Nigeria National Assembly: Plenary proceedings of the House of Reps for Thurs, Dec 21st, 2023

The Deputy Speaker of the House Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu presided.

By admin , in Inside stories , at December 22, 2023 Tags: #NASS, Ejiro Umukoro Publisher and Editor in Chief, House of Representatives, Nigeria National Assembly

After leading the opening prayer and recitation of the national pledge, the Deputy Speaker approved the votes and proceedings of Wednesday, December 20th, 2023.

Administration of Oath of allegiance to the Federal Republic of Nigeria and that of the Office of a Member of the House of Representatives on a Member-elect:

Hon. Muhammad Saidu (Sokoto State).

PETITIONS:

Hon. Clement Jumbo laid a petition on behalf of Mr. Umoh Asuquo against the Nigeria Police on his alleged unlawful dismissal since 2007. He called on the House to ensure his reinstatement.
Hon. Jessey Onuakalusi laid 2 petitions. The first is against the Nigeria Police over alleged non-payment of entitlements. The second is against the Federal Capital Territory over payment the complainant allegedly made for a property while in Lagos State, but was not able to get possession of the said property.
Hon. Akin Rotimi laid a petition on behalf of a constituent who has allegedly been denied his payment entitlements for a long while.
Hon. Lilian Orlu laid a petition on behalf of Mr. Arinze’s family against the Nigerian Army concerning the alleged disappearance of their brother who joined the Nigerian Army and was allegedly killed in a bomb blast 9 years ago and has since been unaccounted for. They craved the speedy intervention of the House on the matter as all efforts to make the Army comply with their pleas have proved unfruitful.
Hon. Olusola Gbadura laid 8 petitions on behalf of different complainants and on different issues.

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

MATTERS OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE:

Hon. Godwin Ogah moved a motion on the need to urge the Federal Government of Nigeria to as a matter of urgency make malaria treatment and the relevant drugs free and it was seconded by Hon. Agbedi Frederick. Hon. Ogah in leading the debate stated that malaria when not treated leads to more complicated issues to individuals. He stressed the need for the Federal Government to be more committed to the treatment of the disease especially in the rural areas and for women and young children who have proven to be the most vulnerable.

Hon. Ogah expressed sadness at the available international data of the prevalence of malaria in Nigeria and the rest of Sub Saharan Africa. He called on the Federal Government to use part of the savings from the removal of fuel subsidy to provide free treatment of malaria in public hospitals and that the ministry of health should be part of the compliance of the prayer of the motion. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committees on Malaria, Tuberculosis, Health Services, as well as that on HIV.

Hon. Mohammed Shehu moved a motion on need to rehabilitate a critical highway in Kano State and it was seconded by Hon. Clement Jimbo. Hon. Shehu in leading the debate stated that the said highway links communities from Kano to Jigawa state up till Niger Republic and it aids trade and the movement of people and goods via its route. He called on the relevant agencies of government and the relevant House Committees to ensure compliance to the prayers of the motion. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Works, as well as that on Appropriation.
Hon. Donald Kimiganboh moved a motion on the need for the House of Representatives to intervene in the conflicts between the Nigerian Navy and private security agents engaged by the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Ltd. to secure Oil and Gas assets in the Niger Delta region and it was seconded by Hon. Suleiman Danladi.

Hon. Donald in leading the debate called for the intervention as the continuous conflict poses a threat on the realization of the revenue projected to fund the 2024 national budget. He called on the House committee on Oil Theft to investigate the causes of these conflicts. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Petroleum Downstream, all other relevant Oil related Committees of the House,as well as to the Ad-Hoc Committee on Oil Theft.

Hon. Amos Magaji moved a motion on the need to declare a state of emergency on the Nigerian medical sector and it was seconded by Hon. Felix Uche. Hon. Magaji in leading the debate expressed alarm at the number of Nigerian doctors that have fled to other countries in search of better working/living conditions. He warned that if this situation is not tackled the United Nations prescribed Doctor- patient ratio will not be met in Nigeria.

He called on the House Committee on Health Institutions to investigate the root causes of the mass exodus of these personnel and report back to the House in 4 weeks and also ensure solution to the practice. Intervention he stated should also be provided for alternative power supply to hospitals, tertiary health institutions should be boosted and development funds should be provided for this improvement purpose. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the relevant Committees of the House.

PRESENTATION OF BILLS:

Telecommunications Facilities (Lawful Interception of Information) Bill, 2023 (HB.1064) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
National Cotton, Textile and Garment Development Council (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.1065) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
National Oil Palm Development Council (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.1066) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.
Nigerian Mining Protection and Security Corps (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.1067) (Hon. Paul Sunday Nnamchi) – First Reading.
Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.1068) (Hon. Paul Sunday Nnamchi) – First Reading.
Snake Bite and Toxicology Research and Treatment Centre, Kaltungo, Gombe State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.1069) (Hon. Obed Paul Shehu) – First Reading.
Civil Aviation Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.1070) (Hon. Miriam Onuoha) – First Reading.
Federal Inland Revenue Service Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.1071) (Hon. Miriam Onuoha) – First Reading.
Federal Colleges of Education Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.1072) (Hon. Akanni Clement Ademola) – First Reading.
Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.1073) (Hon. Akintunde Rotimi)–First Reading.
Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.1074) (Hon. Ginger Onwusibe Obinna) – First Reading

ORDERS OF THE DAY:

BILLS:

A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Medical Centres Act and Establish Federal Medical Centre, Okigwe and for Related Matters (HB. 172) – Third Reading.

Debate:

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere moved for the third reading of the bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda. The bill was read for the third time and passed.

A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Colleges of Education Act, Cap. F8 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and Establish Federal College of Education, Mutum Biyu, Taraba State and for Related Matters (HB.494) – Third Reading.

Debate:

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere moved for the third reading of the bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda. The bill was read for the third time and passed.

A Bill for an Act to Amend the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act, Cap. A12, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and Establish Federal College of Horticulture, Okigwe and for Related Matters (HB. 171) – Third Reading.

Debate:

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere moved for the third reading of the bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda. The bill was read for the third time and passed.

A Bill for an Act to Establish Food Vendors Registration Council of Nigeria charged with the Responsibility of Advancing the Registration, Training, and Safe Practice of Raw and Cooked Food Vending Businesses and preventing double Taxation Collection on members of the Council by unauthorized bodies in Nigeria and for Related Matters (HB. 326) – Third Reading.

Debate:

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere moved for the third reading of the bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda. The bill was read for the third time and passed.

A Bill for an Act to Establish National Assembly Budget and Research Office which Provides the National Assembly with Objective, timely and non-partisan analysis needed for Economic and Budget decisions and for Related Matters (HB.600) – Third Reading.

Debate:

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere moved for the third reading of the bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda. The bill was read for the third time and passed.

A Bill for an Act to Amend the Tertiary Education Trust Fund Act, 2011 to Review the Tenure of Office of the Executive Secretary and expressly Provide that the Monotechnics shall benefit from the Fund and for Related Matters (HB. 192) (Hon. Siadu Musa Abdullahi) – Second Reading.

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

A Bill for an Act to Amend the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act, Cap. C15, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and for Related Matters (HB. 275) (Hon. Rotimi Akintunde) –Second Reading.

Debate:

Hon. Rotimi Akintunde moved for the second reading of the bill and it was seconded by Hon. Muktar Chawai. Hon. Akintunde in leading the debate stated that Nigerians need to have trust in public officials. This he stated has been eroded due to the perceived corruption of some public officials and the Code of Conduct Bureau has the responsibility of upholding this trust.

He stated that the bill seeks to amend 4 specific provisions of the principal Act (assets/liabilities claims, reduction of age of inclusion to practice, inclusion of specific representative from properties sector etc.) this is to make more applied physical effects for the Bureau to be more effective and check dodging of claims.

The Deputy Speaker of the House Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu praised the spirit of the bill and called for further reduction of the age to make room for Nigerian youth to participate especially as related to the “Not Too Young To Run Act.”The bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Anti Corruption.

A Bill for an Act to Establish Agro Processing Export Free Trade Zone, Yewa North/Imeko Afon-Ogun State and for Related Matters (HB. 219) (Hon. Adegboyega Nasir Isiaka) – Second Reading.

Debate:

Gboyega Isiaka moved for the second reading of the bill and it was seconded by Hon. Baba Tijani. Hon. Isiaka stated that the bill seeks to establish an agricultural free trade zone for the development of agricultural practice production and business in the region of Ogun state and Nigeria at large. He stated that the zone should have incentives to attract local and international investors to the region. Hon. Isiaka stated that the practice will boost the utilization of arable land left unutilized. The bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Commerce.

A Bill for an Act to Provide for Enactment of Child Online Access Protection Bill, 2023 and other issues of Online Violence against Nigerian Child and for Related Matter (HB. 244) (Hon. Olumide Osoba) – Second Reading.

Debate:

Hon. Olumide Osoba moved for the second reading of the bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kabiru Maipalace. Hon. Osoba in leading the debate stated that the bill seeks to ensure the safety of the Nigerian child in the midst of advancing Internet technology. He stressed the need to adequately scrutinize the activities of those that prey on innocent children in bid to abuse them.

Hon. Osoba stated that the bill seeks to restrict content providers from sharing harmful material to minors as well as provide other renewed measures aimed at ensuring internet safety for the Nigerian child. The bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Justice.

A Bill For An Act To Amend The Appropriation Act 2023, To Extend The Implementation Of The Capital Aspect Of The Appropriation Act, 2023 From 31 St December, 2023 To 31 St March 2024. (HB. 1075).

Debate:

Hon. Francis Waive moved for the suspension of relevant rules to enable the House commence and complete the debate and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda.

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere moved for the second reading of the bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda who stated that the bill is in line with aiding government meets its obligations to Nigerians. Hon. Ihonvbere in leading the debate stated that the bill seeks to amend the Appropriation Act to extend its expiration from December 31st, 2023 to March 2024 to enable government work within the legal provisions of the Law for the expense of governance and infrastructural development on behalf of the Nigerian people. The bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the Committee on Supply.

A Bill For An Act To Amend The Supplementary Appropriation Act, 2023 To Extend Its Implementation To 31st March, 2024; And For Related Matters (HB. 1076).

Debate:

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere moved for the second reading of the bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda. Hon. Ihonvbere in leading stated that the bill seeks to amend the Appropriation Act to extend its expiration from December 31st, 2023 to March 2024 to enable government work within the legal provisions of the law for the expense of governance and infrastructural development on behalf of the Nigerian people. The bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the Committee on Supply.

MOTIONS:

Need for the Resuscitation and Resumption of Operations of NTA Channel 35 Eket, Akwa Ibom State: Hon. Okpolupm Etteh:

The House:

Notes that the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) is the first television station in Africa with the largest Television broadcasting network in Africa;

Also notes that the Vision and Mission of NTA is “to be a world-class television network and to provide excellent service worldwide and project the true African perspective;

Aware that the Authority primary function in achieving the NTA core vision involved establishing the necessary number of stations as needed from time to time;

Also aware that the Nigeria Television Authority established NTA Channel 35, Eket seventeen (17) years ago, investing huge funds in constructing and equipping the station technically to commence broadcasting;

Cognizant of the fact that the operation of the television station in Eket, will further boost economic development in the area and create job opportunities in the Federal Constituency;

Concerned that the people of Eket of the Federal Constituency have expressed the need for the NTA station, Eket to be fully operational for a broader news and educational channel;

Worried that though the NTA Station in Eket was built, equipped, staffed and had carried out testing over 17 years ago, has been abandoned and overrun with weed, grass, and crawling animals, causing concern;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Nigerian Television Authority to ensure that NTA channel 35 Station in Eket commence full digital operation by the 2024 fiscal year;

(ii) mandate the Committee on Information, National Orientation and Values to ensure compliance and report back within four (4) weeks for further legislation.

Debate:

Hon. Okpolupm Etteh moved the motion on the need for the resuscitation of operations of NTA channel 35 Eket, Akwa Ibom state and it was seconded by Hon. Maureen. Hon. Ebikake Enenimiete proposed an amendment to include NTA Brass in Bayelsa state should be incorporated in the prayers of the motion as it faces the same problems

Hon. Taura Jigawa proposed an amendment to prayer 2 to add the House committee on Appropriations to the prayer. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committee on Information, National Orientation and Values.

Need to Curb the Sale of Naira Notes by the Point of Sale (POS) Operators in Nigeria: Hon. Mohammed Dan Abba Shehu:

The House:

Notes that the Point-of-Sales “POS” machine was invented and produced to alleviate the financial transactions hook-ups emanating from the Commercial Banks in Nigeria;

Also notes that the financial transaction machines have significantly transformed the financial sector in the country by assisting the public in resolving banking challenges in Commercial Banks;

Aware that Point-of-sale machines have been adopted in advanced countries like the US, UK, and South Africa to facilitate financial transformation without manipulation, this innovative trend was adopted in Nigeria a few years ago to curb financial hook-ups and address daily challenges faced by customers to access funds;

Also aware that Sections 1 and 2 of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Act 2007, empowers the Central Bank of Nigeria to regulate commercial banks and advises the government on financial issues to achieve good governance;

Worried that the POS operators are now selling naira notes at exorbitant prices of one thousand for three to four hundred naira, while ten thousand naira goes for four thousand naira, thus, causing concern among citizens who are currently experiencing economic hardship;

Cognizant of the need for the government to utilize its relevant authorities under the Central Bank of Nigeria, Act 2007 to supervise Commercial Banks and advise on financial matters, including regulating Point of Sale operators, this will validate public confidence and address the hardships faced by citizens in Nigeria’s financial transactions;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Central Bank of Nigeria to immediately commence proper monitoring and supervision of Commercial Banks activities daily to ascertain the extent of counter payment to customers;

(ii) also urge the Point-of-Sale Operators (POS) to immediately remove excessive charges to customers across the country; and

(iii) mandate the Committees on Banking Regulations and, Digital and Electronic Banking to invite the Minister of Finance and National Planning and Budget and Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria to explain why Commercial Banks are not paying customers over the counter and ATM Machines

Debate:

Hon. Mohammed Shehu moved the motion on the need to curb the sale of Naira notes by the Point of Sale (POS) operators in Nigeria and it was seconded by Hon. Kabiru Rurum. Hon. Donald proposed an amendment to mandate the relevant House committees on Banking to investigate the matter and return to the House within 4 weeks. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committees on Electronic Banking and Banking Regulations.

Need for Adequate Provisions for Water Sanitation and Hygiene (Wash) Facilities in Public places in Abuja and other public spaces in Nigeria:

Hon. Henry Odianosen Okojie:

The House:

Informed that Nigeria has set a target to eradicate open defecation by 2025 in line with the revised global target set by the United Nations but unfortunately, no serious action is being taken to reduce the trends as over 23% (46 million) practice open defecation in Nigeria;

Aware that the Nigeria Government has developed several initiatives to improve the water and sanitation situation in the country without success, for instance, the World Bank has approved the Nigeria Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene Program (SURWASH) with a $700 million credit from the International Development Association (IDA) to provide 6 million people with basic water, hygiene and sanitation facilities especially in public places;

Conscious that access to clean and hygienic toilet facilities is a basic human right and essential for public health which should be made available at motor parks, mechanic sites, public offices and areas with high numbers of pedestrians to curb the high rates of open defecation in Nigeria;

Cognizant that the Nigeria government has set a target to become Open Defecation Free (ODF) by 2025;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation in collaboration with States, Local Government Councils and other key players across the federation to operationalize an achievable detailed roadmap towards achieving an open defection-free Nigeria using scientific approaches such as providing water, hygiene and sanitation in all public places; and

(ii) mandate the Committee on Water Resources to ensure compliance and report backwithin four (4) weeks for further legislative action.

Debate:

Hon. Henry Okojie moved the motion on the need for adequate provisions for water sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) facilities in public places in Abuja and other public spaces in Nigeria and it was seconded by Hon. Felix Uche. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Water Resources.

Perennial Flood and Erosion in Nteje, Umunya and Ogbunike in Oyi/Ayamelum Federal Constituency of Anambra State:

Hon. Gwacham Maureen Chinwe:

The House:

Notes that the residents of Oyi/Ayamelum Federal Constituency face yearly floods and erosion, causing death, displacement, and immense suffering as families leave their homes and belongings behind;

Also notes that floods and erosion have severely affected Eke-Igwe Yam Market in Nteje town, Isioye-Umuebo-Ijobi-Umunya, and Anioma Amawa-Osile-Ogbunike road, causing significant hardship and displacement to the local population;

Concerned that the disaster is negatively affecting the economic activities of the residents, who are predominantly farmers;

Worried that if the disaster is not curbed expeditiously, it could lead to a higher calamity as surrounding communities will be affected as well;

Cognizant of the need to provide relief materials and support to the affected communities, including assistance with relocation and rebuilding efforts;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide relief materials to the victims of flood and erosion disasters and set up an emergency station in Oyi/Ayamelum Federal Constituency of Anambra State in the event of an emergency;

(ii) also urge the Ecological Fund Office and Ministry of Environment to tackle the menace of flooding in the affected areas;

(iii) further urge the Federal Ministry of Works to commence repairs and reconstruction of affected roads in the area; and

(iv) mandate the Committee on Emergency and Disaster Preparedness to ensure compliance.

Debate:

Hon. Maureen moved the motion on perennial flood and erosion in Nteje, Umunya and Ogbunike in Oyi/ Ayameium federal constituency of Anambra state and it was seconded by Hon. Oriyomi Onanuga. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Emergency Disaster Preparedness.

Call on Nigerian Universities and Tertiary Institutions to adopt a Semester – Based School Fee Payment System:

Hon. Sa’ad Wada Taura:

The House:

Notes the demand for cost-effective and efficient education financing models in Tertiary institutions;

Also notes that the current annual school fee payment system in Nigeria presents financial challenges for students and families given the recent subsidy removal and single-window forex policy;

Aware of the anticipated benefits of adopting a semester-based school fee payment system for tertiary institutions, international universities, including the University of California and the University of Sydney, recently implemented semester-based fee payment systems to maximize financial convenience and reduce the strain on students and parents;

Recognizes that adopting the payment system can minimize the financial strain on students, improve access to higher education, and create a more transparent financial structure for institutions;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Tertiary Institutions to adopt a semester-based school fee payment system.

(ii) also urge the Federal Ministry of Education to work closely with institutions and stakeholders in the education sector to provide the necessary support for adopting the school fee payment system;

(iii) mandate the Committees on University Education, Polytechnics and Higher Technical Education, and Federal Colleges and Education to investigate the viability of adopting a semester-based school fee payment system while considering the specific needs and circumstances of each institution and report back within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.

Debate:

Hon. Taura moved the motion on the call on Nigerian universities and tertiary institutions to adopt a semester-based school fee payment system and it was seconded by Hon. Chukwugozie Nwachukwu. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committees on University Education, Higher Education, Federal Colleges and Education.

Need to Investigate the Utilization of financial interventions in the Nigerian Solid Mineral

Sector amounting to Trillions of Naira:

Hon. Awaji-Inombek D. Abiante:

The House:

Notes that the National Resources Development Fund was established in 2002 to diversify resources and reduce petroleum reliance, using revenue sources such as excess crude oil allocation, exchange gain, non-oil revenue, contractual obligations, and refunds;

Also notes that between 2002 and the present, trillions of naira have been deposited into the fund, but the actual allocation for the solid minerals sector remains unclear;

Concerned that the financial records from 2007 to 2011 reveal a misappropriation of N365 billion in fund allocations. Furthermore, the audit report indicates that the fund proceeds were utilized as a borrowing purse by the federal government from 2012 to 2016;

Cognizant that in the last quarter of 2016, 30 million dollars intervention fund was approved from the fund and released for the facilitation of exploration operations and the formalization of Artisanal Miners;

Aware that in 2019, the Presidency directed the Federal Ministry of Finance to allocate funds to the Solid Minerals Development Fund to manage the Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Development Initiative to formalize and institutionalize the artisanal gold mining industry;

Also aware that in 2017, the World Bank-assisted Mineral Sector for Economic Development Project (MINDIVER), under the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, gave the country solid mineral sector a facility of 150 million dollars to enhance the mining sector contribution to the Nigerian economy;

Observes that in July 2020, the Federal Ministry of Finance disclosed to the public a credit balance of 131.59 billion Naira in the fund, but between 2007 to 2020, records of its contributions to the solid minerals sector remain unclear;

Disturbed that in 2019, an audit report revealed that the Nigerian government allegedly diverted a substantial amount of 903.63 billion naira allocated to the fund in ten years, from 2007 to 2011 and 2012 to 2016;

Recognizes that the 8th House of Representatives mandated an Ad-hoc Committee to investigate the alleged diversion of 350 billion naira in Natural Resources Funds to areas outside its core mandate and to ascertain the status of utilization;

Worried that the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) stated in its 2019 audit report that the federal government continues to exploit the growth of the fund through misappropriation, despite regular inquiries by the National Assembly. This underscores the need to ascertain the present credit balance of the fund, the proportion of interventions from the fund to the solid minerals sector of the economy and its utilization status;

Resolves to:

mandate the Committee on Solid Minerals Development to investigate the Natural Resources Development Fund, and the utilization of all financial interventions from 2013–2023 and report back within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.

Debate:

Hon. Abinate moved the motion on the need to investigate the utilization of financial interventions in the Nigerian Solid Minerals sector amounting to trillions of Naira and it was seconded by Hon. Rodney. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Solid Mineral Development.

Ravaging effects of Gully Erosion in Yenagoa, Obogoro, Famgbe, Ikolo and other

Communities within and Around the Ikoli River of Bayelsa State:

Hon. Oboku Abonsizibe Oforji:

The House:

Notes that Section 14(2) (b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) provides that the security, safety and welfare of the people of Nigeria shall be the primary purpose of government;

Also notes that the ravaging effect of coastal erosion in Yenagoa, Obogoro, Famgbe, Ikolo, and other communities within and bordering the Ikoli River, resulted in devastating consequences for the indigenes and residents of the areas;

Observes that landslides from the coastal erosion originating from the Ikoli River have submerged buildings, churches, farmlands, worship sites, schools, football fields, and a lodge housing National Youth Service Corps members.

Concerned that the ongoing disaster has been unaddressed for years, causing fear among the indigenous and community residents.

Worried that the erosion has caused significant hardship for indigenous communities, affecting their economic livelihoods and causing children to travel long distances for basic education.

Furthermore, numerous residents were displaced by the disaster.

Alarmed that at the peak of the rainy season, the implications of heavy flooding ignite a looming danger unless prompt action is taken to mitigate the disaster. Ultimately, lives are lost, including the death of a woman tragically swept away by a landslide in her sleep, whose body remains unaccounted for to this day;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Federal Government to promptly tackle this menace and save the communities from the risk of extinction by implementing reclamation and shore protection measures for the communities within and bordering the Ikoli River;

(ii) also urge the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to ensure the resettlement of displaced residents in affected areas and provide relief materials; and

(iii) mandate the Committee on Environment to conduct a tour of the affected communities to assess the damages and report back within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.

Debate:

Hon. Oforji moved the motion on the ravaging effects of gully erosion in Yenagoa, Obogoro, Famgbe, Ikolo and other communities within and around the Ikoli River of Bayelsa state and it was seconded by Hon. Muhammed Mukhtar. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Environment.

Need to Control Ravaging Erosion and Flooding in Orlu, Orsu and Oru East Federal Constituency, Imo State:

Hon. Canice Moore Chukwugozie Nwachukwu:

The House:

Notes that Uhuala village in Obibi Ochasi community, and Gburugburu Road to Afor Obibi, Okpiyi Uhuala Obibi, Umuchukwu Ogbaka College Obibi, Ezize Iro Umuezike Obibi,

Umuchukwu IhiteOwerri-asa, and Acharaba Ogberuru all in Orlu Local Government Area of Imo State, have been ravaged by Gully Erosion, and the flooding leading to the loss of lives, destruction of properties, and untold hardship in the communities;

Also notes that the erosion and flooding in affected communities have caused significant economic and social disruptions, causing damages worth billions of Naira, particularly in Orlu, Orsu, and Oru East Federal Constituency, Imo State, necessitating urgent action to prevent further loss.

Aware of a recent video by Overt news reporting gully erosion taking over the community, leaving houses behind, and cutting off access roads, thus leaving the town a ghost town and shutting down socioeconomic activities in the affected area;

Cognizant that ecological funds designated for erosion and flood control are urgently needed to address the adverse effects of flooding and environmental degradation in affected areas.

Also cognizant of the need to declare a state of emergency in affected areas to address the devastating effects of erosion and flooding and provide resettlement plans and disaster management mechanisms;

Further cognizant that prompt implementation of measures is crucial to effectively combat erosion and flooding in the south-eastern region of Nigeria, safeguarding lives, properties, and overall well-being of the communities;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other relevant agencies to ensure the release of funds from the Ecological Funds to tackle erosion and establish a resettlement program to rehabilitate affected residents and relocate them from high-risk areas;

(ii) also urge the National Emergency Management Agency to provide relief materials to residents displaced by the flood; and

(iii) mandate the Committee on Ecological Fund to ensure the release of funds to the affected communities that have been widely ravaged, and report back within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.

Debate:

Hon. Nwachukwu moved the motion on the need to control ravaging erosion and flooding in Orlu, Orsu and Oru East federal constituency, Imo state and it was seconded by Hon. Abdullahi Balarabe. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Ecological Fund, and that on National Emergency Management Agency.

Need to Review the Curriculum of Nigeria Universities to meet the Current Needs of

Nigerians and Contribute to National Development:

Hon. Kabiru Amadu:

The House:

Notes that Nigeria’s educational system is in dire need of innovation that is critical to national development and sustenance;

Aware that the current curriculum used in Nigeria Tertiary Institutions was designed 20-30 years ago and is grossly inadequate to meet the present-day needs of employers of labour;

Cognizant that a review of the Nigeria Tertiary institution’s curriculum will enhance quality and technical innovations in secondary education, relevant to the labour industry, and global competitiveness.

Worried that the consequences of tertiary institutions relying on this old curriculum is that the country would produce unemployable graduates and professionals;

Also worried that the inadequacy of Nigerian Tertiary Institutions’ curriculum has led to many Nigerians seeking basic training abroad, thus, resulting in a loss of necessary foreign exchange;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the National Universities Commission (NUC) to collaborate with Tertiary Institutions to develop a curriculum that aligns with graduates workplace performance and national development; and

(ii) mandate the Committee on University Education to investigate the use of curriculum in Nigerian universities and report back within four (4) for further legislative action.

Debate:

Hon. Amadu moved the motion on the need to review the curriculum of Nigerian universities to meet the current needs of Nigerians and contribute to national development and it was seconded by Hon. Paul Adeboye. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on University Education.

Need to Investigate the National Air Carrier Project:

Hon. Tarkighir Dickson:

The House:

Notes that in 2016 the former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika proposed an aviation roadmap with national carrier as the signature project, aiming to deliver it to Nigerians by the end of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration;

Also notes that the former Minister of Aviation, approached Ethiopian Airlines a few days before the handover, to provide an aircraft that could be made available to Nigerians as an aircraft belonging to Nigeria Air and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority NCAA had issued an Air Transport License to Nigeria Air, that was the name for the proposed National Carrier;

Aware that the last administration spent billions of naira ostensibly to acquire the said new National Carrier but the status of the project remains unclear regardless of billions of taxpayers; funds utilized on the project;

Worried that if the negative trend is not investigated, it may lead to issues with accountability and continue to be a recurring expenditure item in the federal budget;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and Ministries of Budget, National Planning and Finance to furnish the House with data and financial resources on the national air carrier project;

(ii) mandate the Committee on Aviation to:

(a) invite the Minister of Aviation to brief the Committee on Aviation about the National Carrier Project;

(b) invite the former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, to brief the Committee on the status of the project at the point he handed it over and provide insights on a wide range of controversies and allegations surrounding the project;

(c) invite the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), to brief the Committee about the Nigeria Air Carrier Project and its certifications as applied to the National Air Carrier; and

(d) invite the eight local airlines and their associations to afford the House a full overview of the project;

(e) carry out a forensic audit of the process of Nigeria Air and report back within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.

Debate:

Hon. Dickson moved the motion on the need to investigate the National Air Carrier Project and it was seconded by Hon. Kelechi Nwogu.

Hon. Dominic Okafor proposed an amendment to incorporate every relevant aviation committee to the prayers of the House. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House committee on Aviation as well other relevant Aviation Committees of the House.

Need for Implementation of the Federal Universities of Education Pankshin, and

Kontagora (Establishment) Acts:

Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gadgi:

The House:

Notes that the 9 th National Assembly, in its pursuit to improve the education system in Nigeria, upgraded three Federal Colleges of Education to Federal Universities of Education and transmitted the bills to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for assent pursuant to Section 58 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and the provisions of the Acts Authentication Act, Cap. A2, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004;

Also notes that the three Bills, namely the Federal University of Education Pankshin (Establishment) Bill, 2021, Adeyemi Federal University of Education Ondo (Establishment) Bill, 2021; and the Federal University of Education Kontagora (Establishment) Bill, 2021, were assented to by the President;

Aware that by the provisions of the Acts Authentication Act, Cap. A2, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004, the Clerk to the National Assembly duly enrolled the enactments at the Supreme Court and gazetted the same with the Federal Government Printers, the enactments were circulated to all relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies including the Federal Ministry of Education for implementation;

Worried that the Federal Ministry of Education, rather than adhering to the law, announced the commencement of Adeyemi Federal University of Education Ondo, while Federal Universities of Education Pankshin and Kontagora remain in a dormant condition;

Concerned that following the enactment and commencement of the aforementioned enactments, the 2023 Budget was presented for the repealed Federal Colleges of Education which constitutes a violation of law;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the President, Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces Federal Republic of Nigeria through the Office of the Chief of Staff to the President to direct the Federal Ministry of Education to include the Federal Universities of Education Pankshin and Kontagora in the implementation plan recently announced in conformity to the provisions of the enactments;

(ii) also urge the Federal Ministry of Education and the Budget Office of the Federation to designate the institutions as Federal Universities of Education instead of Federal Colleges of Education in its 2024 budget estimates; and

(iii) mandate the Committees on Appropriation, Federal Universities and Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance.

Motion stepped down by leave of the House.

Need to Curb the rising spate of Cultism, Trafficking, Consumption of Illicit Drugs and other Substances among Youths in Nigeria:

Hon. Kelechi Nwogu:

The House:

Notes that the rise in cultism, trafficking, and illegal drug consumption among youths, regardless of gender, is widespread across society, among educated and uneducated individuals, and celebrities.

Also notes that the country is experiencing an alarming rate of youth involvement in unlawful activities such as drug use, resulting in mental disorders including psychological torture and criminalities such as fraud, murder, intimidation, armed robberies, kidnapping, and ritual killings;

Concerned that despite the adherence to religious ordinances within local communities, the grisly practice of ritual murder increases because of the desire for quick wealth and occult influence spreading through our society. Additionally, the increasing cases of this practice are attributed to societal breakdowns, sudden wealth crazes, inadequate security systems in educational institutions, and poor implementation of existing laws and guidelines;

Also concerned that certain young people in the country continue to hold the false belief that trafficking in drugs and ritual murder is the quickest path to wealth, power, and prestige; conversely, young people in other societies embrace science and technology as a means of keeping up with the changing world;

Worried that local authorities are failing to protect people from violent gang attacks in communities, leading to increased impunity and the loss of lives;

Alarmed that if unchecked, younger generations may view cultist activities, ritual killing, and drug trafficking depicted in movies and social media as acceptable norms. The cultists, traffickers, and ritualists inflict harm on society, requiring increased efforts by security agencies to curb the menace and restore people’s confidence;

Cognizant of the Nigerian movie industry significantly influencing youth behaviour, owing to the National Film and Video Censors Board, which serves as a clearing house for Nigerian films;

Resolves to:

(i) commend the efforts of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in the fight against illegal drug consumption and trafficking;

(ii) urge the Federal Government to set up a joint security task force to be deployed to the 774 local government areas and area councils in the Federal Capital Territory of Abuja to eliminate the activities of cultists, illegal drug consumption, and trafficking;

(iii) also urge the Minister of Information and National Orientation, the Director of the National Orientation Agency, and the Executive Director of the National Film and Video Censors Board to undertake detailed enlightenment programs in secondary schools, tertiary institutions, local communities, faith groups, and other institutions, as well as impose restrictions on home movies promoting social vices; and

(iv) mandate the Committee on Information, National Orientation, Narcotics Drugs and Legislative Compliance Ethics to ensure compliance and report back within six weeks for further legislative action.

Debate:

Hon. Nwogu moved the motion on the need to curb the rising spate of cultism, trafficking, consumption of illicit drugs and other substances among youth in Nigeria. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Information, National Information and Ethics, Drugs and Narcotics, as well as that on Legislative Compliance.

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

A Bill for an Act to Establish Federal University of Agriculture and Entrepreneurship, Saki, Oyo State to make Compressive Provisions for its due Management and Administration and for Related Matters (HB. 628) (Leader) – Committee of the Whole:26/10/2023.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere stated that the bill seeks to establish the institution for the improvement of current agricultural practice for Nigerians in Oyo state and its environs.

Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-25.

A Bill for an Act to Amend the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act, Cap. A12, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to provide for Establishment of Federal College of Agriculture, Abi, Cross River State and for Related Matters (HB. 330) (Leader) – Committee of the Whole: 26/10/2023.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere stated that the bill seeks to amend the principal Act and make it in line with current realities.

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

A Bill for an Act to Establish Nigerian Institute of Agriculturists charged with the responsibility of advancing the Study, Training and Practice of Agriculture activities and determining the standard of knowledge and skills to be attained by Persons seeking to become registered Members of the Institute and for Related Matters (HB. 653) (Leader) – Committee of the Whole:26/10/2023.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Julius Ihonvebere stated that the bill seeks to regulate and promote service systems in the agricultural practice and ensure increased participation.

Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-43.

A Bill for an Act to Provide for Establishment of Federal College of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Sciences, Isiala-Mbano, Imo State and for Related Matters (HB. 173) (Leader) – Committee of the Whole:27/7/2023.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere stated that the bill seeks to promote the study and practice of nursing and midwifery for the health benefits of Nigerians.

Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-37.

A Bill for an Act to Establish Chartered Institute of Cooperative Professionals in Nigeria charged with the responsibility for advancing the Training and Practice of Cooperative Professionals and for Related Matters (HB. 603) (Leader) – Committee of the Whole: 18/10/2023.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere stated that the bill seeks to create the proposed institute to ensure professionalism in the sector.

Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-28.

A Bill for an Act to Establish College of Nursing and Midwifery Out, Jeremi, Delta State and for Related Matters (HB.221) (Leader) – Committee of the Whole: 27/7/2023.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere stated that the bill also seeks to promote the study and practice of nursing and midwifery for the health benefits of Nigerians in the region.

Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-37

A Bill for an Act to Repeal the National Film and Video Censors Board Act, Cap. N40 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and Enact the National Film and Video Censorship, Classification and Exhibition Regulatory Commission Act for the Classification of Films Video works, Musical Videos and Video games and for the Regulation of their Sales, Rentals, Distribution, Exhibition and for Related Matters (HB.475) (Leader) – Committee of the Whole:23/11/2023.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere stated that the bill seeks to ensure the protection of intellectual works of artists and manufacturers to check the activities of pirates so that due royalty can be guaranteed for intellectual property rights.

Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-63, 65-76.

Clause amended and approved: 64.

A Bill for an Act to Establish South East Development Commission Charged with the Responsibility among other things to receive and manage funds from allocation of the Federation Account for the Reconstruction and Rehabilitation of Roads, Houses and other Infrastructural Damages suffered by the Region as a result of the effect of the Civil War as well as tackle the Ecological Problems and any other Related Environmental or Developmental Challenges in the South East States and for Related Matters (HB.626) (Leader) – Committee of the Whole:20/12/2023.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere stated that the bill seeks to ensure development in the Southeastern region of Nigeria.

Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-31.

A Bill for an Act to Repeal the Weights and Measures Act, Cap. W3, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and Enact the Nigerian Weights and Measures Regulatory Agency (Establishment) Act, 2003 for the Development and Enforcement of Varying Scopes of Legal Metrology Activities for the Promotion of Fair Trade, Protection of Public Health, Safety and the Environment; and for Related (HB.614) (Leader) – Committee of the Whole: 9/11/2023.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere stated that the bill seeks the development and enforcement of measures aimed at checking excesses in meteorological activities and to boost the drive for the protection of public health and the environment.

Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-73.

A Bill For An Act To Amend The Appropriation Act 2023, To Extend The Implementation Of The Capital Aspect Of The Appropriation Act, 2023 From 31st December, 2023 To 31st March 2024. (HB. 1075).

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere stated that the bill seeks to amend the Appropriation Act to extend its validity from December 31st, 2023 to March 2024 to enable government work within the legal provisions of the Law for the expense of governance, infrastructural development on behalf of the Nigerian people.

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

Synopsis of the report:

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

HOUSE IN PLENARY:

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

BILLS:

Hon. Francis Waive moved the motion for the House to suspend its relevant rules to allow for the third reading of the above bills and it was seconded by Hon. Aliyu Sani Madaki.

A Bill for an Act to Establish Federal University of Agriculture and Entrepreneurship, Saki, Oyo State to make Compressive Provisions for its due Management and Administration and for Related Matters (HB. 628)-Third Reading.

Debate:

Hon. Julius Ihonvbere moved for the Third reading of the bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda. The bill was read for the third time and passed.

A Bill for an Act to Amend the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act, Cap. A12, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to provide for Establishment of Federal College of Agriculture, Abi, Cross River State and for Related Matters (HB. 330)-Third Reading

Debate: