Abu Shadrach- Abuja, Nigeria
The House Services Committee of the House of Representatives today held a public hearing on the Bill for an Act to Establish the National Assembly Infrastructure and Property Agency, 2025. The hearing, which brought together a wide range of stakeholders, took place at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja.
In his opening address, the Chairman of the House Services Committee, Hon. Amos Daniel, described the bill as a vital step toward strengthening the independence and operational capacity of Nigeria’s legislature.
“This marks a significant milestone in our pursuit of legislative autonomy,” he stated. “Currently, the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), an executive agency, is responsible for the development and maintenance of National Assembly infrastructure a situation that contradicts the doctrine of separation of powers.”
Hon. Daniel acknowledged and appreciated the FCDA’s past contributions, especially in the early days of Nigeria’s democracy, but emphasized the need for a shift in line with evolving democratic standards.
“As our democracy matures, there comes a time to review and reform existing institutional arrangements to better reflect efficiency, autonomy, and good governance. That time is now,” he added.
The proposed National Assembly Infrastructure and Property Agency aims to take over the planning, development, maintenance, and management of all infrastructure and property belonging to the National Assembly. The move, according to the committee, is in line with best practices from other democratic nations such as South Africa, Kenya, the United States, and the United Kingdom where legislative bodies independently manage their infrastructure and facilities through non-partisan or specialized agencies.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., GCON, was ably represented by the Minority Whip, Hon. Ali Isa, who declared the public hearing open on his behalf. Hon. Isa reiterated the Speaker’s full support for the initiative, describing it as a bold and necessary reform for the legislature.
The public hearing attracted participants from government agencies, civil society, professional bodies, and the general public. Stakeholders were given the opportunity to make submissions and offer insights that will help refine the proposed legislation.
Hon. Daniel concluded by thanking the Speaker for entrusting the Committee with the responsibility of steering such a crucial assignment and expressed confidence that the feedback gathered would contribute meaningfully to the development of a more autonomous and efficient National Assembly.
The Committee is expected to review all contributions and submit its recommendations for further legislative action.