Young legislators in the 10th National Assembly have expressed their commitment to addressing identified gaps in the 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Act once they return from recess in September, during a capacity-building workshop organized by Yiaga Africa Centre for Legislative Engagement in Akwa Ibom State, the members emphasized their dedication to driving effective legislation and bridging the lacunae identified during the session on bill scrutiny and analysis.
The workshop aimed to empower young parliamentarians aged 45 years and below to actively participate and contribute to the legislative process while ensuring the independence and financial autonomy of each arm of government.
Martins Esin, the House Committee Chairman on Youth Development and representative of Oron/Mbo/Okobo/Udung Uko/Urueffong Oruko Federal constituency, highlighted the significance of youth inclusion and participation in the legislative agenda for the 10th National Assembly. He acknowledged the need to holistically tackle issues such as incomplete financial autonomy by the three arms of government. Upon resumption from recess, the young legislators intend to work towards closing these gaps and promoting effective governance that serves the national interest.
During the workshop, resource person Senator Ita Enang, the Senior Special Assistant to former President Muhammadu Buhari on National Assembly Matters, emphasized the importance of executive compliance with the provisions of the constitution, particularly in allowing full financial autonomy for the legislature and judiciary.
Enang pointed out that despite constitutional amendments, no state governor has fully complied with the provision. The young parliamentarians were urged to ensure the implementation of financial autonomy in their respective states, fostering effective oversight and accountability in governance.