By Mercy Aikoye
The National Assembly will hold a Joint Sitting this week to commemorate 25 years of unbroken democracy and legislative practices in Nigeria.
This significant milestone will be marked by a series of events scheduled to begin at 10:00 am on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, in the Green Chamber, House of Representatives Building, National Assembly Complex, Abuja.
This development was conveyed to lawmakers of both chambers via an advisory from the National Assembly Management on Monday.
Highlights of the event include a keynote speech by H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. It would also feature commemorative lectures on the theme “25 Years of the National Assembly: Lessons & Opportunities” by Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, CFR (Speaker, 9th House of Representatives); Senator (Dr.) David A.B. Mark, GCON (President of the 6th & 7th Senate); and Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, GCFR (Former Head of State).
Following the joint sitting, the event will proceed with the unveiling and commissioning of the National Assembly Library Complex, named the Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu Building. A tour of the new facility will also be conducted.
Nigeria’s Fourth Republic was birthed on May 29, 1999, following the country’s return to civilian rule. Nigeria’s political trajectory has seen many periods of military intervention, and the period since 1999 has been the longest of unbroken legislative practice. The country’s democracy has matured, witnessing six electoral cycles, including an alternation of power between political parties.
President of the Senate and Chairman of the National Assembly, H.E. Senator Godswill Akpabio, remarked, “This Silver Jubilee is a testament to the resilience and enduring strength of our democratic institutions. The National Assembly has played a pivotal role in safeguarding our democracy, and this event is a fitting tribute to our shared commitment to the nation’s progress.”
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, added, “The 10th National Assembly places great significance on celebrating our democratic journey. This commemorative sitting underscores our dedication to reflecting on the lessons learned and the opportunities ahead as we continue to serve the Nigerian people.”
The event will be attended by distinguished guests, including the Vice President, Deputy President of the Senate, Deputy Speaker of the House, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief of Staff to the President, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum(NGF), Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Clerk to the National Assembly, and other notable dignitaries.
