HB. 188-A BILL FOR AN ACT TO ALTER THE CONSTITUTION OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA 1999 TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF MEMBERS OF THE FEDERAL CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION TO PROVIDE EACH STATE OF THE FEDERATION AND FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY, ABUJA THE OPPORTUNITY OF ONE PERSON REPRESENTATION AND FOR RELATED MATTERS. Bill sponsored by Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullah
This Bill seeks to alter the 2nd Schedule of the Constitution to increase the number of members of the Federal Civil Service Commission thereby giving each state of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja the opportunity of one person representation.
Nigerian House of Representatives Considers HB. 188 to Amend Federal Civil Service Commission Membership*
The Nigerian House of Representatives is currently reviewing HB. 188, a proposed bill that seeks to amend the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended). This bill aims to expand the membership of the Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC) and ensure greater representation from all states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
One of the primary objectives of HB. 188 is to increase the number of members on the FCSC. The bill stipulates that each state in Nigeria, as well as the FCT, should have at least one representative on the commission. This provision seeks to foster inclusivity and uphold the principle of federal character, which is essential for equitable representation across Nigeria’s diverse regions.
By ensuring that every state has a seat at the table, proponents of the bill argue that it will lead to a more diverse and balanced FCSC. This diversity is expected to enhance the commission’s ability to address the unique needs and perspectives of various regions, ultimately promoting fairness in the recruitment and management processes within the federal civil service.
Another significant aspect of the bill is its potential to improve oversight and accountability within the federal civil service. With a larger and more representative commission, there may be a stronger capacity to oversee federal civil service operations, address grievances, and ensure compliance with established rules and regulations. This could lead to more transparent governance and foster trust among citizens regarding the civil service.
Currently, the legislative status of HB. 188 indicates that it is undergoing examination, as is customary for bills in the Nigerian House of Representatives. Typical stages for the bill include a First Reading, where it is introduced; a Second Reading, during which the general principles are debated; and a Committee Stage that allows for detailed scrutiny and potential public hearings. Following these stages, the bill would proceed to a Committee of the Whole and then to a Third Reading for further debate and final passage by the House.
Once approved by the House of Representatives, HB. 188 will be transmitted to the Senate, where it will undergo a similar review process. As this bill involves altering the Constitution, it must adhere to specific amendment procedures, requiring a two-thirds majority vote in both the Senate and the House of Representatives. Additionally, a resolution of two-thirds of the State Houses of Assembly is necessary for the amendment to take effect.
In summary, HB. 188 aims to expand the Federal Civil Service Commission’s membership to guarantee representation from each state and the FCT. This initiative is expected to enhance inclusivity, promote federal character, and improve oversight within the commission, thereby contributing to a fairer and more effective civil service in Nigeria. As discussions continue, stakeholders are keeping a close watch on the bill’s progress and potential implications for governance in the country.
