The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has refuted the widespread belief that the National Assembly is overfunded, describing it instead as the most underfunded arm of the Nigerian government.
Speaking through Hon. Amadi Victor Obuzor, who represented him at an event in Abuja on Wednesday, Abbas made the remarks during the launch of three digital legislative platforms. The platforms were developed by the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) with support from the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
He emphasized that contrary to public perception, the legislature operates with insufficient funding. “Many Nigerians mistakenly think the National Assembly enjoys excess funding. In reality, it’s the most financially neglected arm of government,” Abbas stated.
He acknowledged the efforts of development partners who, after conducting various assessments, affirmed the funding inadequacies faced by the legislature.
According to him, the introduction of the new digital tools will not only enhance transparency but also help reshape public opinion about the workings and challenges of the National Assembly.
