The House of Representatives has officially changed the name of its Committee on Niger Delta to the House Committee on Regional Development. This decision was announced by Speaker Abbas Tajuddeen, who confirmed that the leadership of the House approved the alteration on Wednesday.
Currently, the Committee on Niger Delta is led by Rep. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, the daughter of James Ibori, a former Governor of Delta State. The renaming reflects a broader focus on regional development across Nigeria, aiming to address various developmental needs more comprehensively.
The impetus for this change stems from President Bola Ahmed’s directive to consolidate all regional development commissions under a newly established Ministry of Regional Development. This strategic move is intended to streamline efforts and enhance coordination among the various commissions.
As part of this reorganization, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) will now operate under the new ministry, alongside other regional bodies such as the North East Development Commission (NEDC), North West Development Commission (NWDC), South East Development Commission (SEDC), and South West Development Commission (SEDC).
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In addition to the committee changes, Speaker Abbas announced that the House would enter a recess starting Monday, November 4, and lasting until Monday, November 11, 2024. This break is designed to allow members to conduct essential oversight of various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of the government.
The Speaker emphasized that the recess would enable lawmakers to ensure accountability and transparency within the government, acting on behalf of the Nigerian populace. This oversight is crucial for maintaining the integrity of government operations and ensuring that public resources are used effectively.
Plenary sessions are set to resume on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, following the recess. This schedule allows members to regroup and address any pressing legislative matters that may arise during the break.
During his address, Speaker Abbas urged the MDAs to fully cooperate with the visiting members of the House. He highlighted the importance of collaboration in upholding the principles outlined in the Nigerian Constitution.
The changes and recess reflect a commitment to enhancing governance and accountability within Nigeria. By focusing on regional development and ensuring thorough oversight, the House aims to better serve the interests of its citizens.
Overall, these developments signify a proactive approach by the House of Representatives to adapt to the evolving needs of the nation, fostering a more integrated and accountable governmental framework.
