As Nigeria continues its democratic journey, the National Assembly remains one of the most critical institutions shaping the country's political and economic landscape. However, the effectiveness of this legislative body has become a subject of increasing debate. While some believe the bicameral system—comprising the Senate and the House of Representatives—is crucial for checks and balances, others argue that it is redundant, costly, and inefficient.
The House of Representatives has played a crucial role in lawmaking and policy direction, with several legislative achievements aimed at improving the welfare of Nigerians. One of its most significant contributions has been the passage of the 2025 Appropriation Bill, which is expected to drive economic growth and national development. Additionally, its support for the Brazil-Nigeria Agriculture Revolution aims to strengthen food security and boost agricultural productivity, addressing one of Nigeria’s longstanding economic challenges.
Beyond legislation, the House has also made strides in social intervention, demonstrating its commitment to the welfare of citizens. A notable example is its contribution of ₦705 million to support the less privileged, reflecting an effort to provide relief in a country grappling with economic hardship. Furthermore, the House played a key role in recovering ₦28.7 billion from two oil companies indebted to the federation, a step towards holding corporations accountable and ensuring that Nigeria benefits from its natural resources.
The Senate, often seen as the more senior legislative chamber, has also made significant contributions, particularly in maintaining order and leadership within the Assembly. One of its recent actions was passing a vote of confidence in the Senate President, despite ongoing controversies, including allegations of sexual harassment. This move was seen as an attempt to consolidate leadership stability at a time when the institution faced internal and external scrutiny.
Additionally, the Senate suspended a member for engaging in unparliamentary conduct, reinforcing its commitment to upholding legislative discipline and decorum. While some view these actions as necessary to maintain order, others argue that they sometimes serve political interests rather than democratic principles.
The financial operations of the National Assembly have always been a contentious issue, with critics questioning the transparency of its budget allocations. While details on the specific breakdown of the 2025 budget for the Senate and House of Representatives remain unclear, there is ongoing concern about whether legislative spending aligns with national priorities. Calls for greater accountability and public access to budgetary details have intensified, as citizens demand to know how their representatives allocate resources.
One of the most contentious debates in Nigeria’s legislative discourse is whether the country still needs a bicameral system. Proponents of scrapping the Senate argue that doing so would streamline decision-making, reduce bureaucratic delays, and cut down the cost of governance. They believe that the House of Representatives alone could efficiently legislate without the duplication of roles between both chambers.
On the other hand, supporters of the current system emphasize that the Senate plays a critical role in providing checks and balances, ensuring that laws undergo thorough scrutiny before being passed. Without it, they argue, Nigeria could experience rushed legislation that may not adequately reflect national interests.
The debate over the structure and efficiency of the National Assembly is unlikely to end soon. However, what remains clear is that Nigeria’s legislative body must evolve to meet the growing demands of governance, accountability, and economic progress. Whether through restructuring, budget transparency, or reforms to improve efficiency, the National Assembly must remain committed to its core duty—serving the Nigerian people.
As the nation continues to navigate political and economic challenges, the effectiveness of the National Assembly will be crucial in determining whether Nigeria’s democracy truly serves its citizens or merely remains a system of government that prioritizes political interests over national development.