total recurrent (non-debt) is projected at NGN14.21 trillion; special intervention for recurrent and capital is pegged at NGN200 billion and NGN7 billion respectively;

(xi) that the existing liabilities and debt obligations are largely responsible for increasing debt profile of the Country;

(xii) most revenue generating agencies violate the Fiscal Responsibility Act due to the lack of punitive provisions in the Act;

(xiii) Noncompliance with the Nigerian Export Supervision Scheme (NESS) Act by relevant government agencies, specifically focusing on the inspection and monitoring of oil and gas exports as well as non-oil exports;

(xiv) Identified systemic gaps and irregularities in the operations of the Import Duty Exemption Certificate (IDEC); and

(xv) that the Federal Government Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs) as well as the Government Owned Enterprises (GOEs) are not complying with the financial reporting standards.

Recommendations:
(i) that the projected oil benchmark prices are USD75, USD76.2 and USD75.3 per barrel be approved for 2025, 2026 and 2027 respectively;

(ii) that the three-year projections for domestic crude oil production had a significant increase from 1.78 mbpd in the preceding year to 2.06, 2.10 and 2.35 for the subsequent years of 2025, 2026 and 2027 be approved;

(iii) that the National Assembly, through its Committees on Finance, National Planning and other relevant Committees should carry out in-depth investigation of such agreements by the NNPC, NLNG and Immigration Services with a view to reconcile remittances to the Federation Account;

(iv) that the Committees on Finance, Petroleum Upstream, and Petroleum Downstream are tasked to investigate reports from the Revenue Mobilization, Allocation, and Fiscal Responsibility Commission alleging that the NNPC withheld ₦8.48 trillion as claimed subsidies for petrol. Additionally, the investigation will address the NEITI report stating that NNPC failed to remit $2 billion (₦3.6 trillion) in taxes to the Federal Government. The committees are further directed to verify the total cumulative amount of unremitted revenue (under-recovery) from the sale of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) by the NNPC between 2020 and 2023;

(v) that the GDP growth rate which is projected at 4.6%, 4.4% and 5.5% for years 2025, 2026 and 2027 respectively, be approved;

(vi) that the projected exchange rate which stands at NGN1400/USD for years 2025, 2026 and 2027 be approved subject however to review in early 2025 according to monetary and fiscal policies;

(vii) that the Inflation rates projections which are 15.75%, 14.21% and 10.04% for 2025, 2026 and 2027, be approved;

(viii) that the following the criteria in the overview of the framework for revenues and expenses, the 2025 Federal Government of Nigeria Budget proposed spending stands at NGN47.9 trillion, of which NGN34.82 trillion was retained; new borrowings stood at NGN9.22 trillion which constitutes both domestic and foreign borrowings; debt service was valued at NGN15.38 trillion; pensions, gratuities and retirees’ benefits stood at NGN1.443 trillion and fiscal deficit at NGN13.08 trillion;

(ix) that the Capital expenditure is projected at NGN16.48 trillion which is exclusive of transfers statutory transfers stand at NGN4.26 trillion; Sinking Fund is projected at NGN430.27 billion;

(x) that the Committee approves the respective figures for total recurrent (non-debt) at NGN14.21 trillion; special intervention for recurrent and capital is at NGN200 billion and NGN7 billion;

(xi) that the National Assembly do approves the Promissory Note Programme and Bond Issuance to settle outstanding claims and liabilities of Federal Government owed to States, high priority judgments as well as liabilities incurred by Federal Ministries, Department and Agencies on behalf of Government;

(xii) that the Committee recommends that a quarterly investigative hearing with revenue generating agencies to track their compliance with the Fiscal Responsibility Act and punish those in clear contravention of the Act;

(xiii) that the Committee on Finance review and initiate inquiry into the implementation of the Nigerian Export Supervision Scheme (NESS) Act, specifically focusing on the inspection and monitoring of oil and gas exports by the Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to ensure effectiveness, compliance, and oversight mechanisms under the Act, identify gaps or challenges, and enhance revenue for the Government, through transparency, accountability and efficiency of export supervision in line with national economic objectives;

(xiv) that the Committees on Finance and Customs to initiate an investigative inquiry into the operations of the Import Duty Exemption Certificate (IDEC) program, with a focus on the administration of import waivers and their impact on revenue losses by the Ministry of Finance and the Nigeria Customs Service, as a way of evaluating compliance, identify systemic gaps or irregularities, and recommend measures to enhance transparency, accountability and optimize revenue generation for the nation; and

(xv) that the Committee recommends that a performance metrics be established for MDAs with poor financial reporting standards and mandate regular independent audits of their accounts to ensure compliance.

Debate:
Hon. Kingsley Chinda expressed concern at some of the projections of the report and stated that realistic and current circumstances may not make them achievable, even though he wants to be optimistic. This position was shared by Hon. Aguocha Obinna, Hon. Lalu David as well as Hon. Cyril Godwin.
Hon. James Faleke in his reply stated that the projections take into cognizance national economic improvements as a result of the Federal Government’s policies and strides. This, he expects to continue and that the projections also leave room for adjustment that can be made if necessary. This position was shared by Members such as Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka, Hon. Ahmed Jaha, Hon. Bello El-Rufai, Hon. Chike Okafor, Hon. Clement Jimbo as well as Hon. Sada Soli.

Summary of voting:
Recommendations voted on and adopted: 1-15.

HOUSE IN PLENARY:

The House reverted to plenary and adopted the report of the Committee on Supply following a motion by Hon. Julius Ihonbvere and seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda.

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

A Bill for an Act to Establish Federal University of Agriculture, Ugbawka, Nkanu East, Enugu State to make comprehensive provisions for its Due Management and Administration and for Related Matters (HB. 669) (Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Committee of the Whole: 26/10/2023.

Synopsis of the report:
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere stated that the Bill seeks to establish the University to create jobs and improve the acquisition of knowledge and its application for the good of Nigerians that will study there.

Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-32

A Bill for an Act to Establish Federal College of Medical Laboratory Science and Technology, Eka-Midim, Akwa Ibom State and for Related matters (HB. 1157) (Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Committee of the Whole: 18/7/2024.

Synopsis of the report:
Hon. Julius Inonbvere stated that the Bill seeks to establish the college of medical laboratory science and technology for the good of Nigerians in Akwa Ibom state and its environs. He urged Honorable Members to support it.

Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-36.

A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Medical Centres Act to Establish Federal Medical Centre, Igboho, Oyo State and for Related Matters (HB. 1386) (Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Committee of the Whole: 16/10/2024.

Synopsis of the report:
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere stated that the Bill seeks to amend the Act to establish the medical center for the good of Nigerians in the region.

Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-3.

A Bill for an Act to Provide Establishment of Federal Institute of Fisheries Research, Ogidigben, Delta State and for Related Matters (HB. 822) (Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Committee of the Whole: 6/3/2024.

Synopsis of the report:
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere stated that the Bill seeks the establishment of the institute for development in fisheries research which will contribute to national agricultural and economical development.

Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-8, 10-23
Clause amended and approved: 9

Committee on Specialty Healthcare:

Hon. Alex Egbona:

“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on Specialty Healthcare on a Bill for an Act to Amend the Orthopaedic Hospitals Management Board Act, Cap. O10, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to Provide for Establishment of Orthopaedic Hospital, Billiri, Gombe State to be affiliated to Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe and for Related Matters (HB.1277) approve the recommendations therein” (Laid: 2010/2024)

Synopsis of the report:
Hon. Alex Egbona stated that the Bill seeks to amend the Act and provide for the establishment of the proposed orthopedic hospital for the good of Nigerians in Gombe state and its environs.

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 Hon. Julius Ihonbvere and seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda.

House Adjournment:

The House at 14:28 adjourned plenary to Thursday, November 28th, 2024 by 11:00 A.M following a motion for adjournment moved by the Leader of the House, Hon. Julius Ihonbvere and seconded by the Minority Leader, Hon. Kingsley Chinda.

Courtesy: LightRay! Media and Media Unit, Office of the Speaker, House of Representatives.