Advocating for Electronic Parliament Implementation by NASS - Viewpoint of the Clerk and Deputy Clerk
The push for e-parliament in the National Assembly of Nigeria is gathering momentum, as top officials call for the integration of digital technology into the legislative process. Here's a lowdown on this innovative shift, its perks, hurdles, and possible solutions.
The Call for Change
Kamoru Ogunlana, the Clerk to the National Assembly, underscores the urgency of adopting e-parliament, viewing it as a necessity, not an option. This move is part of a broader mission to modernize the legislative process in Nigeria [1][2]. The National Assembly is diving into retreats and discussions to hammer out these changes efficiently [2].
What's in it for Us?
- Minimizing Paper Chase: Transitioning to digital systems slashes the need for physical documents, making workflows smoother and supporting environmental sustainability.
- Remote Parliament: E-parliament lets lawmakers join sessions virtually, boosting access and efficiency.
- Aiding Transparency: Digital records facilitate easier access to legislative info for the public, nudging openness and accountability [3].
- Heightened Security: Although there are security concerns, digital technology can also offer more secure access controls and identity processes [2].
What Stands in the Way?
- Infrastructure: Implementing e-parliament demands robust digital infrastructure, encompassing reliable internet connections, hardware, and software. Installing such facilities could be pricey and tricky logistically.
- Cybersecurity Risks: The digital realm exposes risks like cyber attacks and data breaches, necessitating stringent security measures to safeguard sensitive data.
- Digital Proficiency: Ensuring that all members and employees are digitally savvy is crucial for smooth implementation.
Steps Forward
- Collaborative Planning: Engaging in strategic planning and teamwork with specialists and stakeholders to devise effective implementation strategies.
- Training and Capacity Building: Empowering lawmakers and staff with comprehensive training to ensure comfort with the new systems.
- Technology Partnerships: Banding together with tech firms to design and institute robust digital infrastructure.
- Public Engagement: Boosting public awareness and participation through digital platforms to foster transparency and accountability [4].
In essence, the embrace of e-parliament in Nigeria's National Assembly is a strategic step towards modernizing governance processes, pumping up efficiency, and amplifying transparency and accountability.
- The Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, highlights the importance of adopting e-parliament in Nigeria as part of a broader mission for modernizing the legislative process in the National Assembly.
- One benefit of e-parliament is minimizing the need for physical documents, making workflows smoother and supporting environmental sustainability.
- Baba Tinubu, a prominent political figure, could voice his support for the integration of digital technology into the legislative process, contributing to the push for e-parliament.
- In the Senate, lawmakers could discuss and pass policies that focus on the implementation of e-parliament, furthering the modernization of the legislative process in Nigeria.
- PDP (People's Democratic Party) and APC (All Progressives Congress) reps could collaborate on policies and legislation related to e-parliament, addressing challenges and finding solutions for a successful digital transformation of Nigeria's National Assembly.
