Honorable Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, has emphasized the crucial importance of the media in fostering public understanding of the legislative branch of government. He expressed this perspective during a capacity-building workshop organized for members of the House of Representatives Press Corps in Zaria.
The workshop, titled “Understanding the Legislative Agenda of the House: The Media Perspective,” aimed to enhance journalists’ insights into the legislative agenda and facilitate improved collaboration between the media and the legislature. This initiative was coordinated by the Office of the Speaker in conjunction with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Speaker Abbas praised parliamentary journalists for their dedication, professionalism, and adherence to ethical standards in journalism. He acknowledged their vital role in informing the Nigerian public about legislative activities and their impacts on society.
He asserted that the partnership between the legislature and the media is essential for achieving the key goal of promoting active citizen engagement. Abbas noted that the media plays a transformative role in governance by educating and empowering citizens to participate actively in the democratic process and hold their leaders accountable.
The Speaker outlined the 10th House’s Legislative Agenda, which serves as a comprehensive and ambitious framework designed to tackle the nation’s most pressing challenges. This agenda prioritizes economic growth, national security, healthcare access, educational reform, and good governance.
Reflecting on the achievements since the 10th House was inaugurated on June 13, 2023, Abbas highlighted significant milestones, including the passage of 89 bills in critical areas of focus.
Among the notable legislation enacted are the Electric Power Sector Reform (Amendment) Bill, 2023; the Federal Audit Service Bill, 2023; and the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons Bill, 2023. Other important bills include the National Assembly Library Trust Fund Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the Student Loans (Access to Higher Education) Act, 2024.
The Speaker emphasized the importance of accurate reporting in fostering public trust. He urged journalists to uphold the highest standards of accuracy and responsibility in their reporting, emphasizing that misrepresentation of bills as enacted laws can mislead the public and undermine confidence in the legislature’s efforts.
