The House of Representatives is poised for a crucial plenary session today, February 13, 2025, with a comprehensive agenda covering several important bills, motions, and committee reports. These matters align with the House’s ongoing commitment to fostering effective governance and promoting national development.
Conference Committee Report on the Maize Exportation Bill
One of the significant discussions today will be the presentation of the Conference Committee Report on a Bill aimed at prohibiting the exportation of maize in large commercial quantities. This bill, presented by Rep. Babajimi Benson, seeks to address the economic implications of large-scale maize exportation, ensuring sufficient supply for local consumption.
Second Reading of Several Key Bills
The House will also proceed with the second reading of several bills that aim to address various sectors of the Nigerian economy and governance. Some of the notable bills on the agenda include:
The Central Gaming Bill – Sponsored by Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu and six other lawmakers, this bill aims to repeal the National Lottery Acts and regulate online and remote gaming in Nigeria.
The Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act Amendment Bill – This bill seeks to establish the Federal College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry in Tallase, Gombe State, in a bid to strengthen agricultural education and research in the region.
The Kofa, Bebeji Entrepreneurs University Bill – A bill that proposes the establishment of an entrepreneurial institution in Kano State, aimed at providing top-tier education and training for the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Constitutional Amendment Bill for State Creation – Sponsored by Rep. Wole Oke, this bill seeks to create three new states: Oke-Ogun, Ijebu, and Ife-Ijesa, in a move to enhance regional representation and development.
Bill for the Establishment of Lower Courts in the Federal Capital Territory – This bill proposes the creation of specialized lower courts in Abuja, aimed at expediting civil and criminal cases and easing the workload of existing courts.
National Agricultural Development Fund Act Amendment Bill – Aimed at improving agricultural financing, this bill seeks amendments to the National Agricultural Development Fund Act, 2022, to better support Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
Important Motions for Discussion
Along with these legislative proposals, several important motions will also be considered today:
Rescinding Clause 14(2) of the South West Development Commission Bill – Rep. Francis E. Waive will present a motion to revise this clause to better align it with federal policies.
Investigation into Fraudulent Practices in Contractor Payments – A motion by Rep. Paul Nnamchi, Rt. Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, and Rep. Aminu Sani Jaji calls for an inquiry into alleged fraudulent practices within the Ministry of Finance and the Accountant-General’s Office regarding contractor payments.
Scrutiny of Budgetary Allocations to Research Institutes – Rep. Ganiyu Adele Ayuba will present a motion seeking a detailed review of the funding allocated to research institutes from 2010 to date, in order to assess its utilization and impact on national development.
Call for the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to Clear Outstanding Contract Debts – Rep. Pascal Agbodike’s motion calls for NDDC to clear its outstanding debts to contractors, citing financial difficulties caused by unpaid contracts.
Committee Meetings Scheduled
In addition to the plenary discussions, several committee meetings are scheduled for today, including sessions of the Rules and Business Committee, the Public Petitions Committee, and the North West Development Commission.
The House of Representatives remains committed to ensuring that legislative matters are handled efficiently, with a focus on promoting national development, transparency, and accountability. Today’s plenary session will continue the critical work of shaping policies that impact the lives of Nigerians across the country.
For further details, the full Order Paper for the sitting is attached for reference.
Rep. Akin Rotimi Jr.
Spokesman, House of Representatives
Federal Republic of Nigeria
