By Jemimah Wellington, JKNMedia Reporter
MARKING A significant milestone in Nigeria’s democratic history, the Senate and House of Representatives will hold a joint sitting on Wednesday to commemorate 25 years of uninterrupted democracy in the country.
Joint sessions of this nature are described as very rare, typically reserved for critical events such as the president’s budget presentation, according to a statement issued.
Magaji Tambawal, the Clerk to the National Assembly, also confirmed that President Bola Tinubu will address the nation during this historic gathering, emphasizing the importance of the occasion and formally inaugurating the National Assembly Library.
The event will see the attendance of notable dignitaries including Vice-President Kashim Shettima, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq of Kwara State and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, and George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
In addition to these distinguished guests, prominent figures such as Femi Gbajabiamila, former Speaker of the 9th House of Representatives (2019-2023), and David Mark, former President of the 6th & 7th Senate (2007-2015), will deliver presentations reflecting on the legislative journey of their respective chambers.
The significance of the event is further underscored by the participation of Abdulsalami Abubakar, former Head of State, who will contribute insights on Nigeria’s transition to democratic governance with his paper titled ‘Reflections on the Journey to Democracy.’
The issued statement notes that the joint sitting serves as a poignant moment for Nigeria to reflect on the achievements and challenges encountered over the past 25 years of democratic rule and also reaffirms the nation’s commitment to democratic principles and highlights the collaborative efforts required to sustain and strengthen democracy in the country.
