By Abbanobi-Eku Onyeka, Abuja
A new book examining the evolution, functions and challenges of Nigeria’s legislature will be formally launched on Monday, July 13, at the National Assembly Library Conference Hall in Abuja.
The 530-page publication, titled The Nigerian Legislature: Understanding Its Impact on Democratic Governance and National Development, offers a comprehensive analysis of the country’s legislative institution, tracing its development from pre-colonial governance structures through colonial rule and military administrations to the current presidential system under the Fourth Republic.
Authored by Ezrel Tabiowo, Media Adviser to former Senate President Senator Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan, the book explores the legislature’s constitutional responsibilities, including lawmaking, appropriation, oversight and representation, while proposing reforms aimed at strengthening the institution and enhancing democratic governance.
Tabiowo, a former Chief Legislative Correspondent and past Chairman of the Senate Press Corps, currently serves as Secretary-General of the West African Parliamentary Press Corps. His extensive experience covering the National Assembly and later serving as Chief Press Secretary to the President of the Ninth Senate between 2019 and 2023 provides the foundation for the scholarly work.
The book also reflects his current role as Media Adviser to Senator Lawan, who chairs the Senate Committee on Defence.
The publication features forewords by former Senate Leader and Pro-Chancellor of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba (SAN), and former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Bello Adoke (SAN).
The book will be reviewed by Senator Ita Solomon Enang, Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Federal Republic of Germany and former Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters.
Former Senate President Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan, who currently chairs the Senate Committee on Defence, will serve as the Chief Host of the event.
The Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Professor Abubakar Suleiman, is expected to serve as Book Presenter and Special Guest of Honour.
Organisers said the launch, scheduled for 12 noon at the National Assembly Library Conference Hall, is open to members of the public, with guests expected to be seated before the commencement of proceedings.
