As the National Assembly convenes for its upcoming sessions, this LIFE Service presents several pressing issues that are expected to dominate discussions and legislative considerations.
The upcoming sessions of the National Assembly are expected to address a range of pressing issues that reflect the current challenges facing the nation. This Legislative Intelligence Forecast Entry (LIFE) outlines key topics likely to be on the agenda, drawing upon recent developments and ongoing challenges facing the nation.
From recurring power issues to hunger in the land – as witnessed by attacks on food trucks and storage facilities; to the investigation of Ways and Means approved by the 9th Senate; to the need for a national healthcare upgrade following Mr Ibu’s death and the Binance drama; we can forecast that the National Assembly is poised to deliberate, either at plenary or in committee clusters, on these issues.
Epileptic Power Supply:
Nigeria continues to grapple with the challenge of unreliable power supply, significantly impeding economic growth and social development. The issue of epileptic power is likely to remain at the forefront of deliberations, as policymakers seek viable solutions to address this longstanding concern and ensure consistent access to electricity nationwide.
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Expect discussions on strategies to address the power sector’s challenges, including potential legislative measures, investigations, committee meetings and summons of stakeholders in the sector among measures by NASS to improve infrastructure, attract investments, and ensure a reliable power supply.
Arrest of Binance Crypto Executives and Forex Crisis:
Recent actions involving the arrest of Binance crypto executives as a purported solution to the forex crisis have stirred debate and raised questions about regulatory measures and economic policies.
Lawmakers are likely to engage in discussions regarding the broader implications of such interventions on the financial sector, especially in bilateral relationships as the arrested executives are non-citizens, as it explores strategies to address underlying challenges impacting the nation’s currency stability.
OrderPaper recalls that the Muhammadu Buhari administration outrightly banned cryptocurrencies while the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, took on Aboki FX as measures to grow the naira. Both efforts failed woefully.
Is this administration on the right track or following the failed steps of its predecessors?
Poor Health Facilities and the Passing of Mr. Ibu:
The recent demise of the popular actor, John Okafor (Mr. Ibu), has spotlighted the inadequacies of Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure and underscored the urgent need for comprehensive healthcare reforms.
Lawmakers are likely to examine the state of health facilities nationwide, identify critical deficiencies, and prioritize initiatives aimed at improving healthcare accessibility, quality, and affordability for all citizens.
Lawmakers may propose initiatives to prevent similar tragedies and enhance healthcare access for all citizens.
Investigation of Ways and Means Approved by the Previous Assembly:
The scrutiny of financial decisions and appropriations made by preceding legislative bodies is anticipated to garner attention during the upcoming sessions.
Reviewing ways and means previously approved, aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility within government operations.
Already, some lawmakers involved in the approval process have begun to kick against the investigation while others are bent on seeing it through.
Of course, we expect some drama on this issue.
Hungry Nigerians attacking food trucks and stores:
The alarming incidents of hungry Nigerians resorting to attacking food trucks and stores underscore the severity of food insecurity prevailing in various communities.
Lawmakers are likely to explore legislative solutions, including measures to strengthen the agricultural sector, improve distribution channels, and provide social safety nets to vulnerable populations.
In anticipation of these critical issues, policymakers are urged to engage in constructive dialogue, collaborate across party lines, and enact legislative measures that prioritize the welfare and prosperity of the Nigerian populace.
Stakeholders should also closely monitor the proceedings to stay informed about potential policy changes and legislative actions.
David Oputah
Oputah David M is a Bloomberg-trained Journalist with a diversified experience in online journalism and newsroom management. He is a 2023 MTN Media Innovation fellow!
