The Nigerian Senate has announced its readiness to work with the Executive to address pressing socio-political tensions, including the ongoing crisis in Rivers State, as it resumes plenary on Tuesday.
The Senate aims to foster reconciliation and tackle the root causes of conflicts to ensure national stability and development.
In a statement issued on Monday, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele outlined the chamber’s priorities, with the Tax Reform Bills, 2024, taking center stage.
The bills are seen as critical to reforming Nigeria’s tax system, boosting national revenue, and enabling effective implementation of developmental projects across all tiers of government.
“The passage of these bills is imperative to shore up the revenue of the federation,” Bamidele said.
The Senate also expressed concern over the resurgence of insecurity in states such as Benue, Borno, Katsina, and Plateau.
Bamidele emphasized the Senate’s commitment to engaging security agencies and developing stronger mechanisms to combat terrorism.
“As the foremost democratic institution, we are committed to putting an end to all acts of terrorism across the federation,” he stated.
On recent presidential appointments, including the nomination of Bayo Ojulari as Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and the management team of the South-South Development Commission, the Senate confirmed it would screen nominees requiring its approval.
The ongoing Constitution Review Process, led by Deputy Senate President Barau I. Jubrin, will also be accelerated to strengthen Nigeria’s federal structure.
Additionally, the Senate plans to review the Electoral Act, 2022, to enhance transparency and credibility in the country’s electoral processes.
Bamidele urged Senate committees to expedite the consideration of pending bills across key sectors and to hold public hearings to encourage citizen participation in lawmaking.
“We must provide platforms for the public to contribute meaningfully to our legislative processes,” he said.
