The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has declared that the National Assembly is the most underfunded arm of Nigeria’s government—contrary to widespread public perception.
Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday during the launch of three new digital legislative platforms by the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) supported by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office Abbas, represented by Hon. Amadi Victor Obuzor (Ahoada West/Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Federal Constituency), debunked the belief that lawmakers receive excessive funding.
“Many Nigerians erroneously believe that the National Assembly is overfunded. Sadly, the National Assembly is the most underfunded arm of the government,” he said.
He noted that several development partners, after conducting assessments, have confirmed the legislature’s lack of adequate financial support. Abbas expressed hope that the new digital tools will help boost transparency, address misconceptions, and foster greater citizen engagement.
The unveiled platforms include:
- PLAC Bills Track
- Legislative Agenda Tracker
- Legislative Repository
These platforms are designed to improve access to legislative data, enabling users to track bills, view full legislation texts, and explore infographics and analytical insights.
PLAC’s Deputy Executive Director, Omolara Akinyeye, emphasized that the platforms will allow Nigerians to follow the progress of bills and legislative work more closely.
The Executive Director of PLAC, Clement Nwankwo, highlighted the importance of the tools in strengthening public accountability and democratic oversight.
“Legislators face massive pressure from constituents and stakeholders. But they must also stay focused on core legislative duties—oversight, accountability, and representation,” Nwankwo said.
He reiterated the platforms’ role in helping lawmakers and citizens share information and collaborate more effectively.
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