Esther Salifu
The Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC), has officially launched its Legislative Digital Platform a tech-driven tool designed to enhance public access to Nigeria’s legislative processes.
Unveiled at a formal launch event, with support from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), the Legislative Digital Platform is a significant stride toward promoting open governance.
The new platform is tailored to offer real-time insights into the workings of the National Assembly, empowering citizens, civil society groups, researchers, and the media to monitor legislative activities, track bills, and follow committee proceedings from anywhere in the country.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, highlighted the platform’s potential to bridge the gap between lawmakers and the public.
Tajudeen, represented by Hon. Victor Obuzor, stated that the House of Representatives is also adopting digital transformation.
He also addressed public misconceptions regarding legislative funding
“Today, many Nigerians believe, and erroneously so, that the National Assembly is overfunded. Sadly, the National Assembly is the most underfunded arm of the government,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, the Executive Director of PLAC, Clement Nwankwo emphasized the pivotal role of the legislature in a thriving democracy, particularly in providing oversight of the executive.
The initiative, supported by the UK government through the FCDO, reflects a growing commitment to improving democratic governance and institutional accountability in Nigeria.
