Reps plan security summit

The House of Representatives disclosed on Wednesday its plan to convene a security summit in the last quarter of the year as part of measures to address the raging insecurity in the country.

The Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, speaking during Wednesday’s plenary, also promised the commitment of the lawmakers to wide-ranging reforms across the economic, education and other sectors.

Abbas, who tasked lawmakers to redouble their efforts in the task of delivering democracy dividends to Nigerians, commended security agents for the recent successes recorded against terrorists hounding citizens.

He said, “The House of Representatives will hold a high-level legislative security summit in the final quarter of the year. This summit will address Nigeria’s urgent security challenges by bringing together key stakeholders, including the executive, security agencies, policy experts, and civil society organisations.

“The focus will be on legislative reforms to strengthen the capabilities of our security institutions, improve inter-agency collaboration, and optimise the use of intelligence in tackling insurgency, banditry, and other security threats.

“In addition, the summit will explore approaches to community policing, securing borders, and integrating advanced technology into national defence.”

While noting that security challenges remained a significant concern, the military, according to him, “successfully neutralised over 150 terrorists and major bandit kingpins. “

These security gains, “alongside increased collaboration with neighbouring countries and improved intelligence sharing,”  the Speaker said, “demonstrate the government’s commitment to restoring peace.”

He also called for collaboration with the executive arm of government to deliver the gains of democracy to Nigerians.

“While safeguarding our independence as a legislative body, we are committed to working in harmony with the executive for the greater good of Nigeria. Our joint efforts are vital to securing economic stability, enhancing security, and fostering national development.

“This partnership is anchored on mutual respect, transparency, and a shared vision for the future of our nation,” he added.

He further highlighted the gains made by the House before it proceeded on vacation in July.

“Before the recess, we made commendable legislative achievements, passing critical bills and conducting oversight functions that have positively impacted the lives of our citizens.

“With 1,351 bills introduced and 89 passed, the 10th House has made significant progress. Our efforts have addressed vital sectors such as electricity, healthcare, and financial accountability.

“But as we look forward, we must maintain momentum. In the coming months, we will prioritise economic reforms, youth empowerment, healthcare, infrastructure, and education,” he said.

The economic challenges facing the nation, he noted,  “require urgent legislative action, and the House is committed to passing laws that drive recovery, attract investments, create jobs, and provide immediate relief through targeted social welfare programmes.”

“We will support vulnerable populations by advancing youth empowerment and ensuring access to education through the Student Loan Scheme,” the Speaker added.

He commended President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Executive Council for approving the economic stabilisation bills, which in his words, “offer tax relief for businesses generating employment, personal income relief for workers, and suspend burdensome taxes on small businesses and vulnerable groups.”

“The House of Representatives is fully prepared to receive these bills and expedite their passage to ensure timely implementation and economic stability,” the Speaker said.