…Ogunlana hails 10th House achievements, urges Nigerians to deepen participation
The Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, on Tuesday described the 2026 House of Representatives Open Week as a critical platform for deepening democratic governance, enhancing transparency and strengthening the relationship between the legislature and the Nigerian people.
Ogunlana stated this while speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2026 House of Representatives Open Week in Abuja.
Speaking on behalf of the National Assembly Management, he welcomed dignitaries from across the country and commended the leadership of the House for sustaining what he described as a symbol of parliamentary openness and public engagement.
The event drew participants from across different sectors, including the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, members of the judiciary, lawmakers, representatives of the executive arm, diplomats, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, development partners and members of the media.
According to the CNA, the Open Week has grown into one of the most significant expressions of democratic participation in Nigeria, offering citizens the opportunity to understand legislative processes and engage directly with their elected representatives.
He noted that the House of Representatives occupies a unique position in Nigeria’s democratic framework as the chamber with the broadest representation, with members drawn from all federal constituencies.
“The House serves as the closest legislative institution to the people, translating local aspirations into national policies and legislation,” he said.
Ogunlana also highlighted the achievements of the 10th House, describing it as a responsive and people-centred legislature committed to addressing national challenges through effective lawmaking and oversight.
He cited the expansion of the committee system to strengthen oversight and stakeholder engagement, the consideration of an unprecedented number of public petitions, and the introduction of numerous bills targeted at economic development, institutional strengthening, national security, governance and social welfare.
He said these efforts demonstrate the House’s commitment to placing citizens at the centre of the legislative process.
The CNA added that the Open Week provides an avenue for lawmakers and citizens to reflect on the House’s journey, assess its performance and renew commitment to representative democracy.
He stressed that the initiative helps demystify parliamentary procedures by opening the legislature to the public and fostering a better understanding of governance.
“Through initiatives such as Open Week, citizens gain deeper insight into legislative activities, while lawmakers receive important feedback that improves representation and policymaking,” he added.
Ogunlana further emphasised that transparency, accountability and public trust remain essential pillars of democratic governance, noting that the House’s engagement with citizens reflects its commitment to participatory democracy.
He commended the leadership of the House under the Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, for institutionalising the initiative and promoting an open, responsive and accountable legislature.
The CNA also acknowledged the role of development partners in supporting parliamentary democracy and enhancing citizen participation.
He urged participants to actively engage in the discussions, exhibitions and interactive sessions lined up for the week-long event, expressing confidence that the engagements would contribute to building a stronger legislature and a more vibrant democracy.
The 2026 House of Representatives Open Week will feature a series of stakeholder engagements aimed at fostering dialogue between lawmakers and citizens while showcasing the activities and achievements of the Green Chamber.