Plenary Proceedings, Thursday, at the Nigeria National Assembly

Plenary proceedings of the House of Representatives for Thursday, July 20th, 2023.

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

After leading the opening prayer and recitation of the national pledge, the Deputy Speaker approved the Votes and Proceedings of Wednesday, July 19th, 2023.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS:

1. The National Assembly Service Commission asks Honorable members to submit the complete list of their proposed legislative aides before the expiry period in August.
2. Membership constitution of Ad-Hoc committees:

I. Membership of the Ad-Hoc Committee to Investigate the Increase in Fuel Price was announced, and it is to be chaired by Hon. Babajimi Benson.

II. Membership of the Ad-Hoc Committee to Investigate the Adulterated Fuel was announced, and it is to be chaired by Hon. Aliyu Sani Madaki.

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PETITIONS:

1. Hon. Patrick Umoh laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against a private organization in Akwa Ibom State on the alleged unlawful termination of his appointment. He craved the intervention of the House in resolving the issue.
2. Hon. Olumide Osoba laid a petition on behalf of some complainants against the military forces who are allegedly on the verge of forcefully evacuating families in over 5,000 homes in some communities of Ogun state. He craved the quick intervention of the House on the issue.

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

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MATTERS OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE:

1. Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi moved a motion on the Urgent Need to Call for an an Early Response and Intervention System to Avert Devastation by Flooding Within Ndokwa/Ukwani Federal Constituency of Delta State, and it was seconded by Hon. Frederick Agbedi.
   Hon. Ezechi in leading the debate called on the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Preparedness, Social Development, the Commission on Internally Displaced Persons and Refugees, as well as the House Committee on Ecological Disaster when constituted to find out the long lasting measures that can be taken to urgently help the flood victims of the communities and ensure such reoccurrences are well prepared for in future.
   The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on Ecology, Human Affairs as well as that on NEMA when constituted.
2. Hon. Tunji Olawuyi moved a motion on the Urgent Need for the the Investigation of Incidents of the Supply of Contaminated Aviation Fuel that Causes Safety Hazards to Travelers Within the Nigerian Aviation Sector, and it was seconded by Hon. Felix Nweke.
   Hon. Olawuyi in leading the debate stated that the contaminated aviation fuel falls far below the approved international aviation standards. He also stated that such contaminated aviation fuel has led to the grounding of flights of some unsuspecting airlines.
   Hon. Olawuyi also expressed concern at the frequent incidents of such occurrences now recorded. He called for the constitution of an Ad-Hoc committee to investigate the increasing incidents and report back to the House within 8 weeks for further legislative action.

Hon. Mohammed Kazaure proposed an amendment to reduce the time frame allotted for the investigation from 8 weeks to 4 weeks. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the Ad-Hoc Committee when constituted.

3. Hon. Aliyu Abubakar moved a motion on a Call to Halt the Persistent Attacks of Shootings, Killings, Kidnappings and Banditry in Communities of Katsina State, and it was seconded by Hon. Ginger Onwusibe.
   Hon. Abubakar in leading the debate bemoaned the high level of continuous attacks and insecurity in the affected communities. He also expressed sadness at the frequent rate of killings and kidnappings as it affects everyone in the community, including him personally as he lost a relative and had to pay ransom for the release of a kidnapped victim . Hon. Abubakar therefore called on all relevant security and administrative agencies of government to ensure peace and normalcy is restored.

Hon. Bappa proposed an amendment calling on the House to direct the new Service Chiefs to immediately deploy their personnel to the region in order to curb the incessant violence. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the relevant security Committees of the House when constituted.

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PRESENTATION OF BILLS:

1. Federal College of Education, Omu Aran Kwara State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 185) (Hon. Abdu –Raheem Tunji Olawuyi) – First Reading
2. Food Processing and Preservation Centre, Osi Ekiti, Kwara State (establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 186) (Hon. Abdu –Raheem Tunji Olawuyi) – First Reading
3. Central Bank of Nigeria Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 187) (Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi) – First Reading.
4. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2023 (HB. 188) (Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi) – First Reading.
5. Central Bank of Nigeria Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 189) (Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi) – First Reading.
6. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2020 (HB. 190) (Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi) – First Reading.
7. Federal University Minna, Bill, 2023 (HB. 191) (Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi) – First Reading.
8. Tertiary Education Trust Fund (Establishment) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 192) (Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi) – First Reading.
9. Standards Organisation of Nigeria, Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 193) (Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi) – First Reading.
10. Religious Discrimination (Prohibition, Prevention) Bill, 2023 (HB. 194) (Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi) – First Reading.
11. National Shea Development Council (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 195) (Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi) – First Reading.
12. Central Bank of Nigeria Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 196) (Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi) – First Reading.
13. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2023 (HB. 197) (Hon. Ikeagwuonu Onyinye Ugochinyere) – First Reading.
14. Joint Admissions and Matriculations Board Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 198) (Hon. Ikeagwuonu Onyinye Ugochinyere) – First Reading.
15. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2023 (HB. 199) (Hon. Ikeagwuonu Onyinye Ugochinyere) – First Reading.
16. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2023 (HB. 200) (Hon. Ikeagwuonu Onyinye Ugochinyere) – First Reading.
17. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2023 (HB. 201) (Hon. Ikeagwuonu Onyinye Ugochinyere) – First Reading.
18. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2023 (HB. 202) (Hon. Ikeagwuonu Onyinye Ugochinyere) – First Reading.
19. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2023 (HB. 203) (Hon. Ikeagwuonu Onyinye Ugochinyere) – First Reading.
20. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2023 (HB. 204) (Hon. Ikeagwuonu Onyinye Ugochinyere) – First Reading.

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ORDERS OF THE DAY:

BILL:

1. A Bill for an Act to Amend the Electricity Act 2023 to Address Concerns of host Communities and for Related Matters (HB.38) (Hon. Babajimi Benson) – Second Reading.

Debate:

Hon. Babajimi Benson moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Shetima Ali. Hon. Benson stated that it is important to note that the amendment of the Bill seeks to ensure communities in states are enabled to generate their own power and distribute to recipients, thereby adding to the national grid of the country.

The Deputy Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu praised the spirit of the Bill and stated that the Bill is aimed at consolidating what was already signed by previous governments. He however stated that it is to be amended for States to be able to generate their own power and help the national grid which is a worldwide practice in power generation and distribution. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the Committee of the Whole.

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MOTIONS:

2. Reconsideration of Outstanding Bills from the Preceding Assembly:
   Hon. Julius Ihonvere:
   (i) Federal Polytechnic, Rano, Kano State Bill, 2023 (HB.92).
   (ii) Chartered Institute of Business Administration of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 139).
   (iii) Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB. 160).

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 re-gazetted as HBs. 92, 140 and 160 and read the first time, respectively;

Resolves to:

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

The motion was stepped down by leave of the House following a request by Hon. Julius Ihonvbere and seconded by Hon. Aliyu Madaki.

3. Need to Construct 330/132/33KVA X150mva, 2X60MVA Transmission Substation at Anyigba to improve Electricity Supply to the Kogi East.
   Hon. Abdullahi Ibrahim Halims:

The House:

Notes that Kogi East zone comprises of nine LGAs namely: Ankpa, Olamaboro, Omala, Dekina, Bassa, Ofu, Idah, ibaji and Igalamela and it is one of the strategic zone in the state that shares border with Enugu, Anambra, Edo and Benue State;

Also notes that Kogi East is the zone that Houses Quarry Industries and other government institution like Kogi State University, General and zonal sawmilling factories, cassava processing mills Hospitals, Army Barrack, Commercial Banks, recreational facilities, Filling stations;

Aware that Geregu Power Station and some 33kv/11kv project lines and other distribution project lines are sited in the zone, some of which are completed and others are at advance stage of completion;

Worried that as strategic as this zone is to the State and the country, the zone cannot boast of steady and regular power supply; and

Concerned that as important as these facilities are, if a transmission substation is not constructed to boost the distribution of electricity in the zone, the facilities will be underutilized and becomes dilapidated;

Resolves to:
(i) Urge the Federal Ministry of Power through its Agency the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to ensure the provision of Fund for the Construction of 330/132/33KVA 2x150MVA, 2x60MVA Transmission Substation at Anyigha in 2024 Budget Estimates; and

(ii)​ Mandate Committees on Power and Appropriation (when Constituted) to ensure compliance.

Debate:

Hon. Abdullahi Halims moved the motion on the need to construct 330/132/33KVA X150mva, 2X60MVA transmission substation at Anyigba to improve electricity supply to Kogi East, and it was seconded by Hon. Tijani Zakariya’u.

Hon. Okafor proposed an amendment calling on the Transmission Company of Nigeria to include all other Constituencies so lacking in power to the prayer of the motion.

Hon. Chined Ogah further proposed an amendment to prayer 3, calling on the Ministry of Power to build power plants to link all other affected communities in Kogi State to the national grid. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committee on Power, as well as that on Appropriation when constituted.

4. Need to Investigate the delay in Capturing and Payment for Nnamdi Azikiwe University Workers and other Nigerians in the Integrated Payroll and Personal Information System (IPPIS).
   Hon. Lillian O. Orogbu:

The House:

Notes that Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka is a Federal Accredited University by the National Universities Commission of Nigeria, an institution where the revered foremost nationalist, the Late Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe was immotalized and honoured with a Federal University in his father land, Anambra State;

Also notes that in 2019, the University Governing Council upon approval for recruitment embarked on recruitment for teaching and non-teaching staff and the recruited staff were directed to register and enrol with the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) platform for the payment of staff salaries and monthly emoluments, between this period 2019 till date, only a few Workers have been captured and paid leaving majority of the workers working for the university for a period of three years and above without salary;

Aware that the Federal Government of Nigeria in October 2006 conceptualized the idea for Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (|PPIS), which commenced in April 2007, to improve the effectiveness and efficiency in storing Nigerian workers’ personnel records and administrations monthly payroll to enhance workers confidence for prompt salary payment directly to Government employees bank account with appropriate deductions and remittances of third party payment;

Also aware that there is a massive Nationwide complaint on the unjustified delay for capture and non-payment of workers’ allowances, non-remittance of loans to bank, unexplained deductions, non-issuance of pay slips and unbelievable delay to capturing newly employed workers in the platform; and

Cognizant that if urgent measures are not taken to rescue, capture and pay the helpless workers of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka and the other Nigerian workers in the Universities and MDAs who are having the same challenge with the current economic realities, their lives and that of their families will be in danger;

Resolves to:

invite the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Accountant-General of the Federation, the Managers of (|PPIS) and other relevant stakeholders to appear before the Committees on Governmental Affairs and Tertiary Education Services (when constituted) to capture and immediately pay the Workers of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Anambra State and other Nigerian workers facing the same challenge and report back within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.

Debate:

Hon. Lillian Orogbu moved the motion on the need to investigate the delay in capturing and payment for Nnamdi Azikiwe University workers and other Nigerians in the Integrated Payroll and Personal Information System (IPPIS), and it was seconded by Hon. Satomi Ahmed.
Hon. Orogbu in leading the debate expressed sadness on the fact that despite the measures by the House of Representatives during the 9th Assembly to ensure the plight of lecturers is addressed, many university workers have still not been captured on the IPPIS payment system and the hardship they feel cannot be overemphasized.

The Deputy Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu reminded Honourable members that there was an intervention committee set up by the Office of the Speaker of the House during the 9th House of Representatives, and being a member of that committee, he expressed surprise that the report was not implemented. This is especially considering the importance of education to the nation and the realities of the economic situation Nigerians are currently facing.
Hon. Kalu praised the implementation of the IPPIS system for the sake of accountability, but stressed that it should not be used to punish some sectors of the economy.

Hon. Matthew proposed an amendment to ensure those who are supposed to capture the workers’ details are not part of those who are racketeering in the first place.

Hon. Ozodinobi George proposed an amendment to ensure that all affected bodies should be invited to discuss the anomalies of the issue therein.

Hon. Agbedi Frederick expressed sadness at the plight of teachers and lecturers in Nigeria as they seem to be continuously deprived of their due entitlements for their services rendered.
He called on the federal government to pay special attention to this matter as it is indeed saddening and disheartening. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committee on Tertiary Education as well as that on Government Affairs when constituted.

5. Suspense Over Planned Electricity Tariff Hike.
   Hon. Aliyu Sani Madaki:

The House:

Notes that recently, Distribution Companies (DISCOS) alerted customers of a planned electricity tariff hike hinged on the Multi-Year Tariff Oder (MYTO);

Also notes that the circular issued by DISCOS stated that effective July 1, 2023, there would be an upward review of the electricity tariff influenced by fluctuating rates;

Aware that under the MYTO, 2022 guidelines, the previous exchange rate of N 441/$1 may be revised to approximately N750/$1 which would have an impact on the tariffs associated with electricity consumption;

Also aware that under the planned hike, consumers within ‘B’ and ‘C’ with supply hours ranging from 12–16 hours per day will pay N100 per KWh, while Bands ‘A’ with 20 hours and above and ‘B’ with 16–20 hours, would experience comparatively higher tariffs, that is, for customers with a prepaid metre, whereas, for those on post-rand (estimated) billing, a significant increment is expected to be higher;

Concerned about the widespread apprehension in the country over the planned introduction of a new electricity tariff regime by the Distribution companies (DISCOS);

Also concerned that the recent statement by the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) directing its consumers to disregard the earlier notice of the increase in the electricity tariffs hike is confusing as members of the public are confused as to what to believe;

Further concerned that the proposed increase is coming despite the inability of the operators to meet the threshold of supplying at least 5,000 megawatts per year after signing the contract with the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC);

Believes that it is most inappropriate and insensitive to come up with a price increase of such magnitude at this time when many Nigerians are yet to come to terms with the increase in petrol prices;

Cognizant that the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), in Section 16 (2) (b), has provided “that the material resources of the nation be harnessed and distributed as best as possible to serve the common good”;

Worried that at this point in time, the proposed increment of electricity tariff by the DISCOs is not in the best interest of the average Nigerian Citizen, neither is it for the common good of the citizenry; and

Also worried that the proposed increment is an exploitation of the common citizen, which is not in line with Section 17 (2) (d) of the Constitution which states that the “exploitation of human resources in any form whatsoever for reasons other than the good of community should be prevented.”

Resolves to:

(i) Urge the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) not to approve any increase in electricity tariff in Nigeria; and

(ii) Mandate the Committee on Power (when constituted) to interface with NERC with a view to finding a common ground to addressing the proposed hike in the interest of Nigerian.

Debate:

Hon. Aliyu Sani Madaki moved the motion on suspense over planned electricity tariff hike. Hon. Madaki in leading the debate stated that the motion is hinged on the Nigerian constitution, as well as for the good of the socioeconomic wellbeing of all Nigerians. He expressed sadness at the rate at which the electricity companies increase the electricity tariffs without due consideration to the plight of Nigerians.

Hon. Babajimi Benson in his contribution stated that there is a corresponding need to speak to the DISCOs and GENCOs as they too suffer the rise in cost of distribution and generation of electricity. He called for a balance on both divides of the debate.

The Deputy Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu stated that indeed it is a condition of being caught in between both sides of debate for Nigerians and private sector companies who are also Nigerians facing the realities of the market force.

Hon. Bamidele Salam stated that the debate is truly dicey as the market forces in dealing with privatized companies should not be seen to be over suffocated by undue regulations which will discourage investors. He called for the implementation of a free market economy and instead increase parameters that will improve the buying power of Nigerians.

Hon. Olumide Osoba reminded Honourable members that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assented to the Electricity Bill, so the House can oversight the Bill to ensure market forces can drive competition that can make stakeholders from different zones of the federation reduce prices.

Hon. Ahmed Satomi called for scrutiny on the price of electricity that the GENCOs provide power for distribution to the DISCOs. He wondered why the end user has to pay so much when the shortage of service seems to be coming from the DISCOs. He stated that this is a good way that palliatives can be given to Nigerians, by ensuring they don’t pay more than necessary for power consumption.

Hon. Ali Isa called for caution in handling the motion as it has direct impacts on the wellbeing of Nigerians. He stated that government needs to be seen to be sensitive to the plight of Nigerians especially as they have not received palliatives to cushion the effects of the fuel price hike, as well as the removal of the fuel subsidy regime.

Hon. Dachung Bagos reiterated that there is need to investigate the operations of the DISCOs so that the burden is not suffered by only one sector of Nigerians. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Power when constituted.

6. Need to Fund the Rehabilitation of Otukpo, Obollo-Afor, 9th Mile Road.

Hon. Dennis Nnamdi Agbo​​​​​, Hon. Stainless Nwodo, Hon. Mark Chidi Obetta​​​​​ and Hon. Sunday Umehia:
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The House:

Notes that the Otukpo, Obollo-Afor , Opi, Ukehe, Okpatu, 9th mile Road, a Trunk A road, is the main gateway between Northern Nigeria, through the middle belt, and South-East Nigeria. This strategic road, with several arterial spurs, is the main route for mass transit, haulage of goods and evacuation of agricultural produce between the South and Northern Nigeria, including the FCT;

Concerned that sections of this strategic road between Otukpa in Benue state, Inyi, Amalla and Obollo-Afor, and between Opi, Ukehe and Okpatu in Udi, Enugu state have for over two years become dilapidated, abandoned and impassable, resulting in travellers having to detour into remote and unsafe “Appian” routes, thereby becoming vulnerable and regular victims of armed robbery, extortion, kidnapping and death;

Aware that this abandoned section is part of a road construction contract awarded to RCC in 2015 that had progressed from the Otukpo end up to Otukpa, Benue State, (57km) and backward from 9th mile to Okpatu (16km), while the in-between section, a total of 74km (or approximately 50% of the Project), is completely abandoned;

Concerned that the unreasonably long duration of this particular project has imposed expensive cost on government and the people due to numerous upward contract reviews, mobilisation and remobilisation to site; as well as immeasurable human cost to commuters, delayed travel time and damage to vehicles, and ceasure of economic activities, insecurity and misery to citizens;

Also aware that the Federal Government has recently concessioned the construction and dualization of the road stretch from Abuja to Keffi, to Akwanga, to Makurdi, and through Otukpo to Enugu, to a Chinese company, Messrs China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) on a Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) agreement, of which this strategic road forms a part. Work on the road concession has started and is progressing only from the Abuja – Keffi end;

Convinced that the contemplation of government for concessioning, or any other measure for sustainable management of our highways, is not to shut down the wellbeing and economic and social life of the citizens;

Worried that as a result of the concessioning, the RCC contract has been cancelled and withdrawn such that any hope of immediate attention to this failed road through the contract dims; and

Believes that notwithstanding the desirability of the consessioning arrangement, the plight of commuters and residents who have endured the harrowing experience along this road for years, must now be addressed without further delay;

Resolves to:

(i) Urge the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to urgently carry out remedial rehabilitation work on the failed portion of the road so as to restore movement, security and economic life between the affected areas, save the huge losses and reverse the heavy toll on human capital;

(ii) Mandate the Committee on Works to investigate the status of the RCC Contract, and ensure progress and speedy completion of the road concession by the Chinese Company; and

(iii) Also mandate the Committee on Legislative Compliance to ensure implementation.

Debate:

Hon. Dennis Agbo moved the motion on the need to fund the rehabilitation of Otukpo, Obollo-Afor, 9th Mile road, and it was seconded by Hon. Emeka Chinedu. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on FERMA when constituted.

7. Need for The Multichoice Digital Satellite Television (DSTV) and other Service Providers to Introduce the Pay As You Go Tariff (PAYG) Plan in Nigeria.
   Hon. Kafilat Ogbara:
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   The House:

Notes that Section 2 (b) of the National Broadcasting Commission Act empowers the National Broadcasting Commission to regulate the ownership activities or operations of Radio and Television Stations, as well as Direct Broad-cast Satellite Service Providers;

Also notes that there are currently over 10 Direct- To-Home Service Providers operating in Nigeria which are all rendering paid services on a prepaid basis;

Further notes that the leading Direct-To-Home Service Providers in Nigeria, is Multichoice DSTV launched in 1995 with about 12.8 million subscribers, which is largest market for its operations;

Aware that DSTV and other Direct-To-Home Service Providers have deliberately refused to implement the Pay As You Go Tariff Plan but rather charge users on a fixed monthly tariff plan, unlike what is obtainable outside Nigeria;

Also aware that Nigeria constitutes 40% of DSTV’s global market share, yet Over 409% of the citizens do not use a greater part of their paid monthly tariff due to engagements that take them from one location to the other on a daily basis, hence they cannot access the services upon expiration, whether or not they used their previous subscriptions until they renew it for another month;

Disturbed that DSTV operates a Pay As You Go Tariff Plan in other Countries but has chosen to exploit Nigerians through a fixed monthly Tariff Plan;

Concerned that Multi Choice Digital Satellite has in the past arbitrarily increased its tariffs and have recently announced an increase in its tariffs without considering the standard of living of Nigerians even as a corporate social responsibility;

Concerned that Nigerian viewers are unable to access local Television stations once the said monthly subscriptions expires;

Disturbed that the average monthly tariff charged by DSTV is eight thousand naira, if multiplied by 11.9 million subscribers, it makes up a whooping sum of about 100 billion naira monthly a rough statistical deduction which evidence the extent of exploitation by Multichoice, owners of DSTV, constitutes economic sabotage against Nigerians;

Aware that preceding National Assemblies passed several resolutions on similar motions, but unfortunately little or no positive results were actually achieved from the decisions taken then;

Resolves to:

(i) Urge the Federal Government of Nigeria to direct Multichoice and other direct-to-home broadcast service providers to implement a Pay As You Go Tariff Plan;

(ii) Urge the National Broadcasting Commission to invoke its powers under the National Broadcasting Commission Act to ensure that viewers can access Local channels whether or not there is a running subscription;

(iii) Urge the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission to live up to its responsibilities as provided for under the Act and put reasonable checks to prevent future arbitrary increase in tariffs;

(iv) Mandate the Committees on Information Technology and Telecommunications to liaise with relevant Federal Government Ministries, Agencies and Companies to work out modalities for the smooth implementation of the Pay As You Go (PAYG) tariff plan by broadcast Satellite Service Providers with a view to ensuring strict compliance with the tariff plan and report back within four (4) weeks.

Motion stepped down by leave of the House as it is presently a subject of litigation.

8. Need to Amend Order Twelve, Rule 16 of the Standing Orders, 10th Edition, 2020 to Allow a Bill Process Continue Before or After Presentation of Report by the Committee.

Hon. Mohammed Danjuma Hassan:

The House:

Notes that the Standing Orders of the House of Representatives does not provide that the Bill process shall continue before or after presentation of the Committee’s report, but before consideration; and

Worried that if, before or after presentation of report by the Committee, the Bill process would start de-novo, then the resources committed, Members’ energy used, public funds and time spent by the House of Representatives for the Bill to get to that stage would be considered a waste and fruitless effort by the House;

Resolves to:

Direct the Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of Standing Orders to Amend Order Twelve, Rule 16 of the Standing Orders, Tenth Edition, 2020 to provide that where the Committee completes a legislative action on a Bill before presenting its report at the floor, or where a report has been presented but before consideration, a Bill process shall continue instead of starting afresh.

Motion stepped down by leave of the House in order to allow the Ad-Hoc Committee handling the matter do its job.

9. Urgent Response to Flood Disaster in Parts of Ebonyi State.

Hon. Chinedu Ogah:

The House:

Notes that the recent devastating flood across the country, especially in the flood prone Communities of Amagu Ikwo, Ndeagu Echara Enyimagu Ikwo, Igbudu, Alike, Idembia and Ekpa Omaka in all Ikwo/Ezza South Federal Constituency of Ebonyi State;

Also notes that the flood and persistent heavy downpour witnessed over this rainy season have resulted in the tragic loss of lives, collapsed houses, displaced residents and washed away farmland;

Aware that the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) in its Annual Flood outlook, categorized the likely impact of this year’s flood as ranging from moderate to severe, the current general impact in most communities in Ebonyi State has been very severe as most affected areas remain submerged;

Concerned that according to the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency Advisory, there are still many more days of rainfall in the year and more flood may still be expected in the months ahead;

Worried that the affected communities now have to live poorly organized centers, like school buildings under almost non-existent sanitary condition; and

Also worried that if steps are not urgently taken there may be an outbreak of avoidable epidemic in these communities that do not even have standard medical facilities;

Resolves to:

(i) Urge the Federal government to consider the immediate evacuation and resettlement of affected Communities from the flood prone and ravaged areas to temporary displaced persons camp;

(ii) Mandate the Ministry of Humanitarian affairs and the National Emergency Management Agency, (NEMA) to provide relief materials to the flood affected areas; and

(iii) Urge the Federal Government to immediately provide economic intervention programme to cushion the effect of this disaster.

Debate:

Hon. Chinedu Ogah moved the motion on the urgent response to flood disaster in parts of Ebonyi State, and it was seconded by Hon. Idu Emeka. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on Emergency and Disaster Preparedness when constituted.

10. Need to Improve Welfare Package for Members of the Armed Forces by Full Implementation of the Manual of Financial Administration for the Armed Forces of Nigeria (MAFA) 2017.

Hon. Abdulsamad Dasuki:

The House:

Notes that the need for full implementation of welfare package for the Armed as contained the Manual of Financial Administration for the Armed Forces of Nigeria (MAFA) 2017;

Aware of the comprehensive manual, signed by former President Muhammadu Buhari with an effective date of November 27, 2017, outlines an improved welfare package for the brave men and women of the Armed Forces;

Observes that despite the existence of manual of Financial Administration for the Armed Forces of Nigeria (MAFA) and its clear requirements for the disbursement of allowances to personnel, there have been complaints of minimal compliance, which ultimately demoralizes dedicated members of the Armed Forces; and

Concerned about the failure to fully implement the manual of Financial Administration for the Armed Forces of Nigeria (MAFA) that will subsequently impact the welfare and well-being of the Armed Forces personnel;

Resolves to:

(i) Fully approve the armed forces request in the 2024 budget estimate to ensure adequate resources are allocated for the welfare of its personnel; and

(ii) Mandate the Committees on Defense, Army, Navy, and Airforce to assess all armed forces welfare packages to determine their status and make necessary improvements;

Motion stepped down by leave of the House.

11. Need to Ensure Beijing Declaration on 35% Affirmative Action on Women’s Appointment into Positions.

Hon. Billy Osawaru:

The House:

Aware that Nigeria as a member of the United Nations signed and ratified the several applicable international instruments, agreements and conventions without reservation, including the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action 1995. These instruments have always highlighted that member nations put in place all the necessary apparatuses needed to eliminate gender discriminations, ensure equality and human dignity to all, men and women;

Also aware that the National Gender Policy (NGP) has formulated a 35% Affirmative Action (AA) in Nigeria since 2006. This policy demands that 35% of women be involved in all governance processes;

Concerned that the NGP is recognized but is not practiced as expected thereby leaving our country behind many other African Countries like Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa and Namibia that have grown their women participation to over 40%, and many global reports do not speak good of our country in this regard;

Notes that the 2022 World Gender Gap report revealed that Nigeria ranks 123rd out of a total of 146 countries while another 2022 report by the Gender Strategy Advancement International (GSAI), a nongovernmental organization, showed that Nigeria ranked 181 of 193 countries on the Gender Equality Index, for countries with low women representation in governance;

Also notes that in no time, our dear President, His Excellency Ahmed Bola Tinubu, who has being proactive since assuming office, will be appointing and inaugurating his cabinet to help pilot the affairs of the country;

Observes that Nigerian women have continued to excel in Nigeria and other countries, serving in high-level positions in these countries and doing very well in the private sector but yet to be accorded this 35% status in Nigeria;

Worried that in the President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration of 2015- 2019 and 2019-2023, the then President reneged on his promises to Nigerian women as he appointed only six women out of the 36 cabinet ministers, representing about 16 per cent; and

Further worried that despite the clamours for improvement in women participation in politics and other sectors across the globe, Nigeria seems to be going in a wrong direction since 1999 till date. Out of over 2,657 legislators (both Senate and Reps) only about 157 women have been inaugurated into the National Assembly;

Resolves to:

Urge Mr. President to consider the declaration on 35% affirmative action on women participation in governance as he comes up with his cabinet list.

Debate:

Hon. Billy Osawaru moved the motion on the need to ensure Beijing declaration on 35% Affirmative Action on Women’s Appointment into positions, and it was seconded by Hon. Usman Balami. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on Women Affairs when constituted.

12. Need for Nigeria to lead the effort for a reform of the United Nations Security Council.

Hon. Ahmed Munir:

The House:

Notes that the United Nations Security Council is responsible for maintaining international peace and security, with the authority to make decisions obligated to member states under the United Nations Charter;

Also notes that of the fifteen members,five permanent members known as the P5, with veto power including China, France, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. The other 10 non-permanent members are elected for a two-year term by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA);

Aware that only four independent African countries represented the continent when 50 representatives of different countries met in San Francisco, California, in 1945 to complete the Charter of the United Nations, with the current 54 African member countries of the United Nations it is unattainable that only four African states, namely Egypt, Liberia, Ethiopia, and South Africa were part of the founding members of the UN and therefore the majority of African countries were not in San Francisco in 1945 to represent their own interests in the creation of the United Nations Security Council due to colonialism;

Also aware that after the demise of colonialism across Africa in the 1960s, the newly independent countries not only became active members of the United Nations, but also contributed significantly to the UN, particularly in peacekeeping missions around the world;

Concerned that Africa remains unrepresented in the permanent category of the United Nation Security Council (UNSC) , hence the urgent need to reform the body to maintain its relevance in the twenty-first century to address the current global challenges;

Cognizant that Africa constitutes more than a quarter of the Organization’s Member States, the largest group, with 28 percent of the UN membership. The Asia group comes next with 27 percent, while the Americas constitute 17 percent. The region of Western Europe which constitutes 15 percent;

Also cognizant that over the years Africa has been the subject of at least 70 per cent of the Councils work and hence the more reason that Africa ought to be appropriately represented in the permanent membership of the Council to more effectively make its own case as there is a rapidly growing recognition that peace and security, economic and social development, as well as human rights, are part and parcel of one global agenda; and

Further notes that of the growing trend in the Security Council to defer to Africa’s regional peace and security bodies, such as the African Union, the Southern African Development Community and the Economic Community of West African States when a threat to international peace and security emerges; and

Convinced that with Africa’s significant contributions to UN peacekeeping operations and its status as the largest regional group of UN members, it becomes imperative that the continent be fully represented as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council;

Resolves to:

(i) Urge the Federal Government of Nigeria to lead the effort, establishing a systematic framework as a matter of justice and human rights, and galvanize the African Union to reach a collective decision and come up with reform proposals that include at least two seats for Africa on The United Nations Security Council;

(ii) Also urge the Federal Government to form an international coalition to be charged with high-level engagements required to embark on a global diplomatic tour to solicit the political support needed for the agreed reform proposals;

(iii) Further urge the Federal Government to form an international coalition to initiate the steps at the UNGA to introduce a resolution to amend the UN Charter to reflect the proposed changes of the reform of the United Nations Security Council; and

(iv) Mandate the committees on Foreign Affairs, Co-operation and Integration in Africa, Treaties, Protocols and Agreements, and Legislative Compliance (when constituted) to ensure compliance.

Debate:

Hon. Ahmed Munir moved the motion on the need for Nigeria to lead the effort for a reform of the United Nations Security Council, and it was seconded by Hon. Oladimeji Alao-Akala.

Hon. Kingsley Chinda proposed an amendment calling for the deletion of prayers 1-3 and insert a prayer calling on the relevant Committees of the House such as that on Foreign Affairs and that on Treaties and Protocols to study the case of Nigeria’s bid in the Security Council of the United Nations and advise the House within 4 weeks.
The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House committees on Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Integration, Treaties and Protocol, as well as that on Legislative Compliance when constituted.

13. Declaration of a State of Emergency on Electricity in Ibeju Lekki Federal Constituency of Lagos State.

Hon. Adebayo Olusegun Balogun:

The House:

Notes that Ibeju Lekki is one of the twenty Local Governments that make up Lagos State;

Aware that Section 14 Sub Section 2(b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 199 (as amended) states that the security and welfare shall be the primary purpose of government;

Informed that the whole Local Government had been in total darkness for the past ten (10) years causing so much hardship to the people and their sources of livelihood;

Concerned that businesses have been grounded by the power which has led to loss of revenue and impoverished the good and law abiding people of the Local Government;

Also concerned that all industries (micro and macro) still in business are operating far below installed capacity and in most cases incurring losses because they cannot compete in local markets due to high cost of production as a result of running their business using Diesel or Premium Motor Spirit (PMS);

Worried about the state of insecurity caused by this power outage and its resultant effect on safety of lives and properties of the people; and

Also worried that the prolonged power outage has drastically affected the tourism and hospitality business of the local government which would have earned us abundant revenue and sell us to the world;

Resolves to:

Urge the Federal Ministry of Power to urgently make a holistic provision in the 2024 Budget Estimate to enable it tackle the situation once and for all.

Debate:

Hon. Adebayo Balogun moved the motion on the declaration of a state of emergency on electricity in Ibeju Lekki Federal Constituency of Lagos State, and it was seconded by Hon. Musa Avia.
Hon. Agbedi Frederick proposed an amendment to add an additional prayer to incorporate the House committee on Power to the prayers of the motion. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committee on Power when constituted.

14. Call to Investigate the ban on Nigerian passports by the Government of the republic of Seychelles.

Hon. Ademorin A. Kuye:

The House:

Aware that the Government of the Republic of Seychelles, an archipelagic country of 115 islands and approximately 120 thousand in population (as at 2022 census figures), placed a ban on Nigerian passports holders on 7, July 2023;

Also aware that before the ban, Nigeria had a longstanding visa-free agreement with the country, which allows Nigerians free entry without a visa for 30 days;

Further aware that in December 2022, the former minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika and his Seychelles counterpart, Anthony Derjacques signed a direct-flight agreement on behalf of their respective countries;

Informed that the African Union’s Agenda 2063 has 7 aspirations which include the regional integration of countries and their economies while promoting a continental common market that will enhance trans- border businesses and improve tourism;

Worried that the ban by the Seychelles Government is antithetical to the spirit of African Unionism and the AU’s Agenda 2063’s integration goals that has been domesticated by both countries;

Also worried that the Nigeria’s image abroad keeps getting bashed as the list of countries flagging and banning the use of Nigeria passport at their entry ports keeps growing; and

Further worried that the supposed giant of Africa has been banned by an African country of not more than 120 thousand – an effrontery to restrict Nigerians who want to spend their monies on vacation spots on the county islands;

Resolves to:

(i) Mandate the Committee on Foreign Affairs (when constituted) to investigate the immediate and remote causes of the Seychelles ban and come up with recommendations for diplomatic solutions within the next 2 weeks; and
(ii)​ Also mandate the Committee on Foreign Affairs to liaise with the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs to work out a foreign policy strategy to restore the country’s image abroad.

The motion was stepped down by leave of the House.

15. Tackling the Menace of Incessant Boat/Water Craft Mishaps in Nigerian Coastal Lines/Waterways.

Hon. Rodney Ebikebina Ambaiowei:

The House:

Notes that Nigeria’s coastline spans about 853km (530miles) and over 3000km of navigable inland water channel with great potential for inland cargo and passenger transportation;

Also notes that over the years, there has been repeated incidence of insecurity, threat and act of illegalities which includes crude oil theft, pipe line vandalism, illegal oil bunkering, piracy and sea robbery and illegal fishing activities amongst others;

Concerned recently that the mass and social media are awash almost on daily basis with sad news of numerous numbers of Nigeria’s citizens perishing as a result of various boat mishaps across the country on our coastlines and waterways;

Aware that, the Inland Waterways cuts across 23 states out of 36 states while boat mishaps continue to rise astronomically. Recently in Bayelsa State on the 6th April 2023, there was a tragic boat mishap at Okoroma Community along Brass waterways in Brass Local Government Area. Sadly, not less than five dead bodies were recovered while several persons and still missing. Also another Boat mishap was recorded along Otuam and Anyama River in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area where a female youth corps member and five others lost their lives;

​Also aware that on Saturday 24th June 2023, in Egbu Village in Patigi Local Government area of Kwara State, a boat with 250 people traveling for wedding event capsized and about 144 victims were rescued. In Kaduna, 10 students of Victory International secondary school got drowned in a river with just two of them rescued. In Kano State, in 2021, a boat with 47 people capsized with 20 people dead. In Niger State, a boat from Lokon carrying more than 160 people capsized at Warrah Ngaski. In Birrnin Kebbi, 97 bodies were recovered as a result of a boat mishap. In Calabar on the 24th June 2023, three out of fourteen medical students who have converged at Medical school Calabar for 2023 Nigerian Medical Association Health week got drowned when their boat capsized on water ways. The boat was reportedly derailed due to high waves as soon as it left for Marina Resort jetty. The casualties would have been more if not for the prompt intervention of the Divers from the Nigerian Navy; and

Cognizant of the absence of regulatory guidelines for boat building maintenance and operations in Nigeria coastlines and waterways and issues that come into play regarding vessels operations that could result in accidents, death and injuries include: alcohol use; excessive speed; failure to vent; improper lookouts; inadequate on board navigation lights; navigation rules violation; operators’ inexperience and inattention, illiteracy and non-chalant attitude of boat operators are common courses of most of the boat mishaps in Nigeria;

Appreciate that as Patriotic Nigerians there is need to enhance and courageously give whatever it takes to sustain the Economic development that water transportation portends;

Further cognizant that economic benefit of waterways transportation and its activities are responsible for a wide range of indirect value – added and employment effects through linkages of transport with other economic sectors;

Worried that, if the above identified challenges are not addressed forthwith as patriotic and worthy Nigerians, the plethora of deaths and insecurity being recorded daily in Nigeria’s coastlines and waterways could skyrocket thereby having serious negative impact on our socio- economic development which will definitely be against the vision of the new administration;

Resolves to:

(i) Urge this honourable house to observe ‘a minute silence in honour of those who lost their lives recently in various boat/water craft mishaps on our waterways;

(ii) Also urge the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) (for the coastlines) and National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) (for the Inland Waterways) to device new strategic regulatory guidelines and ensure compliance while enhancing ‘SEARCH AND RESCUE MEASURES’;

(iii) Again urge the National Orientation Agency and National Meteorological Agency to commence copious awareness campaign on safety measures necessary to prevent boat and water craft hazards;

(iv) Set up an ad-hoc committee to undertake a visit to the Netherlands to understudy how the Country runs their Boats and water crafts in their coastlines and waterways transportation system with minimal casualties.

Debate:

Hon. Rodney Ambiaiowei moved the motion on the need for tackling the menace of incessant boat/water mishaps in Nigerian coastal lines/waterways, and it was seconded by Hon. Fayinka Oluwatoyin.

Hon. Chidi Obeta proposed an amendment to expunge prayer 4 and incorporate the House Committee on NIMASA and other relevant ones when constituted to look into the matter. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House committee on NIMASA when constituted.

16. Need to Establish Vocational Training and Sports Centres in Askira–Uba and Hawul Local Government Area of Borno State.
    Hon. Midala Usman Balami:

The House:

Notes that the over-a-decade-long insurgency in the Northeast especially the Borno, Adamawa and Yobe States with Borno State as the epicentre has grossly affected the socio-economic well-being of the people of Askira-Uba and Hawua Local Government Areas;

Also notes that despite the horrific situation, it is pertinent to acknowledge the recent level of improvement in the security and stability of the Northeast sub region. Thus, the need to consolidate and continue to building on the achieved progress requires strategic initiatives that will counter some of the causative factors of the crisis- pervasive poverty, gross social discontent, unemployment, employability and underemployment, among others;

Aware that establishing the centers will have a multi-faceted impact which is but not limited to skill development, employability, entrepreneurship and self-employment, reduction of unemployment, social well-being, transferable life skills, and social integration, among others;

Worried that the scale of devastation on the people and the gross vulnerability of the population to not only the existing threats posed by the insurgents but the emerging and underlying challenges owing to the lack or unavailability of positive alternatives that will counter the menace fueled by the conflict;

Cognizant of the pivotal roles the vocational training and sports centres play in the facilitation and promotion of sustainable socio-economic well-being including the promotion of peace, security and development of the affected communities, Borno State and the Northeast sub-region at large;

Also aware that establishment of vocational training and sports centres will immensely empower the hardworking youths and women of Askira-Uba/ Hawul Federal Constituency;

Resolves to:

(i) Urge the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development (FMHDS), National Directorate of Employment (NDE) and other relevant Agencies to establish vocational training and sports centres in Askira-Uba and Hawul Local Government Areas of Borno State;

(ii) Also urge the Northeast Development Commission (NEDC) to consider as a matter of strategic importance, massive construction of modern vocational training and sports centres in the BAY (Borno, Adamawa and Yobe) States; and

(iii) Mandate the Committees on North-East Development Commission, Emergency and Disaster Preparedness, Internally Displaced Persons and Refugees (|DPs) and Labour, Employment and Productivity when constituted to ensure compliance.

Debate:

Hon. Midala Balami moved the motion on the need to establish vocational training and sports centers in Askira–Uba and Hawul local government area of Borno State, and it was seconded by Hon. Mohammed.

Hon. Ameer Bappa proposed an amendment to prayer 2 to incorporate the North East Development Commission into the prayer of the motion.

The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committee on Emergency and Disaster Preparedness, North East Development Commission, Internally Displaced Persons, as well as that on Labour, Employment and Productivity when constituted.

17. Need to Investigate the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for Alleged Mismanagement of Funds and Non-Disclosure of Details of Interest on Investments from the Excess Crude oil/Petroleum ProfitsTax/Royalty Account.

Hon. Esosa Iyawe:

The House:

Notes that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is the banker to the Federal Government’s Banker and custodian of investment vehicles, including the Petroleum Profits Tax (PPT) and the Excess Crude Account (ECA), among others;

Concerned that the 2015 Annual Report of the Auditor-General for the Federation showed that an interest of USD1,829,025.45 was deposited in the Excess Crude Account as interest on Investments, but there were no details as regards the principal sums deposited, the tenor and the interest rate;

Also concerned that the CBN has flagrantly and consistently refused the requests by the Auditor-General for the Federation to disclose the details regarding the management of interests accruing from the Petroleum Profit tax (PPT)/Royalty and Foreign Excess Crude Account;

Further concerned about reports which revealed unapproved and indiscriminate withdrawals from the ECA, including current year expenditures, fuel subsidies, debt financing and power projects, all of which are outside the fund’s mandate;

Disturbed that the 2016 audit report revealed the disappearance of over $9.5M interest accrued from the Petroleum Profit Tax (PPT) Investment;

Also disturbed that obscurity has consistently characterized the management of interests accruing on Federal Government investments, which is in contravention of the accountability principle, and points to misuse of much-needed government funds;

Further disturbed that the ECA has been riddled with controversy, allegations of corruption, and uncertain performance, and its absence of rules governing deposits, withdrawals and investments led to the Natural Resource Governance Institute ranking Nigeria as the second-most poorly governed fund among 34 resource-rich nations;

Worried that over the years, the ECA has consistently borne allegations of mismanagement along with a barrage of lawsuits challenging its legality as there is no law backing it;

Also worried that experts have raised concerns several times over ECA’s balances which seem to change at will without any corresponding evidence of withdrawals or approvals of such withdrawals; and

Further worried that the lack of transparency from the CBN has significantly affected the revenue accruable to the Federation Account, as well as undermines the Federal Government’s efforts to plug leakages, reduce corruption, and improve revenue for the Federation;

Resolves to:

(i) Urge the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to disclose without further delay, and following the required format, all the interests and principal sums on the investments in the Excess Crude Oil/Petroleum Profits tax/Royalty Account to the Auditor-General for the Federation’s Office; and

(ii) Set up an Ad-hoc Committee to determine the legality of the Excess Crude Account and investigate the status and management of all the Principal Sums deposited, tenor, and interest rate of the Petroleum Profits Tax/Royalty and Excess Crude Account from 2015 to date.

Debate:

Hon. Esosa Iyawe moved the motion on the need to investigate the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for alleged mismanagement of funds and non-disclosure of details of interest on investments from the Excess Crude oil/Petroleum ProfitsTax/Royalty Account, and it was seconded by Hon. Anamaru Dekeri.

The Deputy Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu praised the spirit of the motion and stressed that accountability, transparency and disclosure by public MDAs is very important on behalf of Nigerians. The House he stated frowns at the suspicion of non-transparency of the CBN to transmit such records to the Office of the Auditor General of the Federation. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the Ad-Hoc Committee when constituted.

18. Need to Harness the Untapped Potential of the Chalawa Gorge Dam in Karaye Local Government Area of Kano State and to Construct Irrigation Canal to Madobi, Kura and Garum Mallam Local Government Areas of (Kura/Madobi/Garum Mallam) Federal Constituency.

Hon. Yusuf Umar Datti:

The House:

Notes that the Chalawa Gorge Dam in Karaye Local Government Area of Kano State is about 42 meters high, 7.8 kilometres long and has a storage capacity of over 900-million-meter cubes;

Also notes that the Dam managed by Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority is currently under the jurisdiction of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources;

Observed that constructing an irrigation canal that connects Karaye to Madobi through Kura to Garun Malam will boost the country’s economic growth, food security and improve biodiversity conservation;

Further observes that the proposed irrigation project will increase market opportunities significantly, make the local economy more resilient to market fluctuations, stimulate economic growth and create a more viable future for the people of Kano state and neighbouring states;

Perceived that the irrigation project will mitigate the devastating impact of recurring floods, promote food security and efficient utilization of water resources;

Concerned that the annual overflow of excess water from the Dam has always resulted in uncontrolled flooding that destroys farmlands and other infrastructural facilities of economic importance to the state;

Resolves to:

(i) Urge the Federal Government of Nigeria to commence the construction of the irrigation canal from the Chalawa Dam site in Karaye to Madobi through Kura to Garun Malam in Kura/Madobi/Garun Mallam Federal Constituency to stimulate economic development, and improve food security in the state;

(ii) Again, urge the Federal Ministry of Water Resources through the Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority to include the irrigation canal construction project in their 2024 budget and prioritize funding of same.

(iii) Mandate the Committees on Water Resources, Agricultural Production And Service and Appropriations to ensure the implementation of the proposed project.

Debate:

Hon. Yusuf Datti moved the motion on the need to harness the untapped potential of the Chalawa Gorge dam in Karaye local government area of Kano State and to construct an irrigation canal to Madobi, Kura and Garum Mallam local government areas of (Kura/Madobi/Garum Mallam) Federal Constituency, and it was seconded by Hon. Uchenna Okonkwo.

Hon. Abdullahi Rogo proposed an amendment to also construct a bridge to link a nearby affected community.

Hon. Sani Bala proposed a further amendment to call on the relevant Standing committees when constituted to ensure compliance. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House committee on Water Resources, Agriculture as well as that on Appropriation when constituted.