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List Of High-Profile Bills Awaiting 10th National Assembly Approval
Since its inauguration in June 2023, the 10th National Assembly has introduced and enacted several bills.
EKO HOT BLOG reports that numerous significant and often contentious proposals remain pending, awaiting further legislative scrutiny and public hearings.
Below is a list of the major bills currently before the National Assembly:
1. Bill on a Six-Year Single Term for Presidents and Governors
One of the most prominent bills under consideration is the proposal to amend the 1999 Constitution to establish a single six-year term for the President, state governors, and local government chairmen. Introduced by Rep. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, with the backing of 50 other lawmakers, this bill seeks to modify Sections 7, 135, 137, 180, and 182 of the Constitution. Proponents argue that a single term would reduce the disruptive effects of frequent elections, while critics caution against the potential concentration of power in a single officeholder.
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2. Bills on the Parliamentary System
Three legislative proposals aim to transition Nigeria from its current presidential system to a parliamentary system of governance. Sponsored by Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda and 59 other representatives, these bills propose that the Prime Minister serve as the head of government, while the President would take on a ceremonial role. Proponents of this system argue that it could enhance accountability and governance efficiency. However, the proposals face significant challenges due to the entrenched presidential system familiar to most Nigerians.
3. Police Act Amendment Bill
The “Nigeria Police Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024” seeks to extend the tenure of police personnel to enhance their experience and improve operational efficiency. Introduced by Speaker Abbas Tajuddeen and Rep. Abubakar Makki Yalleman, the bill aims to professionalize the police force and address the nation’s complex security challenges by retaining seasoned officers. The bill has passed its first and second readings and is currently under further legislative consideration.
Bills 10th National Assembly
4. Ranches Commission Bill
The National Ranches Commission Establishment Bill, 2024, introduced by Senator Titus Tartenger Zam, proposes the creation of ranches for herders within their states of origin. The bill outlines strict regulations for herders, including potential penalties for non-compliance, and seeks to mitigate the ongoing conflicts between herders and farmers. The bill has passed its second reading but faces resistance from northern senators concerned about disrupting traditional nomadic practices.
5. NIMC Act Repeal Bill
This bill proposes to repeal the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act of 2017. Sponsored by Deputy Senate President Barau I. Jibrin, the bill aims to broaden the registration criteria to include all residents of Nigeria, not just citizens, and create a comprehensive national identity database. The bill passed its second reading in July 2024 and is awaiting a public hearing.
6. Bill Seeking Special Seats for Female Lawmakers
A bill seeking to allocate special seats for women in the National and State Houses of Assembly is also pending approval. Led by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu and 12 co-sponsors, the bill proposes one additional legislative seat per state and three special seats in each state house of assembly exclusively for female candidates. This bill, which aims to increase female representation in politics, has been forwarded to the Committee on Constitution Amendment for further review.
7. Bill on Diaspora Voting
The bill on diaspora voting, introduced by Speaker Abbas Tajuddeen and Rep. Sadiq Ango Abdullahi, is another crucial piece of legislation under consideration. This bill seeks to grant voting rights to Nigerian citizens residing abroad, allowing them to participate in elections organized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The bill has completed its second reading and has been referred to the Committee on Electoral Matters for further evaluation.
These major bills reflect the diverse legislative priorities of the 10th National Assembly, with each proposal addressing critical aspects of governance, security, and social equity in Nigeria. As lawmakers reconvene after their recess, the nation watches closely to see which of these bills will move forward to become law.
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