As the House of Representatives resumes from its annual recess, it expects the executive’s prompt submission of the 2025 Appropriation Bill, essential for maintaining the January-December budget cycle. House spokesperson Rep. Akin Rotimi Jr emphasized that the early submission would allow for thorough scrutiny and public input, following the town hall meetings initiated during the 2024 budget review.

Rotimi Jr highlighted the house’s focus on key legislative duties, including the ongoing constitutional review, electoral reforms, and local government autonomy. He reaffirmed the house’s commitment to the December 2025 deadline for concluding the Sixth Alteration to the 1999 Constitution. The House Committee on Constitution Review, led by Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has received over 305 public memoranda and 150 Constitution Alteration bills, signaling high public engagement.

Regarding electoral reforms, the house aims to amend the Electoral Act 2022, addressing gaps and ensuring alignment with global best practices. The groundwork began in November 2023 with a town hall on electoral reforms by the House Committee on Electoral Matters.

On local government autonomy, the house plans to pass bills ensuring alignment with the Supreme Court ruling on financial and operational independence for local councils, a critical component of the 10th Assembly’s legislative agenda.

Additionally, the house expects an executive bill on Whistleblower Protection, an initiative aligned with its 8-Point Legislative Agenda, which focuses on strengthening governance and improving national security.