As the end of the 9th National Assembly draws closer, the House of Representatives and the Senate have commenced their valedictory sessions. The House of Representatives began its own session on Tuesday, while the Senate’s version is scheduled to hold on Wednesday.
The valedictory sessions serve as an opportunity for lawmakers to reflect on their achievements during the 4-year tenure and to say their goodbyes. They also use the occasion to thank their constituents for the opportunity to serve and to bid farewell to colleagues who will not be returning.
In his remarks at the opening of the valedictory session, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, thanked his colleagues and the Nigerian people for the support they had given the House during his tenure. He noted that despite some challenges, the House had been able to pass several bills that would positively impact the lives of Nigerians.
The Speaker also commended the members for putting aside their political differences and working together in the interest of the country. He urged them to continue to do so in the 9th Assembly and beyond.
Similarly, the Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, has expressed gratitude to his colleagues for their support and cooperation during his tenure. In a statement released on Tuesday, Lawan noted that the 9th Senate had been able to pass several crucial bills and make significant contributions to the development of the country.
Lawan also thanked the Nigerian people for their support and urged them to continue to pray for the success of the National Assembly and the country at large.
The end of the 9th National Assembly means that several lawmakers will not be returning to the Parliament when it reconvenes in September. Some of them have already declared their intention to contest for higher offices, while others have opted to retire from politics altogether.
Despite the challenges faced by the National Assembly during the 4-year period, many lawmakers have been able to leave their mark with their contributions to debates and the passage of bills. As the valedictory sessions continue, Nigerians expect nothing less than an emotional but dignified farewell from their representatives.
