The familial relationship between the legislative and executive branches of government would remain, Vice President Kashim Shettima has promised Nigerians.
Shettima provided the promise on Friday when he opened a two-day retreat for the 10th National Assembly (NASS) leadership in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom.
According to the vice president, President Bola Tinubu is still dedicated to preserving Nigeria’s democracy.
Shettima also gave the National Assembly’s leadership assurances of Tinubu’s stated commitment to enshrine democratic ideas and values via cooperative cooperation with all branches of the government.
He claimed that Tinubu’s unmatched democratic credentials—which include legislative experience—would continue to influence his leadership style.
This, he argued, in particular because it touches on upholding the separation of powers, respecting the rule of law, and giving due consideration to constitutional rights.
Shettima characterized the structure of the Federal Government and the National Assembly’s leadership as historic, distinctive, and a key stepping stone to Nigeria’s extraordinary development.
He claimed that this was done more so that Nigerians’ aspirations, despite the current difficulties, would be satisfied.
“For the first time in our history, all the elected heads of our branches of government are produced by the hallowed halls of the National Assembly.
“For the first time in our history, the heart of the executive branch of our government is serviced by the alumni of the National Assembly.
“Both the Chief of Staff and the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President are proud alumni of the National Assembly. The Secretary to the Federal Government is one of us.
“We cannot, therefore, afford to go to war. Not because we are going to overlook each other’s transgressions, but because you are going to engage with those who know the gravity of your work and would never take you for granted.”
Given the makeup of the National Assembly, he claimed, it is imperative that allies close ranks in an effort to provide the Nigerian people with an unparalleled level of democratic pact and service delivery.
“There’s no place in this country where you can find a fraternal bond as enduring as the ones that bind the members of the National Assembly.
Read Also: The Invaluable Value of Music Business
“From converging on Abuja to water the dreams, debate the needs, and mitigate the fears of this diverse nation, we have forged friendships that defy the stereotypes of our differences.
“Term after term, election after election, old and new members return and exit, but the burden of managing a diverse nation has ensured that we cannot afford to tread the path of divisions.”
He further reiterated the need for national cohesion, saying it has become non-negotiable if the country’s potential must be fully harnessed and tapped for prosperity and generality of all Nigerians.
“You have a President and a Vice President who are one of you and recognise the sacrifices you make.
“President Tinubu has, with utter certainty, reassured us that we are not in government to go to war with the National Assembly. We are here to collaborate and march towards shared values.
“Governance is a collective responsibility, not a personal endeavour. Our most significant achievements were attained through cooperation and harmony.
“This is what we seek from you because we are brothers and sisters in pursuit of a country that serves all of us.
Shettima described the NASS as a complete spectrum of human experience.
“This is where you will witness eloquent testimonies of your colleagues in defence of reason.
“This is where you will witness profound debates that will dismantle your age-long assumptions. But, in the end, you will realize we are all bound by our fidelity to the ideals of democracy.”
Earlier, President of the Senate, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, said that the retreat was the beginning of the rejuvenation and a time of reflection and deliberate planning that would determine the direction of legislative efforts.
“We have a huge responsibility as the National Assembly leaders, as the guardians of democracy, it is our responsibility to set the legislative agenda, make sure that our venerable institution runs smoothly.
“Our neighbours are watching us, and they turn to us for leadership and action. We therefore have a chance to establish a strong future direction during this retreat, which is more than just a gathering of leaders.”
Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman, the director general of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies, also praised Tinubu for his ongoing support and growing appreciation of the harmony and independence of the legislative branch.
He declared that the institute was still dedicated to assisting the 10th NASS in enhancing legislative governance.
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, past Senate Presidents Ayim Pius Ayim, David Mark, Ken Nnamani, and Ahmed Lawan were all in attendance.
Others were Mr. Johnnes Lehne, Head of Mission at the German Embassy, and all of the National Assembly’s top officials.
