The Chief of Staff to the President of Nigeria, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila has emphasised the pivotal role of legislative committees in determining the House of Representatives’ legacy.
Gbajabiamila made the statement at a one-day retreat for Chairmen and Deputies of the House of Representatives.
Addressing the attendees in Abuja, Gbajabiamila underscored the historical significance of committees, highlighting their instrumental function in achieving legislative objectives and accomplishments.
The former Speaker of the House of Reps stressed that the reputation of the 10th House of Representatives would primarily rely on the conduct, priorities, and professionalism exhibited by committee members.
He stated that despite the recognition of the parliament’s responsibility in legislation, there’s a lack of understanding regarding resource limitations and policy imperatives that affect parliamentary operations.
Acknowledging the collapse of local government administrations nationwide, Gbajabiamila highlighted how constituents increasingly rely on legislative representatives to fill the void, expecting them to perform municipal functions.
“This shift in expectations thrusts upon legislators the responsibility of addressing varied constituency needs, from healthcare and education to social infrastructure, beyond the constitutional scope,” he noted.
He further stated that the disproportionate focus of federal legislators on meeting the demands diverted attention from their core obligations as lawmakers and overseers of the public purse.
The situation, he pointed out, necessitates a national conversation to redefine the legislative role, balancing constituency needs while fulfilling constitutional mandates.
The Chief of Staff urged a concerted effort to allow legislators to refocus on national interests, aligning with the Constitution’s objectives.
He emphasised that this would necessitate revisiting legislators’ roles and responsibilities in addressing constituents’ demands, allowing them to concentrate on legislative duties to serve the nation’s greater good.
”The legislature is the engine room of a democratic government, and you, the chairmen and deputies, are the gears that
keep that engine running. It is a high honour and a profound responsibility.
”More than at any other time in the nation’s history, all of us who hold office in government must put our best foot forward every day so that by our joint endeavour, we can advance the cause of our nation.
”Our fellow citizens have invested their hopes, dreams and expectations of a better life for themselves and a better future for their children. We must never lose sight of this reality, as to do so will be a betrayal of our commitments to God and country,” he stated.
