House of Rep to Reconvene, Focus on 2025 Budget, Constitutional Review, and Electoral Reforms

The House of Representatives is set to reconvene on Tuesday, September 24, following its annual recess, with a packed legislative agenda including discussions on the 2025 Appropriation Bill, constitutional amendments, and electoral reforms.

After a break that began on July 23, lawmakers will return to address critical national issues such as insecurity, economic stability, and the ongoing fuel crisis.

In a statement issued on Monday, House spokesperson Akin Rotimi revealed that Speaker Tajudeen Abbas will deliver a speech outlining the priorities for the session.

The statement read:
“With the 2024 fiscal year ending, the House expects the timely submission of the 2025 Appropriation Bill. This will allow for comprehensive scrutiny and public input, continuing the practice started during the 2024 budget review.”

Rotimi emphasized the House’s commitment to maintaining the January-December budget cycle, urging cooperation from the executive.

He further outlined that the House will prioritize legislative action on urgent national concerns, including the recent flooding in Maiduguri, insecurity, and economic challenges. These pressing issues, he added, will be prioritized to meet the needs of constituencies across the country.

Rotimi also highlighted the importance of constitutional amendments, stating:
“The constitutional review process is crucial for strengthening democracy. The House reaffirms the December 2025 deadline to finalize outcomes for the Sixth Alteration of the 1999 Constitution.”

Additionally, about 305 public memoranda and 150 constitution amendment bills submitted by members will receive accelerated consideration.

Electoral Reforms and Local Government Autonomy

Rotimi noted that electoral reforms are also high on the agenda, particularly amendments to the Electoral Act 2022. The House aims to address gaps and vague provisions, ensuring Nigeria’s electoral laws align with global best practices.

The landmark July 2024 Supreme Court ruling on local government autonomy will also prompt legislative action, with bills expected to ensure financial and operational independence for local councils.

Whistleblower Protection Bill

Anticipating an executive bill on Whistleblower Protection, Rotimi stressed that this initiative aligns with the House’s 8-Point Legislative Agenda, particularly in strengthening good governance and fighting corruption.

The session will also focus on oversight, legislative compliance, and constituency outreach to ensure effective governance and service delivery.