January 29, 2026 – The House of Representatives plenary on Thursday was marked by an emotional valedictory session as members paid glowing tributes to the retiring Clerk of the House, Dr. Yahaya Dan Zaria.
The session was presided over by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, who invited Dr. Dan Zaria to stand and granted members the floor to deliver goodwill messages in his honour.
The Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, described the moment as one filled with mixed emotions, noting that the House was bidding farewell to a dedicated and hardworking public servant. He observed that although Dr. Dan Zaria remains young and active, his retirement was due to his long years of service, having joined the service at a very early age. He wished him success in his future endeavours.
The Majority Leader, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, praised Dr. Dan Zaria as a meticulous administrator who paid great attention to detail in the discharge of his duties. He expressed confidence that the House would continue to draw from his wealth of experience and patriotism even in retirement.
Hon. Ali described the retiring Clerk as a selfless and dedicated officer who had served the National Assembly with distinction over the years. He prayed that retirement would usher him into a fulfilling new phase of life.
Hon. Chisom commended Dr. Dan Zaria’s uncommon dedication, describing him as an “amazing soul.” She humorously conferred on him the title “Distinguished Clerk of the Century,” adding that the House would invite him to join a good political party to ensure that his wealth of knowledge does not go into extinction.
Hon. Sada Soli, who said he had known Dr. Dan Zaria for over 13 years within the corridors of the National Assembly, congratulated him on his meritorious service and ingenuity throughout his career.
Hon. Stanley expressed appreciation for Dr. Dan Zaria’s calm disposition and result-oriented service, encouraging him to continue using his knowledge and experience to mentor and guide those coming behind.
Hon. Mark lauded him as a gentleman and exemplary public servant who gave his all in service to democracy. He noted that Dr. Dan Zaria leaves behind enduring footprints of integrity and faithfulness.
Hon. Usman Jaha described the retiree as one of the most humble and simple clerks he had ever worked with in the National Assembly, emphasizing that the celebration extended to all those who contributed to his success.
In his closing remarks, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, congratulated Dr. Dan Zaria on his distinguished service and invited the principal officers for a group photograph with the retiree and the newly appointed Acting Clerk of the House, Mallam Ibrahim Sidi.
