The House of Representatives has pledged to prioritize the swift passage of the 2025 Appropriation Bill, the Whistleblower Protection Bill, and other initiatives aimed at enhancing good governance and national security in Nigeria.

In a statement issued on Monday by Akin Rotimi, Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, the legislative body’s key goals for the second year of the 10th Assembly were clearly outlined.

As the 2024 fiscal year draws to a close, Rotimi underscored the House’s eagerness for the timely submission of the 2025 Appropriation Bill by the Executive. This is vital for enabling thorough scrutiny and promoting public engagement through Town Hall meetings—a process that was successfully implemented during the 2024 budget review. He expressed, “The House is firmly committed to maintaining the January to December budget cycle and looks forward to the Executive’s cooperation.”

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On the subject of the ongoing Constitution Review, Rotimi emphasized its importance for democracy and the shared aspiration for a just society. The House reaffirmed its goal to complete the Sixth Alteration to the 1999 Constitution by December 2025. The House Committee on Constitution Review (HCCR), led by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, is intensifying efforts to tackle pressing issues and ensure that the nation’s laws meet public needs. To date, approximately 305 public memoranda and 150 Constitution Alteration Bills have been submitted.

In terms of electoral reform, the 10th House is set to prioritize amendments to the Electoral Act 2022 to address existing gaps, aligning with the legislative agenda’s Article 6.7 on Law Reform. Additionally, the House is expecting bills to ensure local government autonomy in accordance with the Supreme Court’s landmark ruling from July 2024.

Regarding the Whistleblower Protection Bill, Rotimi indicated that the House anticipates an executive bill following recent policy announcements by Finance Minister Wale Edun. This aligns with the House’s 8-Point Legislative Agenda aimed at bolstering governance and security.

In closing, Rotimi noted that during its first session, the House considered 679 motions, passed 89 bills, and received 306 petitions from concerned citizens, demonstrating its commitment to addressing the needs of the Nigerian populace.