National Assembly members return to Abuja amid insecurity, weak Naira, other issues

Members of the National Assembly have returned to the Federal Capital Territory after a 30-day break. Nigeria is currently grappling with widespread insecurity, particularly in Plateau State, where renewed killings have occurred. Additionally, the withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) poses external security concerns for the country.

On the economic front, the Naira is experiencing a bearish trend against major currencies, trading at N1,450 against the dollar. This currency instability, coupled with other factors, has contributed to high inflation. As the National Assembly convenes for its first plenary session of the year, Nigerians anticipate debates on these pressing issues.

Several issues await the attention of the National Assembly, including:

1. Insecurity: Insecurity has been prominently featured in recent headlines, especially in Plateau State, where ethnoreligious violence has resurfaced, resulting in loss of lives and displacement. Despite previous efforts, legislative interventions have not significantly alleviated the security challenges faced by various constituencies.
2. Economy: Persistent inflation is causing economic hardship, despite government promises of interventions such as the rollout of CNG buses, a N35,000 disbursement to civil servants, and other initiatives. Low oil production has prompted the Dangote Refinery to consider importing crude oil from the United States to meet production targets.
3. State Police and Constitution Amendment: The National Assembly is set to prioritize security, constitution amendment, electoral reforms, and legislative oversight. The rising call for state police, fueled by increased insecurity, will likely be a focal point of discussion.
4. Relocation of CBN Departments, FAAN to Lagos: Lawmakers are expected to address the relocation of certain Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) departments and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to Lagos. Concerns have been raised by the northern Senate caucus about the perceived lopsided allocation of funds in the 2024 budget and the potential consequences of such a move.

The National Assembly adjourned on December 30 after passing the 2024 budget during a special session.