NASS: Plenary proceedings, House of Reps, Thur, Feb 6th, 2025

After the recitation of the First stanza of the National Anthem, the National Pledge and opening prayer, the Deputy Speaker…

By admin , in Inside stories , at February 6, 2025 Tags: #LightRayMedia, #NASS, Ejiro Umukoro Publisher and Editor in Chief, House of Representatives, LightRay Media, Nigeria National Assembly, Plenary proceedings motions bills petitions matters of urgent importance

After the recitation of the First stanza of the National Anthem, the National Pledge and opening prayer, the Deputy Speaker approved the votes and proceedings of Wednesday, February 5th, 2025.

ANNOUNCEMENT:

The Committee of the House on the Review of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) announced that it has received requests from various States from the 6 Geopolitical Zones of the Country for the creation of new States and Local Governments. The requests have been reviewed by the Committee and it stressed that the proposed States need to meet certain strict lawful criteria and stipulations. The proposals are therefore to be forwarded with proof of meeting the stipulated criteria to the Clerk of the Committee.

PETITIONS:

Hon. Abdullahi laid a petition on behalf of a community in Delta state against Energy Exploration Ltd. on alleged gross misconduct and neglect of responsibilities.
Hon. Mathew Kuzalio laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against the Nigeria Correctional Service on alleged wrongful termination of his service and called for his reinstatement.
Hon. Etteh Ikpong Okon laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against a Government Agency on alleged denial of salary and other entitlements.
Hon. Rodney Ambiowei laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against an Oil Company on alleged uncleared oil spill in his community as well as alleged neglect of the wellbeing of the citizens.
Hon. Murphy Osaro laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against the Ministry of Interior and some other Agencies under it with the complaints enclosed.
Hon. Obi Akwacha laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against the State House on alleged unlawful dismissal from service.
Hon. Jajere Buba laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against Pan Ocean Oil Company on alleged fragrant abuse of Law, marginalization as well as harassment.
Hon. Matthew Nwogu laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against a Shipping Regulatory Council on alleged arbitrary and inconsistent charges and extortion of participants.
Hon. Jesse Onuakalusi laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against the Nigerian Army on alleged unjust severance of her husband form service.

All petitions were referred to the House

MATTERS OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE:

Hon. Kingsley Chinda moved a motion on a call to protect the environmental integrity, community welfare and uphold the sovereignty of Nigeria by halting the planned divestments of some International Oil Companies (IOC) operating in the Niger Delta region and it was seconded by Hon. Austin Achado. Hon. Chinda in leading the debate stated that the planned shares divestments by such IOCs leave communities in the Niger Delta with unresolved problems with the former companies in the area of their obligations to clean up oil spillage, maintenance of environmental integrity and pipeline servicing. This act he stated leaves the companies with the route of neglecting such responsibilities and liabilities to the communities.

He called on the Federal Government to halt all such divestments until clarification is given by the host communities and State Governments in the Niger Delta region. Hon. Chinda also called on the Upstream Commission to ensure the upholding of all relevant standards before granting any approvals. He called on the House Committee on Host Communities, Petroleum Resources (Upstream) as well as that on Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance.

Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka in contributing to the debate stated that one of the pivotal foundations of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) as passed by the National Assembly is to ensure the safeguarding of host communities from environmental degradation as a result of the activities of these IOCs. He expressed sadness at how the IOCs try to shelve such responsibilities to the host communities when they have almost depleted all the resources therein, embark on such diversements and move on. He called for the enforcement of the percentage of proceeds of the IOCs for host community development as stipulated by Law.

Hon. Alhassan Ado-Doguwa, the Chairman, House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream) commended Hon. Chinda for moving such a sensitive motion which speaks to the nerve of the livelihoods of the Niger Delta people and assured that the Committee will work tirelessly to ensure all the concerns are addressed and the provisions of the PIA that covers the issue is adhered to the latter. He however stated that most of the divestments are mostly to move explorative operations from shallow water to deep water exploration and not to totally abandon the area.

Hon. Terseer Ugbor, Chairman, House Committee on Environment stated that the Committee has noticed that the issue of divestments of IOCs was not properly captured in the PIA and he proposed an amendment for the House Committee on Environment to be incorporated into the referral of the motion. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committees on Petroleum Resources (Upstream), Host Communities, Environment, as well as that on Legislative Compliance

Hon. David Agada moved a motion on the urgent need for intervention on the fire outbreak disaster in a community in Benue state and it was seconded by Hon. Solomon Wombo. Hon. Agada in leading the debate expressed worry at the devastating inferno that engulfed various shops, houses, businesses etc. causing extensive economic losses to the victims. He stated that the victims now have no shelter or source of livelihood. Hon. Agada called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide relief to the victims. He also called on the Federal Fire Service to liaise with the Benue State Fire Service to ensure provision of fire fighting equipment to curtail any future occurrences. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committees on NEMA as well as that on Interior.
Hon. Adamu Tanko moved a motion on a fuel tanker explosion at a junction in Niger state which led to the loss of countless lives and it was seconded by Hon. Mitema Obordor. Hon. Tanko in leading debate stated that the accident has caused untold grief to the victims as it was as a result of a mixture of over speeding of the driver and the nature of the curve of the junction.

He called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) as well as the Ministry of Humanitarian and Social Development to provide relief to the victims. He also called for the constitution of an Ad-Hoc Committee to investigate the remote causes of such incidents and proffer suggestions. Hon. Tanko also called on the Nigeria Police as well as the Federal Road Safety Corps to ensure sensitization of tanker drivers to avert future occurrences.

Hon. Oyedeji Oyeshina proposed an amendment to refer the motion to the House Committee on Safety Standard as well as that on Road Safety, instead of constituting an Ad-Hoc Committee. This position was reiterated by Hon. Mustapha Tijani. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committees on NEMA, Ecological Fund, Road Safety, Safety Standard as well as that on Legislative Compliance.

Hon. Muktar Shagaya moved a motion on the urgent need to declare a state of emergency on the proliferation of fake drugs and food in Nigeria and it was seconded by Hon. Umezuruike Manuchim. Hon. Shagaya in leading the debate stated that the rate at which substandard food, drugs and beverages enter into Nigeria is alarming and this has been confirmed by the World Health Organization. He stated that the National Bureau of Statistics also stated that Nigeria loses huge funds to the importation of these substandard products which also cause high health damage to Nigerians.

Hon. Shagaya called on the Federal Government to strengthen the relevant regulatory agencies such as the Nigeria Customs Service to effectively survey the importation of goods. He also called on the Standard Organization of Nigeria to ensure the adherence to stipulated standards of goods consumed by Nigerians and urged for the enforcement of legal penalties for importers found culpable.

He called on the House Committees on Health, Commerce, Industry as well as that on Legislative Compliance to conduct mechanisms to ensure compliance. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committees on Health, Commerce, Industries, NAFDAC, Customs as well as that on Legislative Compliance.

Hon. Aderemi Oseni moved a motion on the urgent need for Government intervention to stem the tide of incessant gas explosions in Nigeria and it was seconded by Hon. Eze Nwachukwu. Hon. Oseni in leading the debate stated that there is the great need for government intervention to prevent the needless loss of lives and properties from gas explosions whose occurrence is on the rise. He stated that substandard and expired gas cylinders have contributed immensely to the causes of these disasters. Hon. Oseni stated that the number of casualties as a result of these explosions is indeed worrisome and something urgent needs to be done.

He called on the Standard Organization of Nigeria as well as the Nigerian Customs to ensure only standard cylinders, trucks and kits are imported into Nigeria. He further called on the National Orientation Agency to ensure better sensitization of Nigerians on how to identify substandard cylinders and kits. Hon. Oseni called on the House Committee on Gas to investigate the reasons behind the explosions and proffer adequate solutions and that the House Committee on Compliance should ensure compliance.

Hon. Donald proposed an amendment to incorporate the House Committee on Safety Standard to the referral of the motion. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committees on Gas Resources, Safety Standard as well as that on Legislative Compliance.

Hon.Maishinko Mani moved a motion on the urgent need to investigate the bombing of 2 communities in Sokoto state and it was seconded by Hon. Mohammed Shehu. Hon. Maishinko in leading the debate stated that in December, 2024 several individuals lost their lives as a result of a bombing of 2 communities in Sokoto state. He stated that the bombing was as a result of an error by the military who mistook the communities for hideouts of insurgents. Hon. Maishinko expressed worry that this accidents have become a reoccurring problem that has not been resolved by the appropriate authorities. This he stated has left defenseless citizens helpless and devastated.

He called on the Federal Government to provide relief materials and financial assistance to the victims and that a thorough investigation should be carried out to unravel the cause of the attack and that the House Committee on Defense should carry out an independent investigation and report back to the House for further Legislative action. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committees on Defense as well as that on National Emergency Management Agency.

Hon. Alex Egbona moved a motion on the need to keep Nigerians in border communities of Cross Rivers state safe from foreign invaders and it was seconded by Hon. Denis Nwachukwu. Hon. Egbona in leading the debate said that some communities in Cross Rivers state have continued to be ravaged by foreign invaders looking to steal Solid Minerals and other resources. He called on the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police as well as the Department of State Security (DSS) to ensure the lives of the residents within the communities are kept safe. 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 Army, Police, National Intelligence as well as that on Solid Minerals.
Hon. Bitrus Laori moved a motion on the need for proactive measures to curtail the backlash of current realities as a result of some of the decisions taken by President Donald Trump and it was seconded by Hon. Dominic Okafor. Hon. Laori in leading the debate stated that the recent declaration by President Trump to withdraw the United States of America from the World Health Organization is surely to affect funding of agencies that provide special health services for developing countries. Such services include the fight against malaria, HIV-AIDS, Polio, Tuberculosis etc.

He called on the House Committee on Health Services to liaise with relevant Health Agencies of Government to review measures for sourcing alternative funding for such Healthcare Services. He also called on the House Committee on Finance as well as that on Appropriation to also liaise with Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government to ensure compliance. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committees on Health Services, Finance as well as that on Appropriations.

Hon. Ahmed Saba moved a motion on the need to investigate the Water overflow from the Kainji Dam and other dams that destroyed rice plantations in Kwara state and it was seconded by Hon. Yakubu Jafaru. Hon. Saba in leading the debate bemoaned the devastation of rice farms and other agricultural products in the region. He expressed worry why there was no synergy of information between the respective parties to ensure such accidents do not occur.

He called on the House Committees on Ecological Services, Agricultural Production and Services as well as that on Water Resources to investigate and liaise with relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government to ensure such oversights no longer occur. Hon. Saba also called on the National Emergency Management Agency to provide relief farm inputs to the victims and that the House Committee on Legislative Compliance should ensure compliance. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committees on Ecological Services, National Emergency Management Agency, Agricultural Production and Services, Water Resources as well as that on Legislative Compliance.

PRESENTATION OF BILLS:

Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) (Indigene Status by Birth) Bill, 2025(HB. 2057) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu and six others) – First Reading.
Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) (Population Census) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2058) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu and six others) – First Reading.
Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2025 (Citizenship by Investment) (HB. 2059) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu and six others) – First Reading.
Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2025 (Inclusion of Tourism and Tourism-Related Matters in the Concurrent Legislative List) (HB. 2060) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu and six others) – First Reading.
Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2025 (Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation) (HB. 2061) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu and six others) – First Reading.
Central Gaming Bill, 2025 (HB. 2062) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu and six others) – First Reading.
Artificial Intelligence Management and Finance Institute (AIMFIN) (Establishment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2063) (Hon. Usman Zannah) – First Reading.
Federal University of Agriculture and Solid Minerals, Jalingo, Taraba State (Establishment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2064) (Hon. Sadiq Abbas Tafida and five others) – First Reading.
Federal Colleges of Education Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2025) (Hon. Jubrin Abdulmumin) – First Reading.
Child’s Right Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2049) (Hon. Jubrin Abdulmumin) – First Reading.
Dangerous Drugs Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2050) (Hon. Jubrin Abdulmumin) – First Reading.
Bebeji Entrepreneur University, Kano (Establishment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2051) (Hon. Jubrin Abdulmumin) – First Reading.
National Sugar Development Council Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2030) (Hon. Esosa Iyawe) – First Reading.
Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2035) (Hon. Olatunji Akinosi) – First Reading.
Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2040) (Hon. Jubrin Abdulmumin) – First Reading.
Legal Practitioners Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2041) (Hon. Jubrin Abdulmumin) – First Reading.
Advance Fee Fraud and other Fraud Related Offences Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2042) (Hon. Jubrin Abdulmumin) – First Reading.
National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2043) (Hon. Jubrin Abdulmumin) – First Reading.
Administration of Criminal Justice Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2044) (Hon. Jubrin Abdulmumin) – First Reading.
Bank Employee Etc. (Declaration of Assets) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2045) (Hon. Jubrin Abdulmumin) – First Reading.
Compulsory, Free Universal Basic Education Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2046) (Hon. Jubrin Abdulmumin) – First Reading.
Tertiary Education Trust Fund Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2047) (Hon. Jubrin Abdulmumin) – First Reading.
Federal Universities of Agriculture Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1787) (Hon. Blessing Chigeru Amadi) – First Reading.
Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (SB. 297) (Senate) – First Reading.

PRESENTATION OF REPORTS

Committee on Public Procurement:

Hon. Unyime Idem:

“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Public Procurement on a Bill for an Act to Amend the Public Procurement Act, 2007, to Provide for Damage against the Contractors on Issues Relating to undue delay in Completion of Contractor on Issues Relating to undue delay in Completion of Contract and for Related Matters (HB. 03)” (Referred: 9/7/2024)

The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Unyime Idem and seconded by Hon. Alex Ekwechie.

Committee on Public Procurement:

Hon. Unyime Idem:

“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Public Procurement on a Bill for an Act to Amend the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Management of Nigeria Act, 2007 to be in tandem with what obtains in the Procurement Professional Practice across the Globe and for Related Matters (HB.346) ” (Referred: 28/2/2024).

The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Unyime Idem and seconded by Hon. Alex Ekwechie.

Committee on Federal Polytechnics and Higher Technical Education:

Hon. Fuad Kayode Laguda:

“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Polytechnics and Higher Technical Education on a Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Polytechnics Act, Cap. F17, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2024 to Establish Federal Institute of Technology and Entrepreneurship, Bungudu, Zamfara State for the purpose of Providing Qualitative Education in Sciences, Skills, Arts and other Technical Knowledge and for Related Matters and for Related Matters (HB 497)” (Referred: 30/10/2023).

Presentation of the report was stepped down by leave of the House.

Committee on Federal Polytechnics and Higher Technical Education:

Hon. Fuad Kayode Laguda:

“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Polytechnics and Higher Technical Education on a Bill for an Act to Establish National Vocational Centre charged with the Responsibility among other things to Provide Vocational Training for Nigerian Citizens for the Purpose of Modern Industrialization, creating Jobs and Improving National Economic Development and for Related Matters (HB510)” (Referred: 21/2/2024).

Presentation of the report was stepped down by leave of the House.

Committee on Federal Colleges of Education:

Hon. Adamu Tanko:

“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Federal Colleges of Education on a Bill for an Act to Amend the National Teachers’ Institute Act, Cap. N79 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 for the Institute to Constitute the Membership of the Council and provide Nigeria Certificate in Education, Undergraduate, Post Graduate and Research Programmes in Teachers Education and for Related Matters (HB879)” (Referred: 21/5/2024).

The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Adamu Tanko and seconded by Hon. Chike Okafor.

ORDERS OF THE DAY:

BILLS:

A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Polytechnics Act, Cap. F17, Laws of the federation of Nigeria, 2004 and Establish Federal Polytechnic, Sabon Birini, Sokoto State and for Related Matters (HB. 1815) (Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Third Reading.

Debate:
Hon. Abdullahi Ali moved for the third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda. The Bill was voted on, read for the third time and passed.

A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Medical Centres Act, 2022 to Establish Federal Medical Centre, Isa, Sokoto State and for Related Matters (HB. 1818) (Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Third Reading.

Debate:
Hon. Abdullahi Ali moved for the third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda. The Bill was voted on, read for the third time and passed.

A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Polytechnics Act, Cap. F17, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and Establish Federal Polytechnic, Tombia, Rivers State and for Related Matters (HB.1977) (Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Third Reading.

Debate:
Hon. Abdullahi Ali moved for the third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda. The Bill was voted on, read for the third time and passed.

A Bill for an Act to Establish Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Item Bende to make Comprehensive Provisions for its Due Management and Administration and for Related Matters (HB. 25) (Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Third Reading.

Debate:
Hon. Abdullahi Ali moved for the third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda. The Bill was voted on, read for the third time and passed.

A Bill for an Act to Establish Federal University of Agriculture and Entrepreneurship, Bama, Borno State make Comprehensive Provisions for its Due Management and Administration and for Related Matters (SB. 186) (Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Second Reading.

Debate:
Hon. Abdullahi Ali moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the Committee of the Whole.

A Bill for an Act to Establish the Michael Okpara University, Umudike to make Comprehensive Provisions for its Due Management and Administration and for Related Matters (HB.128) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu and six Others) – Second reading.

Debate:
Hon. Kelechi Nwogu moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Aguocha Obinna. Hon. Nwogu in leading the debate stated that the establishment of the University in the region of Abia state would be highly beneficial to Nigerians within the region and it will pose no financial liability for government as it simply seeks to upgrade the existing institution to accommodate much broader functions.

Hon. Aguocha Obinna praised the establishment of the University to improve educational opportunities for Nigerians nationwide. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on University Education.

A Bill for an Act to Enact the Veteran Federation of Nigeria to ensure the proper Welfare and Health condition of the Military Veterans, Expand the Operation and Functions of the Veteran Federation for National Development and for Related Matters (HB. 1950) (Hon. Rufus Ojuawo Adeniyi) – Second Reading.

Debate:
Hon. Rufus Ojuawo moved for the second reading of the Bill. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Defense.

A Bill for an Act to Amend the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act, Cap. C 15 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2024 to insulate Judicial Officers from Prosecution before being Lawfully removed from Office and for Related Matters (HB. 1178) (Hon. Solomon T. Bob) – Second Reading.

Debate:
Hon. Solomon Bob moved for the resumption of debate on the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Ahmed Jaha. Hon. Bob in reiterating his earlier position stated that there seems to be a misconception of the intent of the Bill. It simply seeks to insulate Judicial Officers from political witch-hunt by higher powers while performing their legal duties. He sited the removal of a serving Chief Justice of the Nation through a Tribunal due to the alleged information that it was at the behest of the then President.

Hon. Peter Ifeanyi called for maximum protection of Judicial Officers and sought to clarify that the term immunity is what is bringing the confusion. He however called for caution not to provide blanket protection to erring Officers.

Hon. Patrick Umoh wondered why the Constitution can grant immunity to the Executive and not the Judiciary?

Hon. Kalejaye Paul called for caution in passing the Bill which is inconsistent with the provision of the Constitution. He stated that changing the term from immunity to protection does not distort the fact of the aim of the Bill. He stressed the importance of the role of the Code of Conduct Tribunal in ensuring Public Officers are held accountable when they err. He stated that veering from the provisions of the Constitution as it is can be taken advantage of by other sectors seeking such unlawful immunity or protection.

Hon. Sada Soli stated that Section 292 of the Constitution provides for the protection of such critical Officials while exercising their legitimate duties. He stated that the Code of Conduct is a product of the Military era and trying the former Chief Justice of the Nation (CJN) at the Tribunal without going through the National Judicial Council (NJC) was a violation of legal process. Hon. Soli stated that the Bill simply seeks to set the right path of procedure in quizzing Judicial Officers.

The Presiding Deputy Speaker stated that in light of the explanation by Hon. Sada Soli, the intent of the Bill has become clearer for Members to decide properly. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Anti Corruption as well as that on Justice.

A Bill for an Act to Alter Section 88 (1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) to protect the Welfare of Nigerians working in Private Companies/Organizations and ensure Private Companies/Organizations in the Country fulfill their Financial obligations to the Government of the Federation and for Related Matters (HB.1490) (Hon. Sulaiman Abubakar Gumi) – Second Reading.

Debate:
Hon. Suleaiman Gumi moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Harrison Nwadike. Hon. Gumi in leading the debate stated that private companies and organizations usually hide under lacunae in the Constitution to dodge their obligations to the government and this hinders the National Assembly from properly oversighting them on this front. He stated that the Bill seeks to amend Clause 1 (A & B) of the Act and also seeks to add a sub section (C) to ensure such organizations are properly overnighted by the National Assembly so that they can truly be held responsible for flaunting the rules. 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 Amend the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (Establishment Etc.) Act, 2011 to include Monotechnic as a Tertiary Institution and for Related Matters (HB. 1991) (Hon. Abdulmalik Zubairu) – Second Reading.

Debate:
Hon. Abdullahi Zubairu moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Isa Mohammed. Hon. Zubairu in leading the debate stated that there is a dire need for the inclusion of Monotechnics as Tertiary Institutions as this will aid them gain access to much needed funds from TETFUND for improved training of such individuals as nurses, midwives etc. whose services are critical to national socioeconomic development. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on TETFUND and other Services.

A Bill for an Act to Amend the University Teaching Hospitals (Reconstitution of Board, Etc.) Act Cap. U15, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and for Related Matters (HB.1445) (Hon. Mitema Obordor) – Second Reading.

Debate:
Hon. Mitema Obordor moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Blessing Amadi. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Health Institutions.

MOTIONS:

Need to Complete the Construction of Uwa Junction/Urua Edet Obo/NTO Edino Road in Essien Udim and Obot Akara Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom:

Hon. Patrick Umoh:

The House:

Notes that the Uwa Junction/Urua Edet Obo/to Edino Road is a major road in Akwa Ibom State which runs through Essien Udim and Obot Akara Local Governments Areas, connecting over 40 communities, schools and businesses leading to Abia State of Nigeria;

Also notes that whereas the contract for the construction of the road was awarded sometime in the year 2021 by the Federal Government through the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, the construction of the road has been abandoned owing to poor funding;

Further notes that the abandonment of the construction of the 18-kilometer road has affected several communities, upended the livelihood of the people, stalled transportation of goods and services, and derailed smooth access to education by schoolchildren thereby bringing upon the people of the community untold hardship;

Aware that the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs has since abandoned the construction of the aforementioned road;

Also aware that the people of the community have been exposed to serious hardship, and the road will remain a death trap;

Further aware that the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) is endowed with the budgetary capacity to complete the road, which has more impact on the people and traverses many communities;

Concerned that the aforementioned road had since been removed from the budgets of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, now operating as the Federal Ministry of Regional Development in the past years leading to the abandonment of the road project;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to take over the construction of the Uwa Junction/Urua Edet Obo/Nto Edino Road in Essien Udim and Obot Akara Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom for the completion of the road; and

(ii) mandate the Committees on Niger Delta Development Commission and Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance.

Debate:
Hon. Patrick Umoh moved the motion on the need to complete the construction of Uwa Junction/Urua Edet Obo/NTO Edino road in Essien Udim and Obot Akara Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom state. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Niger Delta as well as that on Legislative Compliance.

Need to Recognize Igbo-Ora World Twins Festival and the Famous Idere Hills, Oyo State as Cultural Heritage and Tourist Centres:

Hon. Anthony Adebayo Adepoju:

The House:

Notes that the internationally acclaimed World Twins Festival aka “Odun lbeji,” was celebrated in Igbo-Ora the headquarters of the Ibarapa Central Local Government Area of Oyo State, with pomp and pageantry on 12 October 2024;

Also notes that Igbo-Ora metropolitan town of about 250,000 indigenes, has the unique reputation of being the headquarters of twins in the whole world, having been credited as the town with the highest number of twins or multiple births per family in Nigeria household, leading other celebrated twin towns in the world like Kodinhi in India, Velikaya Kopanya in Ukraine, and Candido Godoi in Brazil. The town breaks the world record of global average birth rate of twins, which is put at around 12 births per 1000, as Igbo-Ora’s record is close to 50 births per 1000;

Further notes that historically, it is believed that the consumption of okra leaf soup (Ilasa), peculiar to the people of the town, is responsible for the multiple birth rates, while others believe that it was a result of God’s almighty benevolence and compensation upon the community after several disasters that befell them in the olden days. That 500 twins and other people of multiple births, both old and young, physically participated in the last World Twins Festival;

Aware that Ideree Hills,, located at Ideree Town, Ibarapa Central Local Government Area of Oyo State,, is a world-class, breathtaking tourist center, known for its historical significance comprising its lakes of different sizes, relics,, and historical sites dating back 600 years and surrounded by beautiful, serene,, and ambient landscapes, already declared as a tourist center by the Oyo State Government but worthy of international recognition;

Concerned that at this time of the world’s cultural renaissance and consciousness, Nigeria should harness its rich cultural heritage not only for the purpose of showcasing and boosting Nigeria diverse cultures but also promoting the country’s tourism, which could be a mega income earner for the economy;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Federal Ministries of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, and Tourism to avail the Igbo-ora World Twins Festival and ldere Hills both at Igboora and ldere towns respectively in Oyo State of Nigeria every available support and encouragement towards boosting the cultural heritage of the people and the potential tourism advantage of Nigeria; and

(ii) mandate the Committees on Culture and Creative Economy and Tourism to invite the Ministers of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy and Tourism to invite UNESCO to declare the World Twins Festival in Igbo-Ora as a World Intangible Cultural Heritage and Idere Hills as a world Tourist Center.

Debate:
Hon. Anthony Adepoju moved the motion on the need to recognize
Igbo-Ora World Twins Festival and the Famous Idere Hills, Oyo State as cultural heritage and tourist centers and it was seconded by Hon. Ali Taofeek. Hon. Adepoju in leading the debate stated that the Igbo-Ora World Twins Festival recently held and attracted a large attendance of people from various parts of the world and it is only apt that the festival as well the Idere Hills be accorded the requested, proposed individual elevated status. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Culture and Creative Economy as well as that on Tourism.

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

A Bill for an Act to Establish Pharmaceutical Technologists and Pharmacy Technicians Regulatory Council of Nigeria to be vested with responsibility of determining Standards of knowledge and Skills to be attained by persons seeking to become Pharmaceutical Technologist and Pharmacy Technicians and for Related Matters (HB.345) – Committee of the Whole:23/11/2024.

Synopsis of the report:
Hon. Abubakar Fulata stated that the Bill seeks the establishment of the proposed Council to regulate the functions of practicing Pharmacists in Nigeria. This is to ensure the highest level of professionalism in discharging their duties for the health benefits of their patients.

Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-30

A Bill for an Act to Establish Nigerian Institute of Chartered Foresters and for Related Matters (HB. 896) – Committee of the Whole: 8/2/2024.

Synopsis of the report:
Hon. Abubakar Fulata stated that the Bill seeks to regulate the profession of Forestry as well as to regulate the qualifications and professionalism of those seeking to practice in the sector.

Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-20.

Committee on Commerce:

Hon. Ahmed Munir:

“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on Commerce on a Bill for an Act to Establish Institute of Leadership, Entrepreneurship and Corporate Governance and for Related Matters (HB.1681) and approve the recommendations therein” (Laid: 17/12/2024).

Synopsis of the report:
Hon. Ahmed Munir stated that the Bill seeks to ensure training and certification in the areas of leadership, entrepreneurship and corporate governance in order to enhance professionalism in the discharge of these very critical functions.

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

Hon. Sada Soli rose to urge the House to ensure that whatever is passed from the Parliament to the Executive is exactly what was passed and not distorted when it goes for cleaning up in the Legal Department under the National Assembly Management. This is so that the declining of Presidential Assent for Bills due to minor errors will cease to occur, as it is embarrassing.

The Presiding Deputy Speaker urged Hon. Sada Soli to bring the issue up as a substantive motion on the Floor of the House as it is very important for the reputation of Parliament. He stated that it is necessary for the House to get a copy of what has been cleaned up by the Legal Department to sign off on before onward transmission to the President for Assent.

HOUSE IN PLENARY:

The House reverted to plenary and adopted the report of the Committee of the Whole following a motion by Hon. Abubakar Fulata and seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda.

House Adjournment:

The House at 14:46 adjourned plenary to Tuesday, February 11th, 2025 by 11:00 A.M following a motion for adjournment moved by Hon. Abubakar Fulata and seconded by the Minority Leader, Hon. Kingsley Chinda.

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