Nigeria National Assembly: Plenary Proceedings House of Reps, Thur, Nov 21st, 2024
The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen presided.
After the recitation of the First stanza of the National Anthem, the National Pledge and opening prayer, the Speaker approved the votes and proceedings of Wednesday, November 20th, 2024
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
- Announcement of Conference Committees:
I. Membership of the South-West Development Commission Bill and it is to be Chaired by Hon. James Abiodun Faleke.
II. Membership of the South-South Development Commission Bill and it is to be Chaired by Hon. Frederick Agbedi.
- All Regional caucus leaders, all Zonal caucus leaders, all State caucus leaders are having a meeting on Monday, 25th November 2024 at the White House (House of Representatives section) by 16:00.
PETITIONS:
- Hon. Chinedu Ogah laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) on a passionate appeal concerning the alleged unjust and unlawful termination of her employment. She appealed to the House to resolve the issue.
- Hon. Lilian Orogbu laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against a Development Authority in Anambra state. The complainant is appealing for the intervention of the House in recovering an alleged debt owed to him of over =N= 46 Million.
- Hon. Gyendeng Ibrahim laid a petition on behalf of some complainants, which he himself is part of. The petition is against against NEMCO on the alleged illegal confiscation of their assets.
All petitions were referred to the House Committee on Public Petitions
MATTERS OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE:
- Hon. Kafilat Ogbara moved a motion on the International Day for Elimination of All Forms of Violence Against Women and it was seconded by Hon. Whigan Oluwaseun. Hon. Kalifat in leading the debate expressed worry at some societal attitudes that tolerate violence against women and yet, still go unreported due to fear and perceived stigma on the part of the female victims. She stressed the need to raise the level of awareness against all forms of violence against women, which include, but is not limited to: early marriage, girl trafficking, genital mutilation, etc. Hon. Kafilat called on the National Orientation Agency to improve its sensitization and awareness campaigns on these issues. She also called on the Budget Office as well as the Ministry of Finance to ensure budgetary allocation for the enforcement of polices aimed at tackling the menace. She then called on the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development to establish mechanisms for the compliance of all relevant Acts on the issue.
Hon. Alhassan Ado-Doguwa in contributing to the debate called on all Honorable Members to ensure the success of the motion as women are a pivotal part of societal balance.
Hon. Patrick Umoh also supported the motion on the grounds of the need to recognize the contributions of women in ensuring the success of democracy in Nigeria.
Hon. Eze Nwachukwu stated that the motion is indeed timely as the women are the fiber on which society receives beauty and coordination.
Hon. Abubakar Nalaraba also supported the motion as women need all support and encouragements to ensure societal balance and tranquility.
Hon. Julius Inonbvere also appreciated Honorable Members for the debate and praised the spirit of the motion. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Women Affairs.
- Hon. Whigan Oluaseun moved a motion on the call to restore power to Badagry West and it was seconded by Hon. Shehu Hussain. Hon. Oluaseun in leading the debate stated that the region has been without power for over 4 years and this has continued to make socioeconomic activities difficult to carry out. He stated that the hitherto thriving tourism sector of the region is also heavily burdened due to the blackout. Hon. Oluaseun stated that the sustained blackout has also provided criminal elements with a safe haven to carry out their nefarious activities unchecked. He called on the Ministry of Power as well as the Rural Electrification Agency to expedite repairs on transformers, transmission lines and other facilities to ensure restoration of power and that the House Committee on Power as well as that on Rural Electrification should ensure compliance. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Power, Rural Development as well as that on and Rural Electrification
- Hon. Billy Osawaru moved a motion on the need to deploy security agents to some communities in Edo state and it was seconded by Hon. Jafaru Leko. Hon. Osawaru in leading the debate stated that suspected herdsmen recently invaded farmlands in the area and murdered various farmers and residents. He expressed concern at the frequency of the attacks which has made farmers afraid to go for their farming practices which could lead to food insecurity. Hon. Osawaru called on the relevant security agencies to ensure they stop these unwarranted attacks and bring the perpetrators to justice. He further called on the Inspector General of Police as well as the Heads of other relevant security agencies to deploy more personnel to the region to safeguard the lives and properties of the residents and that the House Committee on Police Affairs, Army as well as that on National Security should ensure compliance. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Police Affairs, Army as well as that on National Security.
- Hon. Daniel Asama moved a motion on the need to investigate the recurrence of fire incidents in katako market in Plateau state and it was seconded by Hon. Ginger Onwusibe. Hon. Daniel in leading the debate expressed concern at the recent fire at katako market as it has become a yearly occurrence. He observed that the cause of the fire has eluded investigators and hence remedies have neither been proffered, nor employed. Hon. Daniel called on the Federal Ministry on Humanitarian Affairs to provide assistance to the victims and that the Federal Fire Service should ensure measures are installed in the market to ensure such incidents are quickly tackled and that traders in the market should be trained to quickly fight such fires in a safe and timely fashion. He called on the House Committee on Emergency and Disaster Management as well as that on Interior to ensure compliance.
Hon. James Faleke raised a point of order that the House lacks the jurisdiction to carry out some of the prayers of the motion as they are strictly within the purview of the state and local governments.
Hon. Ahmed Jaha proposed an amendment to delete the first prayer and retain the second one calling for assistance for the victims. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committee on Emergency and Disaster Management.
PRESENTATION OF BILLS
- Nigerian Research Institutes Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1845) (Hon. Sunday Ojo Makanjuola) – First Reading.
- Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1849) (Hon. Aliyu Mustapha Abdullahi) – First Reading.
- Scholarship Regulation Bill, 2024 (HB.1843) (Hon. Isiaka Nasiru Adegboyega) – First Reading.
- Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2024(Political Affiliation, Physical Appearance, Race, Skin Colour) (HB.1857) (Hon. Ghali Mustapha Tijjani) – First Reading.
- Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1858) (Hon. Ghali Mustapha Tijjani) – First Reading.
- Child’s Rights Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1859) (Hon. Ghali Mustapha Tijjani) –First Reading.
- Compulsory, Free Universal Basic Education Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1860) (Hon. Ghali Mustapha Tijjani) –First Reading.
- Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1864) (Hon. Billy F. Osawaru) –First Reading.
- Whistle Blowing Bill, 2024 (HB.1563) (Hon. Akintunde Rotimi) – First Reading.
- Advanced Healthcare Development Fund (Establishment) Bill, 2024. (HB.1813) (Hon. Akintunde Rotimi) – First Reading.
- National Guards Bill, 2024. (HB.1828) (Hon. Bashir Zubairu Usman) – First Reading.
- State Internally Generated Revenue (Disbursement) Bill, 2024. (HB.1854) (Hon. Cryril Hart Godwin & one others) – First Reading.
- Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1911) (Hon. Fatima Talba) – First Reading.
- Federal Universities of Agriculture Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1912) (Hon. Sadiq Ango Abdullahi) – First Reading.
- Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1913) (Hon. Sadiq Ango Abdullahi) – First Reading.
- Electoral Act (Amendment) (Off Season Legislative Elections) Bill (HB.1914) (Hon. Paul Sunday Nnamchi) – First Reading.
- National Senior Secondary Education Commission Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1834) (Hon. Mark B. Useni) – First Reading.
- FCT Displaced Original Inhabitants Resettlement and Integrated Agency (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1707) (Hon. Joshua Chinedu Obika & 18 others) – First Reading.
- National Assembly Financial Management (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1926) (Hon. Ali Isa JC) – First Reading.
- Headquarter Situation and Relocation (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1927) (Hon. Ali Isa JC) – First Reading.
- Federal College of Animal husbandry, Kaoje, Kebbi State (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1929) (Hon. Bello A. Kaoje) – First Reading.
PRESENTATION OF REPORTS
- Committee on Aids, Loans and Debt Management:
Hon. Abubakar Hassan Nalaraba:
“That the House do receive the Report of Committee on Aids, Loans and Debt Management on Request for Approval for the Implementation of New External Borrowing of ₦1,767,610,321,779.00 (USD2.209B Equivalent) in the 2024 Appropriation Act through the Issuance of Eurobonds and other Sources” (Referred:19/11/2024).
The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Abubakar Nalaraba and seconded by Hon. Lanre Okunlola.
- Committee on Health Institutions:
Hon. Amos Gwamna Magaji:
“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Health Institutions on a Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Medical Centres Act, to Establish Federal Medical Centre, Epe, Lagos State and for Related Matters (HB. 1449)” (Referred: 11/7/2024).
Laying of the report was stepped down by leave of the House
- Committee on Health Institutions:
Hon. Amos Gwamna Magaji:
“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Health Institutions on a Bill for an Act to Establish Federal College of Nursing and Midwifery, Hawul, Borno State and for Related Matters (HB 280)” (Referred: 22/5/2024).
Laying of the report was stepped down by leave of the House
- Committee on Health Institutions:
Hon. Amos Gwamna Magaji:
“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Health Institutions on a Bill for an Act to Provide for Establishment of the Federal College of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Sciences, Damagum, Fune, Yobe State and for Related Matters. (HB.1022)” (Referred: 6/6/2024)
Laying of the report was stepped down by leave of the House
- Committee on Health Institutions:
Hon. Amos Gwamna Magaji:
“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Health Institutions on a Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Medical Centres, Act to Establish Federal Medical Centre, Okehi, Kogi State to Provide Primary to Tertiary Healthcare Services in all Ramifications and for Related Matters (HB.776)” (Referred: 20/12/2023)
Laying of the report was stepped down by leave of the House
- Committee on Health Institutions:
Hon. Amos Gwamna Magaji:
“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Health Institutions on a Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Medical Centres Act to Establish Federal Medical Centre, Achi, Enugu State and for Related Matters (HB.1220)” (Referred: 18/7/2024)
Laying of the report was stepped down by leave of the House
BILLS
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act, 2021 (as amended) to make Provisions for Establishment of Federal College of Agricultural Technology, Opialu–Ojapo, Benue State to contribute to the Development of Nigeria through Training of Qualitative Manpower in Agriculture by adequate exposure to Sound Theoretical Background, Practical Farm and field Demonstration and for Related Matters (SB.212) (Senate) – (Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Third Reading.
Debate
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere moved for the third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Ali Isa. The Bill was voted on, read for the third time and passed.
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Universities of Agriculture Act, Cap. F22, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2024 and Establish Federal University of Agricultural, Kabba, Kogi State and for Related Matters (HB. 1520) (Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Third Reading.
Debate
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere moved for the third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Ali Isa. The Bill was voted on, read for the third time and passed.
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the University Teaching Hospitals (Reconstitution of Boards, etc.) Act, Cap. U15, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and for Related Matters (HB.962) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Third Reading.
Debate
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere moved for the third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Ali Isa. The Bill was voted on, read for the third time and passed.
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Medical Centres Acts and Establish Federal Medical Centre, Kwale, Delta State and for Related Matters (HB. 680) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Third Reading.
Debate
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere moved for the third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Ali Isa. The Bill was voted on, read for the third time and passed.
- Consolidation of Bills:
(a) A Bill for an Act to Amend the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act, Cap. C 15 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2024 to insulate Judicial Officers from Prosecution before being Lawfully removed from Office and for Related Matters (HB. 1178) (Hon. Solomon T. Bob); and
(b) A Bill for an Act to Amend the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act 2004 to Enable Public Officers maintain foreign Bank Account outside Nigeria for the Purpose of Accessing Funds while on Official Duties to facilitate Transactions for pressing family needs and auxiliary expenses and for Related Matters (HB.1894) (Hon. Bello Isa Ambarura).
Debate
Hon. Francis Waive moved for the consolidation of the Bills and it was seconded by Hon. Bello Ambarura. The motion for consolidation was voted on, adopted and the House Committee on Rules and Business was asked to schedule a date for the debate on the general principles of the newly consolidated Bill.
- A Bill for an Act to Alter the Second Schedule to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Act, 1999 (as amended) to transfer Mines and Minerals, Including Oil Fields, Oil Mining, Geological Surveys and Natural Gas from the Exclusive Legislative List to the Concurrent Legislative List and for Related Mattes (HB. 1545) (Hon. Abbas Tajudeen and Hon. Babajimi Benson) – Second Reading.
Second reading of the Bill stepped down by leave of the House
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja (Number Of Judges) Cap H6, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to Provide for Increase in the Number of Judges in the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja and for Related Matters (HB.1635) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu and seven others) – Second Reading.
Debate
Hon. Benjamin Kalu moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kama Nkemkanma. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on FCT Judiciary as well as that on the Review of the Constitution.
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Colleges of Education Act, No. 43 to Establish the Federal College of Education, (Technical) Uzebba-Iuleha, Edo State and for Related Matters (HB 1852) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Second Reading.
Debate
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere moved for the second reading of the Bill. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Federal Colleges of Education.
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the North West Development Commission Act, 2024 to provide for Geo-Political Representation in the Governing Board of the Commission and for Related Matters (SB. 567) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Second Reading.
Second reading of the Bill stepped down by leave of the House.
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the South East Development Commission Act, 2024 to provide for fair representation of member States, Geo-Political Representation in the Governing Board of the Commission and for Related Matters (SB. 568) (Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Second Reading.
Second reading of the Bill stepped down by leave of the House.
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Medical Centres Act and Establish Federal Medical Centre, Ankpa, Kogi State and for Related Matters (HB. 1855) (Hon. Abdullahi Ibrahim Ali) – Second Reading.
Debate
Hon. Abdullahi Ali moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Zannah Usman. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Health Institutions.
- A Bill for an Act to Alter the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) to create a single term of six years for the office of President and State Governors, recognize the division of Nigeria into the six Geopolitical zones, provide for the rotation of the office of President, State Governor and chairman of a Local Government Council among the Inherent regions and zones, and provide that all elections be held on a single day and for Related Matters (HB. 1511) (Hon. Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere and thirty –three others) – Second Reading.
Debate
Hon. Ikeagwuonu UgoChinyere moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Aguocha Obinna. The motion for second reading was voted on, but not approved for debate.
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) Act to Change the Use of the Word National Interest to Public Benefit and to Increase the Period Provided for a term of Contract as Prerequisite to Registration of the Document under this Act from 10 years to 20 years and strengthen the capacity of the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion to Monitor, on a continual basis, the transfer of Foreign Technology to Nigeria, to encourage, regulate, and Commercialize Inventions, Innovations and Research and Development Results more effectively and enhanced diversified Representation in its governance for broader sectorial coverage and for Related Matters (HBS.1788 &1846) ((Hon. Ngozi Okolie) and Hon. Tijjani Zanna Zakariya) – Second Reading.
Debate
Hon. Tijani Zakariya moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Abubabakar Yalleman. Hon. Zakariya in leading the debate explained that the Bill seeks to ensure the employment of modern technology to the application of the functions of the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion. This he stated is in order to ensure precise and updated research and development in the field. Hon. Zakariya urged Honorable Members to support it for the benefit of Nigerians The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Science and Technology.
- A Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and for Related Matters (HB.1138) (Hon. Olamijuwonlo Ayodeji Alao Akala) – Second Reading.
Debate
Hon. Ayodeji Alao Akala moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Regina Akume. Hon. Akala in leading the debate stated that the Bill seeks to amend the Constitution to respond to the social call of people in the region to recognize Ogbomoso as an ancient empire. It also seeks to ensure its heritage as a political, social and traditional symbol. It will also promote balance and structure in the region as an important traditional tourist attraction. He called on Honorable Members to support its approval.
Hon. Cyril Godwin supported the Bill in the spirit of justice and fairness and stated that he expects such Bills to come also from other regions, especially the Southeastern part of Nigeria. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on the Review of the Constitution.
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Highways Act to empower the Minister of Works to direct, authorise and instruct every Agency, Ministry, Parastatals and Department of the Federal Government involved in the design and Construction of Federal Roads to include the Construction of Public Utilities on the shoulder/side of all Federal Roads across the Federation and for Related Matters (HB. 779) (Hon. Sesi Olusegun Whinghan) – Second Reading.
Debate
Hon. Whigan Oluaseun moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Jafaru Yakubu. Hon. Whigan in leading the debate stated that Bill seeks the deliberate creation of parks where passengers can conveniently ease themselves during their travels.
Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka in contributing, clarified that the terms used in the Bill are what may seem unclear, but the spirit of the Bill is quite commendable.
Hon. Satomi Ahmed also praised the intent of the Bill and clarified that it means the creation of ‘serviceability points’ along highways which is in line with international best practice for the accommodation of such facilities as security checkpoints, petrol stations, conveniences etc.
In light of that, Hon. Whigan moved for the amendment to remove the term “Shoulder of the road”. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Works.
MOTIONS
- Illegal Harvesting and Commercialisation of Human Eggs in Nigeria:
Hon. Kwamoti Bitrus La’ori:
The House:
Notes that the commercialization of human eggs, particularly in the context of illegal harvesting, poses significant ethical, legal, and health concerns globally, in Nigeria, the issue has gained prominence due to a growing demand for assisted reproductive technologies amid insufficient regulations;
Also notes that Nigeria’s healthcare system, particularly reproductive health, is still evolving coupled with increasing infertility rates among couples seeking assisted reproductive treatments, thus leading to a flourishing market for human eggs;
Concerned that the demand for human eggs has led to exploitative practices such as illegal egg harvesting and commercialization, often targeting vulnerable women, particularly poor teenagers unaware of the risks involved;
Aware that in 2021, Nigerian authorities discovered an illegal egg harvesting scheme in Lagos, where a network of medical professionals and agents lured young women, mostly students or low-income earners, with the assurance of monetary rewards for their eggs, reportedly, women received between N200, 000 and N500, 000, or $120 to $300, for their participation which is below international pricing standards;
Also concerned that a large number of women had little knowledge about the medical procedures, potential health risks, and ethical implications of egg donation, some experienced ovarian hyper stimulation syndrome (OHSS) and other serious health issues after harvest; a woman’s complications during an operation at a local clinic led to an investigation by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP);
Further concerned that in 2022, an Abuja-based fertility clinic was found involved in the illegal commercialization of human eggs to foreign clients, enrolling women under false claims of being part of legitimate egg donation programs. Reports suggest the clinic’s online platform is inflating egg prices for international couples, underscoring the need for robust Nigerian regulatory frameworks to regulate fertility practices;
Worried that the absence of comprehensive legislation governing reproductive health in Nigeria has allowed these illegal activities to thrive. While the National Health Act provides some guidelines for reproductive health, specific regulations regarding egg donation and commercialization are lacking;
Further worried that due to the effects of the worsening economic situation in the country, this illegal practice has thrived, with many young women seeking financial relief falling prey to unscrupulous practitioners who exploit their desperation for financial relief, ignoring the health risks associated with egg retrieval procedures as well as the unethical commodification of human life and the psychological impact on donors;
Resolves to:
(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Development, and the Ministry of Women Affairs and to create support systems for women who have participated in egg donation to help address health complications and psychological impacts;
(ii) also urge the Ministry of Health and Social Development, and the Ministry of Information and National Orientation to intensify public awareness initiatives focusing on the risks and ethical considerations of egg donation to help inform potential donors and discourage exploitation;
(iii) mandate the Committee on Healthcare Services to investigate the spate of illegal egg donation and practice of assisted reproductive health technologies in Nigeria, recommend measures to prevent further incidents and report within four (4) weeks for further legislative action;
(iv) also mandate the Committees on Healthcare Services and Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance.
Debate
Hon. Bitrus Laori moved the motion on illegal harvesting and commercialization of human eggs in Nigeria and it was seconded by Hon. Adedayo Olumuyiwa. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Healthcare Services, Public Services as well as that on Special Duties.
- Need to Investigate the Activities of Anti –Corruption and Transparency Units (CTUs) in Ministries, Departments and Agencies of Government in the Country:
Hon. Shehu Umar Ajilo:
The House
Recalls that the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission requested the establishment of an Anti-Corruption Transparency Unit, popularly referred to as ACTU, in all MDAs to help in the fight against corruption;
Notes that on October 2, 2001, and April 16, 2003, two circulars were issued for the establishment and funding of the units, respectively;
Also notes that another circular was issued on October 5, 2016, re-emphasizing both the establishment and funding of the units in all MDAs;
Further notes that the ACTUs in each organization are expected to operate as an autonomous outfit of which its independence and protection shall be guaranteed;
Aware that the unit is supposed to be the watchdog or an anti-corruption division saddled with the responsibility of monitoring the activities of Federal Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies and reporting any matter that is regarded as a corrupt practice to the ICPC for further action;
Worried that despite these circulars and efforts, corrupt practices still persist in most MDAs, and if not checked, corruption will continue forever;
Resolves to:
mandate the Committee on Anti-Corruption to investigate the activities of Anti-Corruption Transparency Units (ACTU) in all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in the country and report within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.
Debate
Hon. Shehu Ajilo moved the motion on the need to investigate the activities of Anti –Corruption and Transparency Units (CTUs) in Ministries, Departments and Agencies of Government in the country and it was seconded by Hon. Adamu Gamawa. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Anti-Corruption.
- Call to Investigate and Prosecute Age Falsification in Nigeria’s Civil Service:
Hon. Yusuf Ahmed Badau:
The House:
Notes that the Federal Civil Service of the Federation is the heartbeat of the Public Service Administration in the Executive, Legislative, and Judiciary;
Also notes that the roles of civil servants constitute the foundation of nation-building; consequently, a strong and viable public service system is needed to promote an effective and efficient public service to the country;
Aware that the primary responsibility of the Legislative Arm of Government in Nigeria is to monitor and investigate violations of laws enacted by it, which include matters pertaining to age falsification and other matters related to the public service in Nigeria;
Also aware that the rising number of unemployment caused by age falsification is highly of concern and requires urgent investigation and prosecution;
Concerned that in the last quarter of 2024, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) report indicated that the unemployment rate has risen by 5.3%, making Nigeria one of the countries with the most unemployed populace in the African continent;
Also concerned that the number of graduates without jobs is extremely worrying, requiring swift action to address the issue through investigation and prosecution of age falsification offenders in order to create space for bright new minds to impart in the productivity and prosperity of the public service in Nigeria.
Resolves to:
(i) mandate the Committees on Public Service Matters, Special Duties, Federal Character, and National Planning and Economic Development to invite the Head of Service of the Federation to provide comprehensive details of all civil servants assigned to the Ministries, Department and Agencies (MDAs) for verification to track down the offenders;
(ii) also mandate the Committees on Public Service Matters, Special Duties, Federal Character, and National Planning and Economic Development to investigate the Head of Civil Service of the Federation’s Report and report within six (6) weeks for further legislative action; and
(iii) also mandate the Committee on Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance.
Debate
Hon. Yusuf Badau moved the motion on a call to investigate and prosecute age falsification in Nigeria’s Civil Service and it was seconded by Hon. Useni Jalo.
Hon. Ahmed Jaha proposed an amendment to prayer 2 calling for 4 weeks for the action timeline for the motion, instead of 6 weeks. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committee on Public Service Matters, Special Duties, Federal Character as well as that on National Planning.
- Devastating Effect of the 2022 and 2024 Floods: Need to Mitigate the Effects of the Impending Flood due to the Release of Water From the Lagdo Dam:
Hon. Obuzor Victor:
The House:
Notes that Nigeria experiences rainy season between June and September annually, and most States, including Rivers, have been severely affected by flooding during this period, resulting in destroyed infrastructure, crops, and livelihoods, and displacement of communities.
Also notes that between November 26 and December 4, 2022, the Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) of the United Nations International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Nigerian Red Cross Society (NCRS) identified 28 locations in Rivers State affected by floods, with Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA having the highest number of affected persons numbering 186,610 individuals, followed by Ahoda West Local Gocal Government Area with 45, 690 individuals;
Aware that on September 17, 2024, the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) alerted the public about the release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon, which previously caused the 2022 flooding and devastation in Ahoada-West/Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni, the release submerged over 60% of the land mass, displacing people, destroying livelihoods, damaged farmlands and infrastructure;
Also aware of the NIHSA 2024 Flood Outlook Report, which placed Ahoada-West/Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni in the High-Risk Area/Red Zone and recommended desilting waterways, building embankments, and developing flood mitigation infrastructure, the Ndoni River, as a distributary of the Niger-Benue system, channels massive water flows, exacerbating the flood risk in the constituency.
Recalls that in 2012, President Goodluck Jonathan promised to complete a 208-kilometer dredging project for the Orashi River to reduce flood risks and protect communities, but the project remains incomplete;
Concerned that despite the World Bank’s Disaster-Resilience Analytics, the Global Rapid (Post Disaster) Damage Estimation (GRADE) Assessment, and multiple reports recommending proactive measures, relevant agencies have delayed action to prepare for potential 2024 floods;
Resolves to:
(i) urge the Ministries of Water Resources, Environment, Inland Waterways Agency, Works, and the NDDC to commence the desilting and dredging of the Ndoni Creek, Orashi River, Omoku Creek, and Sombreiro River to increase their capacity for managing excess water and include same in the 2025 budget estimates ;
(ii) also urge the Ministry of Works to construct buffer dams at strategic inlets Ndoni to mitigate overflow from the Niger River into the Orashi and Sombreiro Rivers;
(iii) further urge National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide relief material including healthcare services, to the affected communities and implement flood-early-warning systems to enhance community resilience;
(iv) again urge the Ministry of Environment to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in Ahoada-West/Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni to evaluate the pollution caused by oil and gas exploration, exacerbated by flood events;
(v) also urge the Ecological Fund Office to undertake river embankments and shoreline protection projects in affected communities of Odiereke, Oshiobele, Akinnima, Omoku, and Ndoni, to halt riverbank erosion and improve water transportation; and
(vi) mandate the Committee on works to ensure compliance and report progress within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.
Debate
Hon. Obuzor Victor moved the motion on the devastating effect of the 2022 and 2024 floods: need to mitigate the effects of the impending flood due to the release of water from the Lagdo Dam and it was seconded by Hon. Alex Ikwechegh. The motion was voted on and adopted as related to its prayers.
- Rehabilitation of Nsukka Nkpgu–Adani Road:
Hon. Martins Oke:
The House:
Notes that the forty-Kilometre Nsukka-Nkpologu-Adani Road is a Federal Road extending through other towns in Anambra State to Onitsha towns;
Also notes that Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area is a major food basket in the South – East, housing Adani Farm Settlement and Adarice Project, a joint project between Enugu State Government and Federal Government;
Also notes that recently, the Nigeria Navy commenced the Construction of a Jetty at Ogrugu Town, a neighbouring community to Adani in the same Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area;
Concerned that Nsukka-Nkpologu-Adani Road is in a deplorable state and major parts of the road have become impassable, thereby preventing farmers, traders and other users from plying and benefitting from the business opportunities that abound in the area;
Worried that Nsukka-Nkpologu-Adani roads linking to agrarian communities in the State is in a dilapidated state and currently experiencing kidnappings and robbery attacks, leading to loss of lives and properties, and ultimately, having detrimental effects on food production and distribution in Enugu State and Nigeria at large;
Also worried that the deplorable state of the road has caused immense hardship and undermined the Federal Government’s efforts to achieve food security and protect lives and properties;
Cognizant that rehabilitation and reconstruction of the road will stimulate sustainable agricultural production in the area and improve the socioeconomic status of the people and the country as a whole;
Resolves to:
(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Works and Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to include the rehabilitate the Nsukka-Nkpologu-Adani Road in 2025 budget estimates; and
(ii) mandate the Committees on Works and Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to ensure compliance.
Debate
Hon. Martins Oke moved the motion on the need for the rehabilitation of the Nsukka Nkpgu–Adani road and it was seconded by Hon. Miriam Onuoha. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Works as well as that on Federal Road Maintenance Agency.
CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS (HOUSE IN THE COMMITTEE ON SUPPLY) Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu Chaired:
- Committee on Aids, Loans and Debt Management:
Hon. Abubakar Hassan Nalaraba:
“That the House do consider the Report of Committee on Aids, Loans and Debt Management on Request for Approval for the Implementation of New External Borrowing of ₦1,767,610,321,779.00 (USD2.209B Equivalent) in the 2024 Appropriation Act through the Issuance of Eurobonds and other Sources and approve recommendations therein” (Laid:21/11/2024).
(i) approve the implementation of the New External Borrowing of one trillion, seven hundred and sixty-seven billion, six hundred and ten million, three hundred twenty-one thousand, seven hundred and seventy-nine Naira (₦1,767, 610,321,779.00) (equivalent of USD2, 209, 512, 902. 22b) at the Budget Exchange rate of USD1.00/800 in the 2024 Appropriation Act and that the amount should be raised from one or more sources. Namely; issuance of Eurobonds in the ICM, Issuance of debut sovereign Sukuk in the ICM, & Bridge/syndicated loans, subject to market conditions;
(ii) that based on availability and cost, to issue Eurobonds in the sum of USD1.70 billion or more, but not more than USD2,209,512,902,.22b, approved as New External Borrowing in the 2024 Act;
(iii) given the significant increase in the official exchange rate from USD1.00/₦800 to approximately ₦1,640, it is recommended that the exchange rate excess resulting from this adjustment be exclusively utilized for implementation of capital projects in 2024, to ensure that additional funds are directed to impactful infrastructure & developmental projects that will contribute to the Nation’s long term growth and stability;
(iv) approve the Promissory Note Programme and Bond Issuance to settle outstanding claims and liabilities of the Federal Government. This approval prioritizes the issuance of Promissory Notes to address outstanding reimbursement debts owed to States, high-priority judgment debts, and other liabilities incurred by Federal Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. This measure is critical to preventing additional interest costs, mitigating further increases in the Federal Government’s debt profile, and reducing the debt-to-GDP ratio; and
(v) that the Hon. Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, working with the Debt Management Office are authorised to take all necessary actions required to give effect to this Resolution.
Summary of voting:
Recommendations voted on and adopted: 1-5
HOUSE IN PLENARY:
The House reverted to plenary and adopted the report of the Committee on Supply following a motion by Hon. Julius Ihonbvere and seconded by Hon. Aliyu Madaki
Hon. Julius Inonbvere moved a motion for the House to suspend its relevant rules and allow it adopt the votes and proceedings of the day and it was seconded by Hon. Aliyu Madaki
House Adjournment:
The House at 13:56 adjourned plenary to Tuesday, November 26th, 2024 by 11:00 A.M following a motion for adjournment moved by the Leader of the House, Hon. Julius Ihonbvere and seconded by the Deputy Minority Leader, Hon. Aliyu Madaki.
Courtesy: LightRay! Media and Media Unit, Office of the Speaker, House of Representatives.
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