Abuja: Inaugurated on June 13, 2023, the 10th Nigerian Senate, under the leadership of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, has dubbed itself the 'uncommon Senate'. This designation reflects an ambition to stand out in productivity and impact, with emphasis on 'people-centred' legislation. In his inaugural speech, Akpabio had assured his colleagues of cooperation in all matters, stating that their joint efforts would bolster efficiency in the red chamber. "It is time now to go forward with the task set before us as a collective body - the promulgation of laws and enactments for the well-being and security of the country," he said.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, two years after, observers say the 10th Senate has made significant legislative and oversight moves, aiming to shape Nigeria's policy and economic landscape. They highlight Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, who represents Ekiti Central Senatorial District, as a standout figure. Bamidele played key roles in the last two years in the formulation and prioritisation of several significant legislative initiatives, including the introduction and passage of the Tax Reform Bills 2024. These executive bills, sponsored by Bamidele, are poised to redefine Nigeria's fiscal landscape and offer the prospect of enhanced revenue without overburdening taxpayers.
Bamidele noted his accomplishments, particularly in areas of fiscal reform and national security. By working with colleagues across political divides, he claims to have successfully passed laws aimed at creating an environment for economic competitiveness and positioning Nigeria for a 1 trillion dollar economy by 2030. Efforts were also exemplified in the amendment of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (Establishment) Act, 2024, which guarantees the sustainability of the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP) as a tool for poverty alleviation.
The 10th Senate has also passed the Investments and Securities (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill, 2024, and amended the Nigeria Data Protection Act (Amendment) Act, 2023. These legislative actions aim at promoting accountability and transparency within the digital media space. Another key bill is the Student Loans (Access to Higher Education) (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill, 2024, establishing the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) to provide financial aid to students in tertiary institutions.
Additional achievements include passing the Minimum Wage Bill, approved by President Bola Tinubu, increasing the minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000. The legislation mandates a review of wages every three years. The Judicial Office Holders Salaries and Allowances Bill, which raises earnings by 300 percent, was also signed into law. Furthermore, bills on regional development commissions were signed into law by the President, establishing commissions in various regions for development purposes.
Sen. Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, praised the 10th Senate for delivering on its mandate, highlighting the passage of 700 bills and successful oversight functions, particularly in security matters. He emphasized the Senate's role in raising the minimum wage and enhancing judicial officers' emoluments.
Sen. Sunday Karimi, Chairman of the Committee on Senate Services, also affirmed the 10th Senate's performance, mentioning the impact of passed bills and motions. Despite criticisms of the Senate being a rubber stamp for the executive, Karimi rejected such claims, highlighting instances where the Senate disagreed with the executive.
While the Senate applauds its accomplishments, political pundits urge the National Assembly to continue rising to its mandate of making laws for peace, order, and good governance, while representing the interests and wellbeing of the citizenry.