By George OZALLA
The House of Representatives NASS Open Week commenced on Tuesday with a mock sitting in the green chamber, marking the beginning of almost a week-long event aimed at promoting transparency, accessibility and accountability in governance. The event is being organized with the support of Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC), United Nations Development Program (UNDP), UK International Development, and the National Assembly Library Trust Fund (NALTF), aims to foster an open parliament and encourage citizen engagement in the legislative process.
Speaker Dr. Tajudeen Abbas who is the Chief Host emphasized the importance of public engagement and participation in lawmaking, highlighting the House’s efforts to ensure citizens’ voices are heard. “The Open Week provides a unique opportunity for citizens to experience the legislative process firsthand and offer input on issues affecting the nation,” he said, adding that this engagement would help shape the country’s future.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, however used the occasion to praise the leadership of the House of Representatives for the laudable initiative and expressed hope that the Senate will soon adopt same practice, Akpabio, warned Nigerians against placing their hopes in political coalitions, describing such arrangements as “deceptive” and “unrealistic” within Nigeria’s current electoral structure. “Nigerians, don’t be deceived. Coalition politics is unrealistic,” he said, arguing that the law recognizes only political parties, not individuals or informal coalitions, as legitimate vehicles for contesting elections.
Former Speakers Rt Hon Yakubu Dogara and Femi Gbajabiamila also spoke at the event, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in governance. Senator Shehu Sani praised President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to focusing on the country’s future despite facing unpopularity due to economic reforms. Sani noted that Tinubu’s leadership demonstrates a willingness to make tough decisions for the nation’s long-term benefit.
Still on the Open Week activities, the National Nutrition Conference, organized by the House Committee on Nutrition and Food Security, brought together experts and stakeholders to discuss critical issues related to nutrition and health. Participants shared knowledge, experiences, and best practices in promoting nutrition and addressing malnutrition in Nigeria. Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chair of the National Council on Nutrition, was represented at the summit, which targeted to generate actionable solutions to one of the country’s most pressing human development challenges.
The Open Week will further feature various activities, including panel sessions on youth participation and women’s political representation, critical debates on economic reform, and the role of traditional institutions. The event provides a platform for lawmakers, public officials, and citizens to engage in meaningful discussions and reflect on progress made and challenges ahead in promoting transparency and accountability in governance. The Open Week will culminate in a closing dinner at the National Assembly Arcade on Thursday.
