Speaker Abbas Pledges Focus on Electoral, Security, Economic Reforms

By Angel Ike

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, emphasised that electoral, security, and economic reforms will be the legislature’s priorities in the coming months as the House resumed plenary following its annual recess.

In his welcome address on Tuesday, Abbas highlighted the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Act as critical legislative tasks.

He noted that 87 constitutional amendment proposals, including devolution of powers and local government autonomy, await debate and voting. The House aims to complete these before December to facilitate early State Assembly concurrence.

Abbas also stressed the importance of finalising electoral reforms ahead of the 2027 elections. The proposed Electoral Act Amendment Bill targets reducing election-related violence, improving accessibility for persons with disabilities, and creating clearer dispute resolution timelines.

He emphasised the need for a new Electoral Act that minimizes contention, lowers costs via single-day voting, and fosters democratic party primaries.The Speaker called for support of the Reserved Seats Bill for women, framing it as a historic step toward gender inclusion under the HeForShe initiative.

Security reform remains a top concern, with Abbas urging legislative action on multi-level policing. He proposed devolving community policing recruitment and training to states under federal oversight to enhance responsiveness without sacrificing national standards.

Economic recovery and job creation were underscored as key legislative focuses. Abbas advocated speeding up implementation of the Start-up Act, vocational training hubs, renewable energy legislation, and power sector reforms to stimulate growth.

Abbas praised the 10th House as the most productive since 1999, citing 2,263 bills considered and 237 passed since June 2023, with 50 signed into law.

He credited constructive collaboration with the Executive for recent policy successes and legislative independence.

Despite ongoing challenges like high living costs, underemployment, and insecurity, Abbas expressed cautious optimism due to improving inflation rates, restored UAE visa services, and disrupted insurgent networks.

He acknowledged the House’s unity and maturity in managing differences, urging members to remain united and focused on delivering results for Nigerians