House extends recess, to resume January 30

The House of Representatives has announced an extension of its ongoing recess, with the resumption of members now slated for Tuesday, January 30.

The National Assembly proceeded on break on December 30, 2023, shortly after passing the 2024 Appropriation Bill and announced January 23, 2024, as the resumption date.

However, in a statement issued on Sunday by House spokesman, Akin Rotimi, the lawmakers have additional week to resume following an official communication from the Clerk of the House, Yahaya Danzaria.

“I am directed to inform members that the resumption date for both Senate and House of Representatives has been shifted upwards from Tuesday, January 23, 2024 (earlier announced) to Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at 11:00 am prompt. All inconveniences are regretted,” the communication read.

Prior to its recess, the House had since its inauguration in June 2023, considered a wide range of issues, including peace and security, social welfare, healthcare, education, infrastructure development, economic growth, and more. With the instrumentality of robust debates, bipartisan collaboration, and sheer dedication to its constitutional responsibilities, the House passed crucial bills and adopted key resolutions that will shape the trajectory of the country in years to come.

At a special session held on December 30 for final consideration of the Budget, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen lauded the dedication, unity of purpose, and willingness of his colleagues to engage in constructive debates instrumental to the legislative outputs recorded since the inauguration of the House.

“I extend my deepest appreciation to all of you and applaud your exemplary conduct, dedication and devotion to upholding the highest standards of ethics and professionalism. Of note is the patriotism you all have demonstrated, making astonishing sacrifices to work even on weekends and during public holidays,” the Speaker had remarked.

The Speaker had also noted that 500 motions on pressing matters affecting the people were adopted, while 962 bills in the area of legislation were received by the Green Chamber since inauguration.

So far, 120 of the bills have passed the Second Reading and are currently further legislative work at the Committee stage. Amongst the notable bills passed by the House in the period included the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill 2023 which was on November 23, 2023, assented to by President Bola Tinubu.