Date: October 2, 2025
As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence Anniversary, the Hallowmace Foundation Africa extends warm congratulations to the Nigerian people and particularly to the members of the 10th National Assembly on this historic milestone. As we celebrate our nation’s remarkable journey, 65 years of resilience, cultural richness, and continuous democratic evolution. However, anniversaries are not merely for celebration; they are natural moments for sober reflection, critical assessment, and strategic repositioning. It is in this spirit that we invite the National Assembly to reflect deeply on its performance and rededicate itself to its cardinal constitutional responsibilities.
*1 Nigeria at 65: A Legacy of Resilience and Democratic Progress*
Nigeria’s 65-year journey as an independent nation represents a profound story of perseverance through challenges and steady progress toward democratic consolidation. The Hallowmace Foundation Africa recognizes the significant strides made in strengthening our democratic institutions, particularly the National Assembly as the bedrock of our representative governance.
As a foundation dedicated to parliamentary advocacy and good governance, we acknowledge the complex challenges our legislators face in balancing diverse national interests. The National Assembly, established under Section 4 of the Nigerian Constitution and consisting of 109 Senators and 360 Representatives, carries the sacred duty of being the primary voice of the Nigerian people . On this symbolic anniversary, we urge our elected representatives to embrace this moment as an opportunity for renewal and enhanced commitment to national service.
*2 The Legislative Mandate: Three Pillars of Effective Governance*
The Nigerian Constitution grants the National Assembly critical powers to shape our nation’s development trajectory and safeguard our democracy. These responsibilities can be categorized into three fundamental pillars:
*The Three Pillars of Legislative Responsibility*
*1 Constitutional Role:* Current Imperative
Lawmaking, Enacting laws that address pressing national issues and promote sustainable development, by Prioritizing bills that combat corruption, foster economic growth, and promote social justice
*2 Oversight*
Serving as the “eyes and voice” of constituents by investigating government affairs and ensuring proper implementation of laws Conduct rigorous, fact-based investigations to check executive power and ensure efficient use of public resources
*3 Representation* Ensuring all Nigerians, regardless of ethnicity, religion, gender, or region, have a voice in governance, and also Actively promote inclusive governance and legislate for equitable development across all zones
*3 A Call for Reflection: Assessing The Legislative Journey*
As we commemorate 65 years of nationhood, the Hallowmace Foundation Africa respectfully calls upon the leadership and members of the Senate and House of Representatives to engage in sincere introspection regarding their legislative performance. This reflection is crucial for aligning with the expectations of the Nigerian people who elected them.
We pose these critical questions for consideration:
*1 On Legislative Independence:* To what extent has the Assembly exercised independent judgment in reviewing and approving executive proposals? Have you effectively utilized your constitutional powers to prevent rubber-stamp governance and ensure proper checks and balances?
*2 On Oversight Effectiveness:* How rigorous has your oversight function been in investigating government programs, especially those with significant national resource allocation? Are you fulfilling your role as the “eyes and voice” of the Nigerian people by looking diligently into every affair of government?
*3 On Inclusive Representation:* Does the composition and output of the National Assembly truly reflect the rich diversity of Nigeria? With women holding less than 5% of federal legislative seats, far below the 35% target set by the National Policy on Women, what concrete legislative actions are you taking to ensure more inclusive governance?
*4 On National Unity:* Are the laws being enacted and considered truly promoting national cohesion and equitable development, or are they potentially deepening regional and social divisions?
*4 Strengthening Nigeria’s Unity Through Equitable Legislation*
The Hallowmace Foundation emphasizes that Nigeria’s continued unity and prosperity depend significantly on the National Assembly’s commitment to equitable legislation that serves all Nigerians fairly. We specifically call for:
*4.1 Promoting Inclusive Governance and Representation*
*Advancing Gender Equity:* We urge the swift passage and implementation of the Special Seats Bill, which seeks to create additional legislative seats exclusively for women. As noted by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, this bill is “not just a piece of legislation… it is proof of our collective commitment to change the narrative” . Inclusive governance leads to better policy-making and more effectively addresses the multifaceted challenges facing our nation.
*Protecting Marginalized Groups:* Legislators should ensure that all laws are examined through an equity lens, considering their impact on persons with disabilities, youth, and other marginalized communities. This aligns with social justice principles that demand the elimination of systemic barriers to participation and opportunity .
*4.2 Enhancing Oversight and Anti-Corruption Measures*
*Strengthening Anti-Corruption Frameworks:* We commend the National Assembly for its constitutional power to impeach high officials and call for its more vigorous use against corruption . As President Muhammadu Buhari once emphasized, lawyers and by extension legislators should not protect “the looters” but should champion the rule of law and tackle corruption that undermines Nigeria’s economy and governance .
*Conducting Bipartisan Investigations:* We encourage more fact-based, bipartisan oversight investigations into government programs and expenditures. Effective oversight, as practiced through proper committee work, can achieve significant policy reforms, better allocate taxpayer money, and provide needed checks and balances across government .
*4.3 Ensuring Equitable Resource Allocation*
The National Assembly must leverage its “power over Nigeria’s National Treasury” to ensure that national resources are distributed fairly across all states and regions . This is essential for addressing developmental disparities and promoting balanced national growth that strengthens our collective unity.
*5 Conclusion: A Unified Call for Legislative Excellence*
On this 65th Independence Anniversary, the Hallowmace Foundation reaffirms its commitment to strengthening legislative institutions, promoting democracy consolidation, and advocating for good governance in Nigeria. We recognize the National Assembly’s crucial role in our democracy and stand ready to support its members through specialized advocacy programs, workshops, and strategic engagements that provide robust interface between legislators and the citizens they serve.
The journey to a more perfect union is continuous. As our nation advances in age, may it also advance in wisdom, justice, and equitable development. We call upon the 10th National Assembly to seize this historic moment to correct past errors, strengthen its floors, and rise to its full potential as the true embodiment of the wisdom and will of the Nigerian people.
*About Hallowmace Foundation Africa:*
Hallowmace Foundation Africa is a communication and advocacy organization focused on promoting the legislature, democracy, and good governance in Nigeria and beyond. Through specialized advocacy programs, seminars, workshops, and conferences, the Foundation works to strengthen the institution of the legislature and promote democracy consolidation in Africa.
*Signed:*
– Amb. Anderson Osiebe
*Executive Director,* Hallowmace Foundation Africa
– Amb. Oguh Hyginus John
*Head, Public Communications Desk,* Hallowmace Foundation Africa
