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Adopting an Electronic Parliament Model Proposed by the Clerk and Deputy Clerk of NASS

National Assembly's Clerk and Deputy Clerk, Kamoru Ogunlana and Bashir Yero, have each presented arguments for federal lawmaking in the country.

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Federal Lawmakers' Representatives, Kamoru Ogunlana and Bashir Yero, from the National Assembly...
Federal Lawmakers' Representatives, Kamoru Ogunlana and Bashir Yero, from the National Assembly (CNA), have each presented their arguments for the nation's federal legislation.

Embracing the Digital Age: The Case for an e-Parliament in Nigeria

Adopting an Electronic Parliament Model Proposed by the Clerk and Deputy Clerk of NASS

In today's rapidly evolving world, the concept of an e-parliament in Nigeria is no longer a distant dream, but a pressing necessity. This transformative initiative aims to integrate digital technology into the heart of the National Assembly, revolutionizing lawmaking processes and enhancing efficiency.

Overcoming Historical Hurdles

Inevitably, this digital transition faces legal barriers that have hindered progress in the past. For instance, the old Evidence Act (1945) prohibited the use of digital evidence, putting a damper on the adoption of e-parliament technologies. However, the new Evidence Act of 2004 has begun to clear the path by eliminating this roadblock[2][3].

The Vast Advantages of an e-Parliament

Reduced Paperwork

With e-parliament, the mountains of paperwork common in legislative processes can be significantly reduced. This environmental-friendly shift not only improves the efficiency of lawmaking but also reduces the strain on natural resources[2][4].

Remote Participation

A key advantage of e-parliament is the ability for lawmakers to attend sessions and participate in votes remotely, allowing for greater flexibility and inclusivity[2][4].

Improved Public Access

Citizens can easily access parliamentary records and proceedings online, promoting transparency and accountability[4][5].

Streamlined Efficiency

Digital processes can greatly reduce legislative delays, speeding up the lawmaking process and ensuring more timely responses to the needs of the nation[5].

Paving the Way for e-Parliament Implementation

Institutional Alignment

A strong commitment from the National Assembly is essential to drive the adoption of e-parliament technologies, ensuring that all stakeholders share the same vision[1][3].

Collaborative Partnerships

Organizations like the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) and international bodies like the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) can provide invaluable support and expertise throughout the implementation process[3][5].

Infrastructure Development

Investing in robust IT infrastructure is crucial to support the e-parliament's digital operations[5].

Training and Capacity Building

Through extensive training, lawmakers and staff will be able to harness the full potential of digital technologies to their utmost benefit[4].

The transition to an e-parliament in Nigeria's National Assembly is undeniably a daunting task, fraught with challenges related to infrastructure and legacy laws. Yet, the potential benefits in terms of efficiency, transparency, and environmental sustainability make this journey a necessary one. With strategic planning, collaborative partnerships, and a steadfast commitment to innovation, the e-parliament can become a cornerstone of modern, effective lawmaking in Nigeria.

  1. The Senate, in collaboration with the House of Representatives, must address the historical hurdles that hamper the adoption of e-parliament technologies, such as the outdated Evidence Act (1945).
  2. Tinubu, a key political figure, could play a significant role in advocating for the new Evidence Act of 2004, further clearing the path for e-parliament technologies.
  3. In the face of COVID-19, an e-parliament in Naija (Nigeria) would enable parliamentarians to attend sessions remotely, ensuring the continuity of policy-and-legislation activities.
  4. An e-parliament would significantly reduce paperwork, making the legislative processes more eco-friendly and less burdensome.
  5. The People's Democratic Party (PDP) and other political groups should strongly support the implementation of e-parliament, recognizing its potential to improve transparency and accountability in the general-news.
  6. Ogunlana, a parliamentary official, can be instrumental in driving the adoption of e-parliament through the proposed digital transformation, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of parliamentary operations.
  7. In Abuja (Nigeria's capital), the Parliament, along with PLAC and the FCDO, should forge collaborative partnerships to navigate the complexities of implementing e-parliament in Nigeria.
  8. Building robust IT infrastructure, ensuring adequate training, and securing the necessary resources are crucial steps for the successful implementation of an e-parliament in the Nigerian parliament (PLAC, reps, senate, and PLC).

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