National Assembly | Federal Republic of Nigeria

Plenary proceedings of the House of Representatives for Wednesday, March 20th, 2024.

The Speaker of the House Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen presiding.

After leading the opening prayer and recitation of the national pledge, the Speaker approved the votes and proceedings of Tuesday, March 19th, 2024.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS:

COMMUNICATION FROM THE PRESIDENT:

Transmission of Appropriation Act Amendment Bill 2024 which seeks to amend the timeframe for the implementation of the contents and the Supplementary Amendment Bill which also seeks to extend the timeframe for implementation of the contents therein. President Bola Tinubu further expressed confidence in the partnership of the House in anticipation of the approval of the requests for the good governance for Nigerians.

Hon. Patrick Umoh announced that Chairmen of Committees of the House are required to submit sessional reports of the Committees, on the performances of the budget of the MDAs they oversight to ensure their compliance with the provisions of the Legislative Agenda of the 10th House of Representatives. This he stated should be done fortnightly at Room 13, first floor, White House.

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PETITIONS:

Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against the Nigeria Police on his alleged unlawful dismissal and intimidation. He prayed for his reinstatement and the payment of his due salaries to date.

A petition was laid on the request for intervention against the government of the People’s Republic of China and the Chinese Construction Engineering Company on the alleged unlawful deportation of 8 Nigerian students studying on scholarship given by the Ministry of Transport in China. He craved for justice as the students were deported without notice of what they are supposed to have done wrong.

Hon. Mohammed Biao laid a petition on behalf of a complainant on alleged administrative defraction, abandonment and human rights violation against the Republic of China. They request for repatriation.

Hon. Jesse Onuakalusi laid a petition on behalf of a complainant on alleged land trespass of his property by the Federal Ministry of Works.

Hon. Uchenna Okonkwo laid a petition on behalf of a group: The Importers of Consumer Goods, Lagos on the need for intervention from the Federal Government to look into the high cost of importing goods and the activities at the ports that lead to high pricing of commodities which the consumers end up bearing the brunt for.

Hon. Ikenga Chinyere laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against a UK company that allegedly has no requisite qualification of engineering operations in Nigeria, but has been awarded the contract to construct the Portharcourt-Enugu-Aba- Calabar- Abuja rail line by the Ministry of Transportation.

Hon. Terseer Ugbor laid a petition on behalf of a complainant whose father allegedly died having worked for a long time with the National Animal Research Institute and she has not been able to access his benefits. She craved the intervention of the House in order for her to get justice.

Hon. Moses laid a petition on behalf of complainant who is a father to a deceased who allegedly died as a result of negligence in the Eko Electricity Distribution Company. The complainant craved the intervention of the House in order to get justice.

Hon. Usman laid a petition on behalf of complainant against the Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Shika on the alleged infraction on the rights of some individuals.

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MATTERS OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE:

Hon. Paschal Abodike moved a motion on the urgent need for the Federal Government through the National High Commission on Refugees, Migrants and Displaced Persons and other relevant agencies to come to the aid of the plight being suffered by residents of Ihiala community in Anambra state due to attacks by bandits and it was seconded by Hon. George Ozodinobi.

Hon. Abodike in leading the debate stated that the attacks of residents of the region have become a reoccurring incidence. The community is a border community between Anambra and Imo state and a strong agrarian community. He expressed concern that due to the incessant attacks, farmers are afraid to go to the farms which will contribute to food scarcity and insecurity. Hon. Abodike called on the relevant government agencies to provide succor to the affected individuals. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committees on National High Commission on Refugees, Migrants and Dispalced Persons, National Emergency Management Agency, as well as that on Agricultural Production.

Hon. James Barka moved a motion on the need to address the insecurity in communities in Hong, Adamawa state and it was seconded by Hon. Ginger Onwusibe. Hon. Barka in leading the debate bemoaned the recurring nature of the attacks by the bandits in the community. He lamented the inability of government to take decisive actions on the issue. He further called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide succor to the victims and that the House Committee on NEMA as well as that on Northeast Development Commission to ensure compliance. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on National Emergency Management Agency as well as that on Northeast Development Commission.

Hon. Isa Mohammed moved a motion on the urgent need for government to address the breakdown of security in Ankara/ Talata Mafara communities in Zamfara state due to the incessant attacks of bandits and it was seconded by Hon. Mohammed Kazaure. Hon. Isa Mohammed in leading the debate stated that life in the affected communities has become unbearable due to these attacks and the people have been living in fear. He stated that this has affected the socioeconomic livelihood of those in the communities.

He called on the federal government to ensure the security agencies are proactive and ensure peace is restored to the region. He called on the Chief of Army Staff to launch a special operation to ensure the tackling of the bandits. He further called on the Chief of Air Staff to ensure continuous air surveillance within the region to sniff out all bandits from hidden hideouts and that the Department of Security Intelligence to to ensure increased coordination of security intelligence within agencies to protect the citizens from attacks. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Defense, Air-force, Police as well as that on National Intelligence.

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PRESENTATION OF BILLS:

1. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2024 (HB.1258) (Hon. Kareem Tajudeen Abisodun) – First Reading.

2. Chartered Institute of Health Care Management of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (HB. 1260) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.

3. Chartered Institute of Human Capital Development of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1261) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.

4. Chartered Institute of Export and Commodity Brokers of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1262) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.

5. International Trade Commission of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1263) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.

6. Nigeria Industrial Revolution Plan Bill, 2024 (HB.1264) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.

7. Environmental Health (Control) Bill, 2024(HB.1265) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu) – First Reading.

8. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2024 (HB.1272) (Hon. Ali Isa JC) – First Reading.

9. Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1273) (Hon. Ali Isa JC) – First Reading.

10. North East Development Commission Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024(HB.1274) (Hon. Ali Isa JC) – First Reading.

11. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2024 (HB.1275) (Hon. Ali Isa JC) – First Reading.

12. Tertiary Education Tax Fund Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1276) (Hon. Ali Isa JC) – First Reading.

13. Orthopaedic Hospital Management Board Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024(HB.1277) (Hon. Ali Isa JC) – First Reading.

14. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2024 (HB.1278) (Hon. Ali Isa JC) – First Reading.

15. National Centre for Agricultural Mechanization Act (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1279) (Hon. Ali Isa JC) – First Reading.

16. Constituencies and Senatorial Districts Development Fund Bill, 2024 (HB.1280) (Hon. Ali Isa JC) – First Reading.

17. Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1283) (Hon. Bello Ambarura) – First Reading.

18. National Health Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1284) (Hon. Fuad Kayode Laguda) – First Reading.

19. Federal Universities of Agriculture Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB. 1270) (Hon. Akeem Adeniyi Adeyemi) – First Reading.

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PRESENTATION OF REPORTS:

1. Committee on Student Loan, Scholarships and Higher Education Financing.

Hon. Adegboyega Nasir Isiaka:

"That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Student Loan, Scholarships and Higher Education Financing on a Bill for an Act to Repeal the Student Loans (Access to Higher Education) Act 2023 and Enact the Student Loans (Access to Higher Education) Bill, 2024 to Establish the Nigerian Education Loan Fund as a body Corporate to Receive, Manage and invest Funds to provide Loans to Nigerians for Higher Education, Vocational Training and Skills Acquisition, and for Related Matters (HB. 1266)" (Referred: 14/3/2024).

The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Adegboyega Isiaka.

2. Committee on Shipping Services and Related Matters:

Hon. Abdussamad Dasuki:

“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Shipping Services and Related Matters to Authorise the issue from the Nigerian Shippers’ Council Statutory Revenue Fund the total sum of (N115,145,142,457.29) One hundred and fifteen billion, one hundred and forty–five million, one hundred and forty–two thousand, four hundred and fifty–seven Naira, twenty–nine Kobo only, (N57,572,571,228.65) Fifty–seven billion, five hundred and seventy–two million, five hundred and seventy–one thousand, two hundred and twenty–eight Naira, sixty–five Kobo only, being fifty percent contribution to Consolidated Revenue Fund, (N8,393,391,129.94) Eight billion, three hundred, and ninety–three million, three hundred and ninety–one thousand, one hundred and twenty–nine Naira, ninety–four Kobo, only is for Personnel Costs and the sum of (N31,799,890,685.71) Thirty–one billion, seven hundred and ninety–nine million, eight hundred and ninety thousand, six hundred and eighty–five Naira, seventy one Kobo, only is for Overhead Costs, while the balance of (N17,315,948,697.10) Seventeen billion, three hundred and fifteen million, nine hundred and forty–eight thousand, six hundred and ninety–seven Naira, ten Kobo, only is for Capital Projects, for the service of the Nigeria Shippers’ Council, for the Financial Year Ending 31, December, 2024.”

The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Abdussamad Dasuki and seconded by Hon. Alhasan Rurum.

Committee on Legislative Library Research and Documentation:

Hon. Yusuf Shittu Galambi:

“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Legislative Library, Research and Documentation on a Bill for an Act to Amend the National Assembly Library Trust Fund Act, No. 11 of 2022, change the Name of the National Assembly Library Trust Fund to National Assembly Library and Resource Centre, eliminate the ambiguity in the Chairmanship position of the Governing Council, Streamline the functions and duties of the Governing Council and the Office of the Director – General and to Provide for Application of the Funds of the National Assembly Library Resource Centre to set up the Assembly Museum and for Related Matters (HB.1259) (Referred: 19/3/2024).

The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Yusuf Galambi and seconded by Hon. Salisu.

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ORDERS OF THE DAY:

BILLS:

1. A Bill for an Act to Establish the National Research and Innovation Council and National Research and Innovation Fund to set National priorities on Research, Innovation and Development and for Related Matters (HB.697) – Third Reading.

Debate:

Hon. Bello Kumo 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.

2. 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. Bello Kumo 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.

3. A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Colleges of Education Act, Cap. F8, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to Establish Federal College of Education, Illo, Kebbi State and for Related Matters (HB. 1045) – Third Reading.

Debate:

Hon. Bello Kumo 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.

4. A Bill for an Act to prescribe the Salaries, Allowances and Fringe Benefits of Judicial Office Holders in Nigeria and for Related Matters (HB. 1282) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere) – Second Reading.

Debate:

Hon. Bello Kumo moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Ali Isa. Hon. Kumo in leading the debate stated that the Bill seeks to assure the privileges of judicial office holders is guaranteed and so the officials cannot be enticed by monetary gifts to upturn justice. He called on Members to support it. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the Committee of the Whole.

5. A Bill for an Act to Amend the Compulsory Free Universal Basic Education Act Cap. C52, laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and for Related Matters (HB.594) (Hon. Muktar Shagaya) – Second Reading.

Debate:

Hon. Muktar Shagaya moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Daniel Asama. Hon. Shagaya in leading the debate stressed the need for the full implementation of the provisions of the Act. He stated that the extant laws used to enact the Act though laudable, has not fully achieved the desired aim as can be seen in the growing number of illiteracy as well as out of school children on the streets of Nigeria. Hon. Shagaya stated that the Bill seeks to cure this through ensuring training of teachers, making basic education more appealing and to ensure for proper funding for education in each national budget. He stated that the amendments the Bills proposes is in line with international best practices and policies to ensure Nigerian students are well equipped educationally to compete with all global citizens. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Basic Education and Services.

6. A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Medical Centres Act to Provide for Establishment of Federal Medical Centre, Kafanchan, Kaduna State and for Related Matters (HB. 507) (Hon. Amos Magaji and three others) – Second Reading.

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

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MOTIONS:

7. Need to Enhance Security Operation against Banditry and Incessant Kidnapping and Killing in Burdugau and Environs Malumfashi/Kafur Federal Contituency:

Hon. Muhammad Aminu Ibrahim:

The House:

Notes the incessant banditry activities in Burdugau, Gidan Mai Rabo, Santar Dan Gyasa, Agangaro, Ung. Gambo and Yaba villages of Malumfashi/Kafur Federal Constituency of Katsina State have led to increased killings, displacement of indigenes, and kidnappings in Burdgau and neighboring communities;

Concerned that the continuous bandit attacks have reduced farming activities, leading to food scarcity, hunger, famine, starvation and fear of death;

Worried that as the farming season approaches, kidnapping of farmers, market men and women, may increase on a regular pattern due to little or no presence of the Nigerian security agencies;

Cognizant that rigid security measures needed to be taken to safeguard the lives and properties of innocent citizens;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Chief of Army Staff to carry out a special operation in the Malumfashi/Kafur Federal Constituency of Katsina State to eradicate all forms of banditry in the area;

(ii) also urge the Inspector General of Police (1GP) and the National Security Adviser (NSA) to expedite the presence of Security Personnel in Malumfashi/Kafur Federal Constituency to increase surveillance;

(iii) mandate the Committees on Army and Police Affairs to ensure compliance.

Debate:

Hon. Muhammad Ibrahim moved the motion on the need to enhance security operation against banditry and incessant kidnapping and killing in Burdugau and Environs Malumfashi/Kafur federal constituency and it was seconded by Hon. Aliyu Daura. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committees on Army as well as that on Police Affairs.

8. Erosion Raving some Parts of Kila Town and Communities in Gwaram Local Government Area in Jigawa State:

Hon. Yusuf Shitu Galambi:

The House:

Notes that the people of Kila town and other Communities of Gwaram Local Government are predominantly farmers, and suppliers of agricultural produce to major food markets in Nigeria;

Aware that erosion in Gwaram Local Government Area has constituted threats to lives, roads, farms, and other properties, as several properties running into billions have been destroyed, causing displacement of families from their homes, and hardship, which results to loss of economic activities;

Concerned that Gwaram Local Government Area experienced erosion threats, destroying billions of properties, displacing families, and causing hardship, leading to economic loss;

Disturbed that the erosion-induced hardship in this Local Government has hampered poverty alleviation, wealth creation, and productivity, thus, worsening food shortages and resulting in a low standard of living;

Worried that the erosion has severely contaminated sources of drinking water in affected communities, and if not addressed urgently, the devastating effects of the erosion could worsen next year's raining season;

Cognizant of the need for urgent intervention by the appropriate authority to rehabilitate the affected areas and put precautionary measures to avoid reoccurrence;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Environment and the Ecological fund office to urgently carry out an environmental assessment and rehabilitate the affected areas; and

(ii) mandate the Committee on Legislative Compliance to ensure Compliance.

Debate :

Hon. Yusuf Galambi moved the motion on erosion ravaging some parts of Kila town and communities in Gwaram local government area in Jigawa state and it was seconded by Hon. Sani Lawal. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committees on Environment, Ecological Fund as well as that on Legislative Compliance.

9. Devastating Flood and Erosion in Makoko and Otumara Communities in Lagos Mainland:

Hon. Moshood Olarewaju Oshun:

The House:

Notes that the impacts of flooding on socioeconomic outcomes and community development have become perturbing, especially as low-income areas and overcrowded communities are more vulnerable to the rapidly escalating phenomenon;

Also notes that Otumara Ilaje and Makoko are riverine communities in Lagos Mainland with an estimated population of one million, two hundred and fifty thousand people, respectively, which have immense tourist potentials that can be harnessed through thoughtful and participatory planning;

Concerned that the two communities have, for many years, been bedeviled by ravaging floods and the attendant coastal erosions, for each time there is a heavy rainfall, the communities are flooded for days, submerging houses, destroying businesses, drowning helpless residents and displacing families;

Also concerned that the 2024 rainy season is fast approaching and if the flooding in the communities are not urgently mitigated, it will result in devastating consequences when the rains start;

Worried that the incessant flooding in the communities has exacerbated their susceptibility to waterborne diseases like malaria, cholera, typhoid, yellow fever, diarrhea, leptospirosis and hepatitis A, among others;

Also worried that the gully erosions caused by the floods have rendered access roads in the communities impassable, causing untold hardship for the residents as they must travel long distances to access medical care and many other essential services;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the National Emergency Management Agency to provide relief materials and first aid care to the victims of flooding in Makoko and Otumara Communities in Lagos Mainland Federal Constituency of Lagos State;

(ii) also urge the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to immediately commence rehabilitation of the damaged roads in Makoko and Otumara;

(iii) further urge the Ecological Project Office to provide funds for the provision of sustainable flood management systems to mitigate incessant flooding in Lagos Mainland;

(iv) mandate the Committees on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) and Ecological Fund to ensure implementation.

Debate:

Hon. Moshood Oshun moved the motion on devastating flood and erosion in Makoko and Otumara communities in Lagos Mainland and it was seconded by Hon. Ogunbanwo Olufemi. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Federal Road Maintenance Agency as well as that on Ecological Fund.

10. Need to stem the tide of Proliferation of Orphanage Home in Nigeria:

Hon. Emerengwa Boniface Sunday:

The House:

Notes that by the Provisions of Sections 14(2)(b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) the primary duty of Government is to provide security and welfare to the people;

Also notes that the primary aim for establishment of Orphanage homes is to cater for the orphans and ensure their safety and wellbeing in Nigeria;

Aware that of the disturbing increase in the establishment of orphanage homes in Nigeria;

Also aware that the increase in the number of orphans in Nigeria are mainly due to the insecurity in nearly all parts of Nigeria such as kidnapping, fulani herdsmen attack;

Observes that most proprietors of orphanage home often prioritize profit over their core mandate, turning orphanage into baby factories where teenage girls are accommodated to produce babies which are sold and used for rituals and other heinous activities;

Worried that a good number of orphanage homes are being used for human trafficking whereby innocent girls are being recruited to embark on illegal migration to foreign countries where they eventually end up either being abused, prostitutes or house maids;

Cognizant of the urgent demand by government at all levels to formulate stringent conditions for the establishment of orphanage in the country to prevent and curb the proliferation of orphanage homes;

Convinced of the urgent need to clamp all unregistered and or criminally motivated orphanage homes in the country in fulfilment of government primary duty of security and welfare of her citizens;

Resolves to:

(i) condemn the abuse and proliferation of Orphanage homes in Nigeria;

(ii) urge the Federal Ministry of Health and Social welfare to interface with all thirty – six (36) States and the FCT for immediate and full compliance of the mandate of orphanage homes across the country; and

(iii) mandate the Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development to liaise with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare both to ensure standardization of orphanage homes and close those under-resourced.

Debate:

Hon. Emerengwa Sunday moved the motion on the need to stem the tide of proliferation of orphanage homes in Nigeria and it was seconded by Hon. Agbedi Frederick. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development.

11. Construction of Oju–Uwoku–Iboko–Abakaliki Federal Road, Oju-Ainu–Idelle–Enugu and Rehabilitation of Loko–Oju Federal Roads, Benue State:

Hon. David Agada Ogewu Hon. Uguru Emmanuel Hon. Chinedu Ogah:

The House:

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

Also notes that the National Assembly is saddled with the task of making laws for the peace, order, and good governance of the Federation or any part thereof (including Oju/Obi Federal Constituency) as enshrined in Section 4(2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), and that the infrastructural and economic development of the country and its component parts constitutes one of the fundamental objectives of the Federal Government as enshrined in the Constitution;

Aware that a good road network is a panacea for economic development in any country and the immediate rehabilitation of Loko–Oju under the construction of Loko–Otukpo–Oju federal road, Oju–Uwoku–lboko (Izzi Local Government Area, Ebonyi State) Abakalikì detour to Oju–Ainu–ldelle–Enugu Federal roads are very vital for the movement of goods and services from the north to the south-east and south-west, the absence of a roadway has confined and isolated the people of lgede from other parts of the country;

Also aware that the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) abandoned the Loko–Oju federal road which was previously captured in the 2023 budget thereby increasing kidnapping activities on Otukpo and Oju roads, thus affecting the development of communities connecting the third major tribe, Igede speaking Communities in Benue State;

Observes that the Oju-Uwoku and Izzi Local Government Areas in Benue and Ebonyi States, with Abakaliki detour to Oju–Ainu–ldelle-Enugu road, is crucial for socio-economic development in the North–Central, South–South, and South–East regions;

Acknowledges that if the roads are constructed, it will alleviate the hardship of the Igede people open up arable land in Benue State especially in the Uwoku community of Benue State and Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State and enhance the economic value of Benue, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Cross-River States;

Cognizant that the Rehabilitation of Oju – Uwoku – Iboko – Abakaliki Federal Road, Oju - Ainu – Idelle – Enugu and Completion of Loko – Oju Federal Roads, Benue State will alleviate Igede people's hardships, open arable land and enhance the economic value of Benue States;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Works, the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) and the Ecological Fund Office to embark on the immediate construction and rehabilitation of the roads; and

(ii) mandate the Committee on Works and Federal Roads Maintenance Agency to investigate the abandonment of the Loko-Oju and Oweto-Otukpo-roads by the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), include the construction and rehabilitation of the roads in the 2024 Supplementary Appropriations or 2025 budget estimates and ensure compliance.

Debate:

Hon. David Ogewu moved the motion on the construction of Oju–Uwoku–Iboko–Abakaliki federal road, Oju-Ainu–Idelle–Enugu and rehabilitation of Loko–Oju federal roads, Benue state and it was seconded by Hon. Amarachi Amadi. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Works as well as that on Federal Road Maintenance Agency.

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SUPPLEMENTARY ORDER PAPER:

A Bill for an Act to Amend the Appropriations Act, 2023 to Extend the Implementation year from 31 March 2024 to 30 June, 2024 and for Related Matters (HB. 1285) (Leader) – Second Reading.

Debate:

Hon. Bello Ambarura moved that the House suspend its relevant rules to enable it take the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Murphy Osaro.

Hon. Bello Kumo moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Aliyu Madaki. Hon. Kumo in leading the debate stated that the Bill seeks to ensure that public funds are not misappropriated and are spent within the stipulated timeframe. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to committee of Supply.

A Bill for an Act to Amend the Supplementary Appropriations Act, 2023 to Extend the Implementation year from 31 March 2024 to 30 June, 2024 and for Related Matters (HB. 1286) (Leader) – Second Reading.

Debate:

Hon. Bello Ambarura moved that the House suspend its relevant rules to enable it take the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Awaji Dagomie Abiante.

Hon. Bello Kumo in leading the debate stated that the supplementary budget was laid late and the timeframe would not allow for full implementation hence the need for its extension for the good governance of Nigeria. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Supply.

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CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS (HOUSE IN THE COMMITTEE OF SUPPLY) Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen Chaired:

Committee on Shipping Services:

Hon. Abdussamad Dasuki:

“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on Shipping Services to Authorise the issue from the Nigerian Shippers’ Council Statutory Revenue Fund the total sum of (N115,145,142,457.29) One hundred and fifteen billion, one hundred and forty–five million, one hundred and forty–two thousand, four hundred and fifty–seven Naira, twenty–nine Kobo only, (N57,572,571,228.65) Fifty seven billion, five hundred and seventy–two million, five hundred and seventy–one thousand, two hundred and twenty–eight Naira, sixty–five Kobo only, being fifty percent contribution to Consolidated Revenue Fund, (N8,393,391,129.94) Eight billion, three hundred, and ninety–three million, three hundred and ninety–one thousand, one hundred and twenty–nine Naira, ninety–four Kobo, only is for Personnel Costs and the sum of (N31,799,890,685.71) Thirty one billion, seven hundred and ninety–nine million, eight hundred and ninety thousand, six hundred and eighty–five Naira, seventy–one Kobo, only is for Overhead Costs, while the balance of (N17,315,948,697.10) Seventeen billion, three hundred and fifteen million, nine hundred and forty–eight thousand, six hundred and ninety–seven Naira, ten Kobo, only is for Capital Projects; for the service of the Nigeria Shippers’ Council, for the Financial year ending 31, December, 2024” and approve the recommendations therein” (Laid: 20/3/2024) – Committee of Supply.

Approve the total sum of (N115,145,142,457.29) One hundred and fifteen billion, one hundred and forty-five million, one hundred and forty-two thousand, four hundred and fifty-seven Naira, twenty-nine Kobo only as Expenditure for the Nigerian Shippers’ Council Statutory Revenue Fund Financial year ending 31, December, 2024.

Summary of voting:

Recommendation voted on and adopted: 1

A Bill for an Act to Amend the Appropriations Act, 2023 to Extend the Implementation year from 31 March 2024 to 30 June, 2024 and for Related Matters (HB. 1285) (Leader) – Committee of Supply: 20/3/2024.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Bello Kumo stated that the report is as a result of of the necessity to ensure the process of the implementation of the Appropriation Act is done in the right manner and within the duly approved time frame. He urged Honorable Members to approve it.

Summary of voting:

Clauses voted on and approved: 1-3.

A Bill for an Act to Amend the Supplementary Appropriations Act, 2023 to Extend the Implementation year from 31 March 2024 to 30 June, 2024 and for Related Matters (HB. 1186) (Leader) – Committee of Supply: 20/3/2024.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Bello Kumo stated that the supplementary Bill is similar to the one just passed. The Bill came in at the end of 2023 and the need to ensure food security and other pressing national issues are attended to necessitated it. He stated that it is expedient for Honorable members to support it.

Summary of voting:

Clauses voted on and approved: 1-3

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HOUSE IN PLENARY:

The House reverted to plenary and adopted the report of the committee of Supply following a motion by Hon. Bello Kumo and seconded by Hon. Aliyu Madaki.

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CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS (HOUSE IN THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE) Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen Chaired:

17. A Bill for an Act to prescribe the Salaries, Allowances and Fringe Benefits of Judicial Office Holders in Nigeria and for Related Matters (HB. 1282) – Committee of the Whole: 20/3/2024.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Bello Kumo stated that the Bill seeks to ensure financial renumeration for the Judiciary to ensure the officials cannot be enticed financially to manipulate justice delivery.

Hon. Wole Oke praised the spirit of the Bill as the last time the wages of judicial officers was reviewed was 2007 which shows it is well overdue to be reviewed.

Summary of voting:

Clauses voted on and approved: 1-9 third reading.

A Bill for an Act to Repeal the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers Act, Cap. C9, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and Enact the Chartered Institute of Securities and Investments Bill, 2024 to set Standards of Knowledge, Ethical Conduct and Practice, Train, Certify, discipline its Members, Promote and Advance the Practice of Securities and Investments Profession and for Related Matters (HB. 416) – Committee of the Whole: 27/7/2023.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Bello Kumo stated that the Bill seeks to ensure the standardization and maintenance of ethics in the stockbroking sector.

Summary of voting:

Clauses voted on and approved: 1-23.

A Bill for an Act to Establish Chartered Nigerian Institute for Industrial Security and for Related Matters (HB. 505) – Committee of the Whole: 29/2/2024.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Bello Kumo stated that the Bill seeks to provide the Institute with the capacity of training and retraining of members to be at per with their international counterparts. He urged Members to support it.

Summary of voting:

Clauses voted on and approved: 1-22.

A Bill for an Act to Establish Traditional Complementary and Alternative Medicine Council of Nigeria and for Related Matters (HB. 473) (Leader) – Committee of the Whole:10/10/2023.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Bello Kumo stated that the Bill seeks the establishment of the proposed council for the regulation of alternative medicine practice in Nigeria to make it highly efficient as is seen in climes such as China, Egypt and Turkey. He urged Honorable members to support it as a viable alternative to modern medicine.

Summary of voting:

Clauses voted on and approved: 1-40.

Committee on Student Loans, Scholarships and Higher Education Financing:

Hon. Isiaka Nasiru Adegboyega:

“That the House do consider the Report on a Bill for an Act to Repeal the Student Loans (Access to Higher Education) Act, 2023 and Enact the Student Loans (Access to Higher Education) Bill, 2004 to Establish the Nigerian Education Loan Fund as a Body Corporate to Receive, Manage and Invest Funds to Provide Loans to Nigerians for Higher Education, Vocational Training and Skills Acquisition and for Related Matters (HB.1266) and approve the recommendations therein” Laid: 14/3/2024.

Summary of voting:

Clauses voted on and approved: 1-38.

Committee on Legislative Library Research and Documentation:

Hon. Yusuf Shittu Galambi:

“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on Legislative Library, Research and Documentation on a Bill for an Act to Amend the National Assembly Library Trust Fund Act, No. 11 of 2022, change the Name of the National Assembly Library Trust Fund to National Assembly Library and Resource Centre, eliminate the ambiguity in the Chairmanship position of the Governing Council, Streamline the functions and duties of the Governing Council and the Office of the Director – General and to Provide for Application of the Funds of the National Assembly Library Resource Centre to set up the Assembly Museum and for Related Matters (HB.1259) and approve recommendations therein” (Laid: 20/3/2024).

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Bello Kumo called on Honorable members to support the motion for the approval of the report.

Summary of voting:

Clauses voted on and approved: 1-25

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HOUSE IN PLENARY:

The House reverted to plenary and adopted the report of the committee of the Whole following a motion by Hon. Bello Kumo and seconded by Hon. Aliyu Madaki.

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Hon. Bello Kumo moved for the House to suspend its relevant rules to enable it take the third reading of the Bills and it was seconded by Hon. Aliyu Madaki.

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A Bill for an Act to Amend the Appropriations Act, 2023 to Extend the Implementation year from 31 March 2024 to 30 June, 2024 and for Related Matters (HB. 1285)– Third Reading.

Debate: