The Speaker, House of Representatives, Rep. Abbas Tajudeen, says the National Assembly Infrastructure and Property Agency Bill (IPA), is a major step in strengthening institutional independence of the National Assembly.
Freedomonline reports that the agency when established would help manage every aspect of National Assembly buildings and precincts.
This includes structural maintenance, mechanical services, liaison offices and the preservation of our architectural heritage.
Abbas, represented by Minority Whip, Rep. Ali Isa, stated this while declaring open a public hearing on the presentation of bill in Abuja on Monday.
He said that the legislation underlined the urgent need to protect and sustain the physical integrity of the assembly complex and its associated property across the country.
“This marks a major step in strengthening the national assembly’s institutional independence through the establishment of a dedicated agency to manage its infrastructure and property,” he said.
The speaker commended the committee and the co-sponsors of the bill for their commitment and dedication in bringing the bill to the present stage.
According to Abbas, the bill does not seek to replace the existing Directorate of Estates and Works, rather, it transfers the responsibilities currently performed by the Federal Capital Development Authority to the national assembly.
He explained that the bill was designed to place control over their premises where it belonged, within the institution that was being used and maintained.
Abbas also said that the aim was to ensure that maintenance, development and preservation were handled with the priority and professionalism they deserve.
“Over the years, we have seen the consequences of disjointed management, including delayed repairs, safety concerns and operational inefficiencies,” the speaker said.
He expressed optimism that with a dedicated agency, all emerging challenges would be addressed through long-term planning, preventive maintenance schedules and transparent procurement.
Speaking, the Chairman, Committee on House Services, Rep. Amos Daniel, described the bill as a significant milestone on legislative autonomy.
Daniel said that the bill would go a long way in enhancing legislative autonomy to better operate with efficiency and optimum delivery of its services.
According to him, it will effectively strengthen the independence of the national assembly which is needed in the shaping legislative framework.
“The idea is in line with global best practices like in the U.S.A., where the architect of the Capitol has managed and preserved the Capitol Complex,’’ he said.
He also likened it to the United Kingdom Parliament with the Parliamentary Estates Agency that performed a similar function.
A co-sponsor of the bill, Rep. Daniel Asama, said that bill sought to establish National Assembly infrastructure and property Agency to ensure the upkeep of the National Assembly property.
Asama said that it would enhance efficiency and productive legislative processes.
