Reps to organise high-level legislative security summit

Speaker of the 10th House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas on Wednesday unveiled plans to convene a high-level legislative security summit for the final quarter of the year.

Abbas who disclosed this while addressing 10th Assembly members on resumption from the annual two months recess, assured that the House will prioritise several key bills to address critical national issues across security, governance, and environmental protection.

They are: Armed Forces Act (Amendment) Bill and the Police Act (Amendment) Bill focus on strengthening Nigeria’s security apparatus by enhancing the operational efficiency of the military and reforming the police to improve internal security, including through community policing and potential State Police reforms.

He said: “Legislative reforms will be prioritised to strengthen our security institutions, ensuring they respond more to emerging challenges. We commend the President for signing the Counter-Terrorism Bill into law, marking a crucial step in strengthening our collective fight against insecurity across the nation.

“As previously committed, the House of Representatives will hold a high-level Legislative Security Summit in the final quarter of the year.

“This summit will address Nigeria’s urgent security challenges by bringing together key stakeholders, including the Executive, security agencies, policy experts, and civil society organisations. The focus will be on legislative reforms to strengthen the capabilities of our security institutions, improve inter-agency collaboration, and optimise the use of intelligence in tackling insurgency, banditry, and other security threats. In addition, the summit will explore approaches to community policing, securing borders, and integrating advanced technology into national defense.”

Speaker Abbas who affirmed that Nigeria “is facing critical challenges”, expressed grave concern over devastating security incidents that bedevilled various communities across the Northern region of the country.

Furthermore, we cannot ignore the devastating security incidents that have afflicted various communities in recent months. From the Boko Haram attacks in Gamborou-Ngala, Borno State, to the tragic massacre of innocent people in Ndun village, Tangur District in Plateau State, and the heart-wrenching killings in Maigora, Katsina State.

Others include the violence in One-Man Village, Nasarawa State, the attacks in Sabon Tasha, Kaduna State, Guma in Benue State, the brutal killing of the District Head of Gobir by kidnappers, the abduction of healthcare workers and patients in Birnin Gwari, Kaduna State, and the multiple raids in Anka and Shinkafi in Zamfara. Our heart goes out to the families of the victims and to the communities who have endured these unspeakable losses. Let us observe a minute of silence in honour of the memory of those who have lost their lives and to renew our commitment to preventing such tragedies in the future.

He maintained that: “Security challenges remain a significant concern, particularly in the North. However, substantial progress has been made in combating insurgency, with military operations successfully neutralising over 150 terrorists and major bandit kingpins, according to recent reports from the Nigerian Armed Forces. International bodies like the United Nations and the African Union have recognised Nigeria’s continued efforts to enhance regional stability.

“These security gains, alongside increased collaboration with neighbouring countries and improved intelligence sharing, demonstrate the government’s commitment to restoring peace. While challenges persist, these efforts are gradually contributing to a safer environment for all Nigerians.

“Honourable Colleagues, as legislators, we are key architects in shaping Nigeria’s future. Our role transcends lawmaking; it is about safeguarding the welfare of citizens, promoting inclusive development, and ensuring good governance.

“Therefore, every Bill we pass, and every debate we hold must reflect the will of the people. Our actions in this chamber bear significant responsibility for the development and stability of Nigeria. Let us all approach our duties with renewed vigour, mindful of the aspirations of the millions of Nigerians we represent.”

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