Nigeria National Assembly: Plenary, House of Reps, Wed, Feb 5th, 2025

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

By admin , in Inside stories , at February 6, 2025 Tags: #LightRayMedia, #NASS, Ejiro Umukoro Publisher and Editor in Chief, House of Representatives, Journalism, LightRay Media, Nigeria National Assembly

After the recitation of the First stanza of the National Anthem, the National Pledge and opening prayer, the Deputy Speaker approved the second votes and proceedings of Tuesday, February 4th, 2025

ANNOUNCEMENT:

Communication from Mr. President:
2025 Appropriation Bill: Allocation of additional revenue of 4.53 Trillion Naira to enhance the budget’s responsiveness to the Nation’s most pressing needs. These funds were made possible and available by the activities of revenue generating Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies. The disbursement of these funds to the under-listed sectors will strengthen Government’s resolve to solidify Nigeria’s Non-Oil Sector by unlocking vast potentials in the sectors. The chosen Sectors include:
I. Solid Mineral Development.
II. Recapitalization of the Bank of Agriculture.
III. Recapitalization of the Bank of Industry.
IV. Critical Infrastructure Projects.
V. Reconstruction of Vital Roads and Highways.
VI. Border Community Infrastructure.
VII. Military Baracks Accommodations.
VIII. Military Aviation.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu urged the National Assembly to continue the partnership in progress with the Executive for the good governance of Nigeria. He stated that should any further clarification on any issue be needed; the Executive is ready to avail Parliament with such details. The Presiding Speaker referred the Communication to the House Committee on Appropriations and urged it to continue its work judiciously. He stated that should the need arise for any further debate on the communication from the President, it will be entertained.

Hon. Kingsley Chinda rose on a Point of Order stating that there seems to be a lack of procedural process in the presentation of the contents of the communication from Mr. President. He wondered why the funds were not put into the still running 2024 budget.

The Presiding Speaker clarified that the House is merely communicating a message from the President in line with Order 1 (2) of the House Rules.

PETITIONS:

Hon. Billy Osawaru laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against Afri Investment Limited on the alleged arbitrary and fraudulent sale of a multinational company, it’s shares and assets.
Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against an organization on alleged non payment of salaries for over 24 months.
Hon. Patrick Umoh laid 3 petitions on behalf of different complainants which include:
I. Against the PortHarcourt Distribution Company (PHDC) for alleged exorbitant billing of customers.
II. Against an Organization on alleged inhuman acts and dumping of toxic waste on a family farm land.
Hon. Jesse Onuakalusi laid 2 petitions on behalf of 2 complainants:
I. Against Midwest Oil and Gas on alleged uncontrolled gas flaring which continues to constitute health hazards to the community environment.
II. The next is against another Energy Company for alleged gross violation of an agreement.
Hon. Chris Nkwonta laid a petition on behalf of a community calling for the reinstatement of a contract to secure oil pipelines from Imo River to Abia state to local contractors, and request for the enforcement Local Content Laws.
Hon. Mohammed Jajere laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against a Petroleum Company with prayers inclosed in the petition.
Hon. Ojuawo Adeniyi laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against the Ministry of Interior, Nigeria Security Civil Defense Corp as well as the Nigerian Correctional Services on alleged injustice done to him by the Nigeria Correctional Services.
Hon. Abdullahi Halims laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against Officers of the Nigeria Police on alleged violation of Court Orders and undue interference of Legal proceedings.

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

MATTERS OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE:

Hon. Patrick Umoh moved a motion on the need to investigate the unsolicited and illegal linking of National Identification Number (NIN) by telecommunication service providing companies in Nigeria and it was seconded by Hon. Mohammed Yusuf. Hon. Umoh in leading the debate stated that the linking of the NIN without the consent of users is a clear violation of the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 which guarantees the privacy of every Nigerian. He stated that the NIN is used for security protection of Nigerians and should not be exposed to such acts as cyber fraud and identity theft that have now become the order of the day. Hon. Umoh called on the Nigeria Communications Commission to investigate and ensure any such company found culpable is made to face the legal penalties. He also called on the House Committee on Communications as well as that on Interior to conduct a thorough investigation and report back to the House within 4 weeks for further legislative action.

Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka praised the spirit of the motion and stated that it is a response to the outcry by Nigerians against criminal elements who have capitalized on the lapses of these communication service providers in protecting Nigerian’s data. He stated that he himself is a victim of unknown numbers linked to his NIN. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Communications as well as that on Interior.

Hon. Yinka Aluko moved a motion on the need to address the spate of accidents of petroleum tankers on major roads near Kwara state as well as others occurring nationwide and it was seconded by Hon. Kalejaye Paul. Hon. Aluko in leading the debate bemoaned the increasing incidence of fatal accidents of petroleum tankers on Nigerian highways leading to wanton loss of lives and properties. He stated that the Okolowo area in Kwara state has suffered more than its fair share of these accidents leading to the loss of scores of lives and properties, this he stated has continued to negatively affect socioeconomic activities of residents within the region. Hon. Aluko called on the Federal Ministry of Works in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corp to ensure strict adherence to driving safety regulations and ensure the road is rehabilitated and made more motor-able, and that the Federall Ministry on Transportation should ensure the relevant Transport Workers Associations enforce more efficient safety transport programs for drivers The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Works, Transport and well as that on National Orientation Agency.
Hon. Mukhtar Chawai moved a motion on the need to deploy more security personnel and equipment to contain the rising spate of insecurity in Kaduna state and it was seconded by Hon. Dominic Chukwuokafor. Hon. Chawai in leading the debate stressed the need for the deployment of more security personnel to complement the achievements of ‘Operation Safe Haven’ working within the environment. He stated that increasing incidence of killings and kidnappings has necessitated the need for the call for the deployment of added security personnel and hardware to the state. Hon. Chawai called on the Inspector General of Police as well as the Chief of Defense Staff to immediately deploy more personnel to ensure safety of lives and properties within Kaduna state. He also called for more sophisticated hardware to aid the personnel in carrying out their duties effectively. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Defense, Army as well as that on Police Affairs.
Hon. Billy Osawaru moved a motion on the need for the Nigeria Police to liaise with vigilantes and other such security forces to ensure the combing of forests nationwide to forestall the hibernation of the activities of unknown gunmen, bandits, kidnappers as well as herdsmen and it was seconded by Hon. Oluaseun Whingan. Hon. Osawaru in leading the debate stressed the need for collaboration between the police and other local security outfits to combat the growing cases of insecurity nationwide as the funds lost to paying ransom to bandits and kidnappers is staggering, especially in a period of high economic crunch. He stated that the rising insecurity has continued to contribute to food insecurity as farmers are scared to go to their farmlands. Hon. Osawaru called on the Nigerian Police and other Security Agencies to ensure the combing of forests nationwide to forestall the hibernation of the activities of unknown gunmen, bandits, kidnappers as well as herdsmen. He further called on the House Committee on Police, Army as well as those on other relevant Security Agencies to ensure compliance.

Hon. Dennis Agbo proposed an amendment to prayer 2 of the motion for the Police and other Security Services to deploy drones and other satellite technology for surveillance of the forests.

Hon. Philip Agbese also proposed an amendment to prayer 2 of the motion calling for the House Committee on Police Affairs to be the lead Committee of the referral. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committee on Police Affairs, Army, Interior as well as that on Legislative Compliance.

Hon. Donald Kimikamboh moved a motion on the need to declare the sea ravaged and submerged oil producing communities in Ondo state as an emergency area and it was seconded by Hon. Mohammed Lateef. Hon. Donald in leading the debate stated that communities of the region account for an estimated 5.8% of crude oil output. Hence the continued neglect of environmental standards that has continued to contribute to ecological degradation within these communities is unacceptable. He expressed concern that if urgent steps are not taken, the communities may become irredeemable. Hon. Donald called on the Federal Government to take urgent and decisive steps and actions to ensure the dire situation is adequately addressed. He also called on the House Committee on Ecological Fund, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), National Emergency and Disaster Management as well as that on Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on National Emergency and Disaster Management, Legislative Compliance as well as that on NDDC.

PRESENTATION OF BILLS

National Assembly Service (Establishment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2065) (Abbas Tajudeen) – First Reading.
National Institute for Fishery Management, Bagwai, Kano State (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1865) (Hon. Ahmad Yusuf Badau) – First Reading.
Federal College of Entrepreneurship and Skills Development, Gombi, Adamawa State (Est.) Bill, 2024 (HB.1995) (Hon James Shuaibu Barka) – First Reading.
National Sugar Development Council Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB. 2022) (Hon. Enitan Dolapo Badiru) – First Reading.
National Agricultural Development Fund Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2036) (Hon. Bello A. Ka’oje and Hon. Saba Ahmed Adam) – First Reading.
National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2037) (Hon. Jubrin Abdulmumin) – First Reading.
Nigerian Association of paralegals (Establishment) Bill 2025 (HB.1992) (Hon. Abdulmalik Zubairu) – First Reading.
Criminal Code Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2038) (Hon. Jubrin Abdulmumin) – First Reading.
National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) Act (Amendment Bill) (HB.2055) (Hon. Afolabi Moruf Atuape) – First Reading.
Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2024) (Hon. Leke Joseph Abejide) – First Reading
Orthopaedic Hospital Management Board Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB. 2010) (Hon. Khadija Bukar Abba Ibrahim and Five others) – first Reading.
Federal University of agriculture and Entrepreneurship, Bama (Establishment, etc) Bill, 2024 (SB. 186) (Senate) – First Reading.
Federal College of Entrepreneurship and Skills Acquisition, Mubi, Adamawa State (Establishment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2026) (Hon. Ja’afar Abubakar Magaji) – First Reading.
Federal University of Oil and Gas Technology, Igbokoda, Ondo State Bill, 2025 (HB.2032) (Hon. Donald Kimikanboh Ojogo) – First Reading.
National Institute for Vocational and Entrepreneurial Studies, Agadagba Obon-Arogbo, Ondo State (Establishment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2033) (Hon. Donald Kimikanboh Ojogo) – First Reading.
National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (Hon. Ogewu David Agada) – First Reading.
Federal Capital Territory Scholarship Board (Establishment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2027) (Hon. Joshua Chinedu Obika) – First Reading.
Public Health Council of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2029) (Hon. Dawodu Bashiru Ayinla) – First Reading.
Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 Act (Alteration) Bill, 2025 (Change of the Local Government from Aiyekire LGA to Aiyedire LGA, Ekiti State) (HB. 2028) (Hon. Olufemi Richard Bamisile) – First Reading.
National Assembly Financial Management Bill, 2024 (HB. 1926) (Hon. Ali Isa) – First Reading.
University of Abuja Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB. 2014) (Hon. Ogewu David Agada) – First Reading.
Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission’s Meter Reading, Billing, Cash Collection and Credit Management for Electricity Supplies Regulations (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB. 2015) (Hon. Victor Nwokolo) – First Reading.
Companies and Allied Matters Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB. 2016) (Hon. Victor Nwokolo) – First Reading.
National Mathematical Centre Act (Amendment) Bill, 2014 (HB. 2016) (Hon. Victor Nwokolo) – First Reading.
University of Abuja Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB. 2020) (Hon. Ishaya David Lalu) – First Reading.

PRESENTATION OF REPORTS

Committee on Healthcare Services:
Hon. Amos Magaji:
“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Healthcare Service on a Bill for an Act to Establish Institute of Health Service Administrators of Nigeria to Provide for the Control, Health Administration and Regulation of the activities of its Members and for Related Matters (HB.935)” (Referred: 29/2/2024).

The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Amos Magaji and seconded by Hon. Abdullahi El-Rasheed.

Committee on Healthcare Services:
Hon. Amos Magaji:
“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Healthcare Service on a Bill for an Act to Amend the National Tobacco Control Act, 2015 to cure certain defects in the Act, ensure its effective Implementation in Nigeria and address the Lacuna that may be easily exploited by the Tobacco Industry in Nigeria and impose stiffer Penalties for Smoking of Tobacco in Public Places and for Related Matters (HBs.47 & 1151)” (Referred: 18/7/2024).

The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Amos Magaji and seconded by Hon. Abdullahi El-Rasheed.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

BILLS

A Bill for an Act to Repeal the Nigeria Legion Act, Cap. N119, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and Enact the Veteran Federation of Nigeria to ensure the proper Welfare and Health condition of the Military Veterans, Expand the Operation and Functions of the Veteran Federation for National Development and for Related Matters (HB. 1950) (Hon. Rufus Ojuawo Adeniyi) – Second Reading.

Debate
Hon. Rufus Adeniyi moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Ahmed Jaha.

Hon. Kingsley Chinda commended the intention of the Bill, but pointed out that the Nigerian Legion Act also incorporates retired non-Military personnel, the Bill as it is he stated will not take care of the concerns of such persons.

Hon. Abdussamad Dasuki also supported the Bill, but agreed with Hon. Chinda and called for due consultation with the provisions of the Veterans Act.

Hon. Adeniyi in exercising his right of reply applauded the concerns of Hon. Chinda and Hon. Dasuki but stated that the Military of Defense has the mechanism to accommodate all sectors of personnel. He however conceded to step down the Bill and bring a fresh view in line with the Veteran’s Act subsequently. The Bill was then stepped down for further legislative action.

A Bill for an Act to Amend the National Health Act, No. 8 of 2014 to Provide a framework for Establishment of a National Quality Accreditation Commission, Federal Territory Institution Commission and for Related Matters (HB.802) (Hon. Adedayo Adesola Samuel) – Second Reading.

Debate
Hon. Adesola Adedayo moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Bello Ambarura. Hon. Adebayo in leading the debate stressed the need for the establishment of the Commission to cure the need to properly regulate and accredit Tertiary Health workers in Health Institutions nationwide in order to ensure the provision of proper healthcare services for Nigerians. He stated that the amendments aim to ensure strict alignment and adherence to evolving international health standards. He urged Honorable Members to support it for the good of all Nigerians. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Healthcare Services.

A Bill for an Act to Establish Federal College of Nursing and Midwifery, Mangu, Plateau State to Provide Training and Research in General Nursing, Midwifery and other Specialties of Nursing and for Related Matters (HB. 1748) (Hon. Ishaya David Lalu) – Second Reading.

Debate
Hon. Ishaya Lalu moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Unyime Idem. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Health Institutions.

A Bill for an Act to Provide for Establishment of National Obstetrics Fistula Centre, for Treatment, Rehabilitation, Reintegration Research and Training, Babbar-Ruga, Kastina State and for Related Matters (HB. 1190) (Hon. Dalhatu Shehu) – Second Reading.

Debate
Hon. Dalhatu Shehu moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Henry Odianosen. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Specialty Healthcare.

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

Debate
Hon. Solomon Bob moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Adepoju Adebayo.

Hon. Clement Jimbo rose on a Constitutional Point of Order siting Section 308 of the Nigerian Constitution which clearly spells out the category of individuals to enjoy immunity, and Judicial workers are not included.

Hon. Bob in exercising his right of reply stated that the Bill simply seeks to prevent the harassment of Judicial Officials while discharging their duties. Section 292 of the Constitution he stated assures a Judicial Official is covered in carrying out such duties. Any such Official he stated, if found culpable of any crime, can be removed from Office and then prosecuted. The Bill simply seeks to protect the Judicial Officer from being hounded and harassed for actions in the line of duty.

Hon. Kalejaye Paul stated that the Bill is truly in conflict with Section 308 as pointed out by Hon. Jimbo, so that Officials from other sectors do not start applying for undue immunity.

Hon. Sada Soli in his contribution stated that the Bill if implemented may add complication to the system. He however sited that Honorable Members do not have distributed copies of the Bill for them to make more informed decisions. On this premise the Presiding Speaker called for the stepping down of the Bill and that the Committee on Rules and Business should make copies of the Bill available for Honorable members to debate it on the next Legislative day. The Bill was then stepped down by the leave of the House.

MOTIONS

Need to Sensitize Nigerians on the Dangers of Scooping from Fallen Petroleum Laden Tankers:
Hon. Aliyu Mustapha Abdullahi:

The House:

Notes that accidents involving fuel tankers have become a recurring tragedy across the country, often resulting in catastrophic, massive loss of life, destruction of properties; and environmental hazards;

Also notes that on 18 January, 2025 in Suleja, Niger State, a fuel tanker overturned, and as locals rushed to scoop fuel, the tanker exploded, causing a massive fire outbreak which killed more than 100 people and left many injured, a stark reminder of the grave risk associated with such practices;

Further notes that in October 2024, in Majiya, Jigawa State another devastating incident occurred when a tanker transporting fuel lost control, leading to a spill, as locals gathered to scoop fuel, a subsequent explosion killed 209 people, injured 124, and caused untold sorrow to the affected community;

Aware that the volatile nature of petroleum products when in contact with open flames, static electricity, or even mobile devices is a potential cause of explosion, turning such accidents into ticking time bombs;

Concerned that the desperation and ignorance driving many Nigerians to engage in this dangerous activity are compounded by poor enforcement of safety measures, insufficient emergency response, and lack of public awareness campaigns;

Also concerned that if urgent steps are not taken to Sensitize Nigerians on the Dangers of Scooping Fuel from fallen tankers, similar incidents may continue to occur, causing more preventable loss of life and resources, thereby exposing government’s inability to ensure public safety;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Information and the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to launch a nationwide sensitization campaign, using both traditional and digital media to educate Nigerians on the dangers of scooping fuel from fallen tankers;

(ii) also urge the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the Nigerian Police Force to ensure accident scenes involving fuel tankers are immediately cordoned off to prevent public access and mitigate risks;

(iii) further urge the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) and other stakeholders to adopt advanced safety measures, conduct regular maintenance of fuel tankers, and train drivers on emergency response protocols;

(iv) mandate the Committees on Emergency and Disaster Preparedness, Land Transport, Petroleum Resources (Midstream) and Petroleum Resources (Downstream) to engage relevant stakeholders to enforce stricter penalties for tampering with fallen tankers and report within four (4)weeks for further legislative action;

(v) also mandate the Committees on Information, National Orientation, Ethics and Values, Emergency and Disaster Preparedness, Land Transport, Petroleum Resources (midstream), Petroleum Resources (Downstream) and Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance.

Motion stepped down by leave of the House.

Need to Complete the Construction of JAMB Office in Gbongan, Ayedaade Local Government Area and Construct a New JAMB Office at Apomu, Isokan Local Government Area, Osun State:
Hon. Lanre Omoleye Oladebo:

The House:

Notes that the JAMB office in Gbongan Ayedaade Local Government, Osun State has not been completed since 2021, the uncompleted status has greatly affected its accreditation by the JAMB;

Also notes that without the construction and accreditation of JAMB office in Gbongan, students in the area cannot participate in the Computer-Based Test;

Aware that the Federal Government has committed huge resources to the uncompleted 540 sitting capacity examination hall;

Worried that the 270 computer equipment supplied to Gbongan JAMB office has not been utilized due to non-completion of the office complex;

Also worried at the alarming increase of JAMB students in 2024 with Osun State students JAMB registration standing at 110,000 without a corresponding increase in JAMB CBT examination centers;

Cognizant of the need to establish a new JAMB Office in Apomu, Isokan Local Government, Osun State, specifically in Ayedaade/Irewole/Isokanokan Federal constituency;

Disturbed that the JAMB office in Gbongan, Ayedaade Local Government has no electricity, standby generator and solar power system to mitigate against NEPA failure during JAMB examinations,

Aware that the Gbonganngan office still needs additional 275 computer systems to complete the second phase of the uncompleted examinations hall with 540 sitting capacity;

Also aware that the Western Region of Nigeria has a total of 517,000 JAMB registration 2024, out of which Osun State has 110,000 candidates Osun State;

Further aware of the need to site JAMB office in Apomu, Isokan Local Government, Osun State to take care of students in Ikire, Apomu, Orile Owu towns and neighboring communities;

Cognizant that access to JAMB offices and Computer Based Test Centers is crucial for students to achieve academic breakthrough, as successful JAMB examination results are the only gateway to higher Institutions;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to consider the completion of the JAMB Office in Gbongan Ayedaade Local Government, Osun State and approve the opening of new JAMB offices in the State particularly in Apomu town, Isokan Local Government in the Ayedaade/Irewole/Isokan Federal Constituency of Osun State;

(ii) mandate the Committee on Basic Examination Bodies to ensure compliance and report back to the within four weeks.

Debate
Hon. Lanre Oladebo moved the motion on the need to complete the construction of JAMB office in Gbongan, Ayedaade Local Government Area and construct a new JAMB office at Apomu, Isokan Local Government Area, Osun state and it was seconded by Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Basic Education Examination Boards.

Menace of Gully Erosion in Nanka, Oko and Umunze Communities:
Hon. Chinwe Clara Nnabuife:

The House:

Notes the menace of gully erosion in Anambra State which has reached epic proportions in Nanka, Oko, and Umunze communities, resulting in significant environmental, socio-economic, and humanitarian dislocations and challenges;

Also notes that Nanka, Oko and Umunze communities have experienced significant gully erosion, with reports indicating hundreds of gully erosion sites across the communities, covering large areas of land in these communities;

Further notes that the menace of gully erosion in Nanka, Oko and Umunze communities has directly impacted a substantial portion of the population in these communities, particularly those residing near erosion-prone sites;

Concerned that the economic impact of gully erosion in Nanka, Oko and Umunze communities is quite substantial, with estimates suggesting billions of Naira in economic losses due to damage to infrastructure, loss of agricultural land, displacement of residents, and increased costs for erosion control measures and rehabilitation projects;

Also concerned that gully erosion in the affected communities has led to significant environmental degradation, including loss of biodiversity, loss of fertile soil leading to reduced agricultural productivity and economic hardship for farmers and rural households, with the attendant destruction of vegetation, increased risk of flooding, alteration of landscapes, and contamination of water sources due to sedimentation with the concomitant health hazards to the community;

Cognizant of the need to address the gully erosion problem in Nanka, Oko, and Umunze communities of Anambra State;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Environment to review and enhance existing erosion control measures in the South East especially in Nanka, Oko and Umunze communities and provide adequate funds to effectively monitored the implementation of the erosion control measures;

(ii) also urge the Federal Ministry of Environment to develop and implement programs for inclusion of sustainable land management practices, community engagement, and public awareness campaigns in erosion control strategies to promote long-term resilience and environmental sustainability;

(iii) mandate the Committee on Ecological Fund to liaise with the Federal Ministry of Environment to ensure compliance.

Motion stepped down by leave of the House.

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

A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Polytechnics Act, Cap. F17, Laws of the federation of Nigeria, 2004 and Establish Federal Polytechnic, Sabon Birini Sokoto State and for Related Matters (HB. 1815) (Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Committee of the Whole: 18/7/2024.

Synopsis of the report:
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere stated that the Bill seeks to amend the Principal Act to ensure the establishment of the institute for the good of Nigerians in Sabon Birini Sokoto state.

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

A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Medical Centres Act, 2022 to Establish Federal Medical Centre, Isa, Sokoto State and for Related Matters (HB. 1818) (Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) –Committee of the Whole: 10/10/2024.

Synopsis of the report:
Hon. Julius stated that the Bill also seeks to amend the Principal Act to ensure the establishment of the medical center for the benefit of Nigerians in Sokoto.

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

A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Polytechnics Act, Cap. F17, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and Establish Federal Polytechnic, Tombia, Rivers State and for Related Matters (HB.1977) (Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Committee of the Whole: 12/12/2024.

Synopsis of the report:
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere stated that the Bill seeks to amend the Principal Act to ensure the establishment of the well overdue Polytechnic to promote technical education for Nigerians seeking such in Tambia, Rivers state and beyond.

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

Committee on University Education:
Hon. Abubakar Hassan Fulata:
“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on University Education on a Bill for an Act to Establish Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Item Bende to make Comprehensive Provisions for its Due Management and Administration and for Related Matters (HB. 25) and approve recommendations therein” (Laid: 14/1/2025).

Synopsis of the report:
Hon. Abubakar Fulata stated that the Bill seeks to establish the Federal University for Health and Medical Sciences with the view to training adequate power to meet the needs for the services of such individuals to serve all Nigerians. He urged Honorable Members to support it.

Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-29

HOUSE IN PLENARY:

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

House Adjournment:
The House at 14:02 adjourned plenary to Thursday, February 6th, 2025 by 11:00 A.M following a motion for adjournment moved by the Leader of the House, Hon. Julius Ihonbvere and seconded by the Minority Leader, Hon. Kingsley Chinda.

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