As Nigeria eagerly anticipates the inauguration of its 10th National Assembly, the selection of leadership positions takes center stage in the political landscape.
President Bola Tinubu, a prominent figure within the All Progressives Congress (APC), has been actively rallying support for the party’s consensus candidates.
In a recent meeting held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, President Tinubu engaged with the newly elected Senators and House of Representatives members, stressing the utmost importance of unity and endorsing the chosen candidates.
President Tinubu’s Vision for Effective NASS Leadership
President Tinubu, known for his strategic acumen, expressed unwavering confidence in the capabilities and experience of the selected candidates, namely Senator Godswill Akpabio, Senator Jibrin Barau, Tajudeen Abbas, and Benjamin Kalu.
Emphasizing their capacity, competence, inclusive spirit, and humility, President Tinubu highlighted these qualities as crucial for leading the National Assembly effectively.
His vision aligns with the aspiration for a stable and progressive parliament that can contribute to the nation’s advancement.
Prioritizing the National Interest and Unity
President Tinubu’s appeal to the lawmakers-elect transcends partisan affiliations, placing paramount importance on the national interest.
He urged the elected officials to set aside political differences and collaborate with the executive branch in addressing the critical challenges facing Nigeria.
President Tinubu stressed the significance of a united front, encouraging lawmakers to focus on delivering the goals and aspirations of the Nigerian people.
Lawmakers-elect: Embracing the Call for Unity
Senator Eyinnaya Abaribe, speaking on behalf of the lawmakers-elect, expressed profound gratitude for President Tinubu’s efforts in fostering cohesion, inclusion, and stability among the elected representatives.
The lawmakers-elect not only acknowledged but wholeheartedly embraced President Tinubu’s message, demonstrating their commitment to working harmoniously to achieve the set objectives.
This unified approach will not only foster collaboration with the executive arm of government but also ensure the independence of the legislature.
Inauguration Preparations and Support from Governors
As the National Assembly’s inauguration approaches on Tuesday, June 13, senators-elect and members-elect must fulfill certain requirements.
These include presenting their code of conduct clearance, certificates of return, and valid identity cards for registration on Monday, June 12.
Due to ongoing renovations in the chambers, each lawmaker-elect will be accompanied by only one guest, who will be seated at the arcade.
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, speaking on behalf of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), expressed unwavering support for the APC’s choice of Akpabio, Jibrin, Abbas, and Kalu for the National Assembly leadership positions.
The NGF, composed of governors from various political parties, unanimously agreed to support President Tinubu’s decision.
This collective support aims to ensure a harmonious working relationship between the executive and legislative arms of government.
Opposition Parties’ Strategy and the LP’s Position
In contrast to the ruling APC’s endorsement, opposition parties, led by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), have chosen to keep their plans for the National Assembly leadership under wraps for strategic reasons.
The PDP, alongside other opposition parties, intends to vote for common candidates in both chambers to maximize the majority status of the opposition parties.
Through close coordination with its members-elect and other opposition parties, the PDP aims to achieve a unified front.
Additionally, the Labour Party (LP) recently held a closed-door meeting in Abuja to discuss the selection of the National Assembly leadership.
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, the sole LP governor, conveyed the party’s intention to vote en bloc and announced the lawmakers-elect’s collaboration with a unified LP position.
President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to unity, inclusivity, and stability within the National Assembly has garnered significant support.
The selected candidates possess the necessary qualities and experience to lead effectively, with a focus on the national interest.
As preparations for the inauguration continue, the nation eagerly awaits the collective efforts of lawmakers from across party lines to address Nigeria’s critical challenges and work towards fulfilling the aspirations of its people.