Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, the newly elected Speaker of the House of Representatives, has promised to uphold the principle of transparency, accountability and the rule of law to deliver good governance for the benefit of all Nigerians.
The Speaker made this known while delivering his acceptance speech on Tuesday in Abuja.
He said, “Under my watch, the 10th house shall sustain and even surpass the gains of the ninth house. That is my prayer.
“We shall carry out the task before us jointly. We shall introduce reforms and innovations for the benefit of Nigerians.
“In a few weeks, we shall be reeling out the legislative agenda that will shape the 10th House of Representatives.
“We shall work closely and inter-dependently with the executive and judiciary to give Nigerians the good governance they deserve,” he said.
Abbas said that the house stand at a crucial juncture in the nation’s history, where challenges abound but so do opportunities, adding the house would champion legislations that would uplift the lives of fellow citizens, promote social justice, and drive sustainable development.
The speaker also stated that the house’s focus would be on strengthening the security apparatus and collaboration with relevant stakeholders to combat insurgency, terrorism, and all forms of criminalities, adding that the house would aim to help create a safe and secure environment that would foster economic growth and social stability.
“Through legislations, the 10th house will promote entrepreneurship and support small and medium-scale enterprises.
“We shall diversify our economy and provide sustainable employment opportunities for our youth.
“We are aware of the challenges in our education, healthcare, and infrastructure sectors amongst other.
“We will work in harmony with the executive arm, while upholding principles of checks and balances.
“Our collaboration will be anchored on the principles of transparency, accountability, and respect for the rule of law,” he said.
Abbas, while thanking his colleagues for their support, said that the victory at the polls was not just for him but for all the members and all Nigerians.
He said the mandate bestowed on him as speaker would not be taken for granted, while assuring members that he would be just and fair to everyone irrespective of political party and perceived differences.
He congratulated his predecessor, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila and prayed for his success in his new office as Chief of Staff to the President.