Plenary proceedings of the House of Representatives for Wednesday, December 15th, 2021

The Speaker of the House, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila presiding.

After leading the opening prayer and the National Pledge, the Speaker approved the votes and proceedings for Tuesday, December 14th, 2021
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MOTION OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE

1. Rep. Leke Abejide moved a motion on the need to stem the bank robberies in Kogi State and ensure the safety of people in the State and it was seconded by Rep. Abdullahi Halims.

Leading the debate Rep. Abejide bemoaned the wastage of lives and properties during these incessant robberies that have become too rampant in Kogi State, especially the Yagba area where he represents. Rep. Abejide also expressed worry about how the robbery operations take place for hours without a response from security agencies and their operatives. He stated that this has emboldened the criminals who have made their operations more widespread and rampant. He called on the relevant security agencies of government to ensure more proactive measures are taken to ensure the halt of such illicit activities henceforth, with the Yuletide period when more people will be around for the festivities is fast approaching.

The motion was voted on and adopted.
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PRESENTATION OF BILLS
1. Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Ondo (Establishment) Bill, 2021 (HB. 1770) (Rep. Abiola Peter Makinde) – First Reading

2. National Information Technology Development Agency Act (Amendment) Bill, 2021 (HB. 1778) (Rep. Ganiyu Abiodun Johnson) – First Reading

3. Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (Establishment Etc) Act (Repeal) Bill, 2021 (HB. 1781) (Rep. Oluwole Oke) – First Reading

4. Federal Capital Territory Area Councils Audit Bill, 2021(HB. 1782) (Rep. Oluwole Oke) – First Reading

5. National Entrepreneurial Development Institute (Establishment) Bill, 2021(HB. 1783) (Rep. Chinedu Ogah) – First Reading

6. National Institute for Hypertension and Diabetics Research and Treatment (Establishment) Bill, 2021(HB. 1784) (Rep . Chinedu Ogah) – First Reading

7. National Apprenticeship Training Institute (Establishment) Bill, 2021(HB. 1785) (Rep. Abiola Peter Makinde) – First Reading

8. Federal Institute of Arid and Climate Studies, Mafa, Borno State (Establishment) Bill, 2021(HB. 1786) (Rep. Ibrahim Mohammed Bukar) – First Reading

9. Investments and Securities Act (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2021(HB. 1787) (Rep. Ibrahim Babangida) – First Reading

10. Federal University of Tourism, Wamba (Establishment Bill, 2021(HB. 1788) (Rep. Usman Abdulkarim) – First Reading.
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PRESENTATION OF REPORT

Committee on Telecommunications:
Rep. Akeem Adeniyi Adeyemi:
“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Telecommunications on the issue from the Statutory Revenue Fund of the Nigerian Communications Commission, the Total Sum of (₦633,393,283,000.00) Six Hundred and Thirty–Three Billion, Three Hundred and Ninety-Three Million, Two Hundred and Eighty–Three Thousand Naira, only of which the sum of N86,242,952, 000. 00 (Eighty–Six Billion, Two Hundred and Forty–Two Million, Nine Hundred and Fifty–Two Thousand Naira) only is for Recurrent Expenditure, the sum of N30,336,144, 000.00 (Thirty Billion, Three Hundred and Thirty–Six Million, One Hundred and Forty–Four Thousand Naira) only is for Capital Expenditure, the sum of N42,445,864,000.00 (Forty–Two Billion, Four Hundred and Forty–Five Million, Eight Hundred and Sixty–Four Thousand Naira) only is for Special Projects while the sum of N7,500,000 (Seven Billion Five Million) Naira only is for transfer to the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), N466, 868, 323, 000.00 (Four Hundred and Six–Six Billion, Eight Hundred and Sixty–Eight Million, Three and Twenty–Three Thousand Naira) only will be transferred to the Federal Government of Nigeria, and the sum of N8,824,847,408 Eight Billion (Eight Hundred and Twenty–Four Million, Eight Hundred and Forty Seven Thousand, Four Hundred and Eight Naira) only is for the Budget of the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) for the period ending on 31 December, 2022” (Pursuant to Order 18, Rule 91 (2) (c) and (h) of the Standing Orders of the House of Representatives).

The report was laid following a motion moved by Rep. Adeyemi Akeem and seconded by Rep. Ifeanyi Momah.
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ORDERS OF THE DAY

BILLS
1. A Bill for an Act to Prohibit Chemical and Biological Weapons and Establish National Authority for the effective Implementation of the Chemical and Biological Weapons Conventions in Nigeria; and for Related Matters (HB. 731) (Rep. Abdulrazak Sa’ad Namdas) – Second Reading.

Debate
Rep. Namdas moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Rep. Segun Odebunmi.

The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Justice, as well as Treaties, Protocol and Agreements.

2. A Bill for an Act to Amend the National Emergency Management Agency Act, Cap. N34, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to Provide for the Recruitment, Training, Equipping of Volunteers in Disaster Management; and for Related Matters. (HB.1481) (Rep. Kwamoti Bitrus La’ori) – Second Reading.

Second reading of the Bill stepped down by leave of the House

3. A Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as Amended) to Enlarge the Jurisdictions of the Sharia Court of Appeal of the Federal Capital Territory and States Sharia Courts of Appeal; and for Related Matters (HB. 1312) (Rep. Abdullahi Balarebe Salami) – Second Reading.

Debate
Rep. Salami moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Rep. Aisha Dukku. Rep.

Salami in leading the debate stated the Bill seeks to maximize justice delivery in the Sharia justice system. He stated that the expansion of the jurisdiction of the court is to ensure its functions reflect current worldwide features of the Sharia Justice delivery system.

Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu stated that members needed to know the extent of the enlargement since members do not have details of the Bill.

The Speaker of the House, asked for the details to be made available for members before it goes to the public hearing so that honourable members can contribute constructively.

The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the special Ad-Hoc Committee on the Review of the Constitution.

4. A Bill for an Act to Establish Food Processing and Preservation Centre, Osi Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State which shall Collate, Process, Preserve Agricultural Produce into finished or Semi-Finished Goods, ensure Food Security in Nigeria; and for Related Matters (HB. 1624) (Rep. Abdulraheem Tunji Olawuyi) – Second Reading.

Debate
Rep. Olawuyi moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Rep. Taiwo Oluga.

Rep. Olawuyi in leading the debate stated that the Bill seeks to ensure Nigeria exports qualitative agricultural products that will lead to the generation of funds and foster better trade relationships with other nations. This will also ensure Nigerian agricultural exports are not returned as was done in the past. These he stated were shameful occurrences capable of downgrading trust in Nigerian export produce.

The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions.

5. A Bill for an Act to Establish Solid Minerals Development Commission in the Federal Republic of Nigeria; and for Related Matters (HB. 196) (Rep. Simon D. Mwadkwon) – Second Reading.

Debate
Rep. Mwadkwon moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Rep. Mayowa Akinfolarin.

The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Solid Mineral Development.

6. A Bill for an Act to Establish Federal Tertiary Teaching Hospitals Development Tax Fund for Rehabilitation, Restoration, and Improvement of Healthcare Delivery System in Nigeria; and for Related Matters (HB. 1639) (Rep. Sani Nazifi) – Second Reading.

Debate
Rep. Nazifi moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Rep. Nasir Ali Ahmed.

The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Health Institutions.

7. A Bill for an Act to Provide for Establishment of Federal Institute of Aviation Engineering and Technology, Oghara, Delta State; and for Related Matters (HB 1646) (Rep. Igbakpa Ben Rollands) – Second Reading.

Debate
Rep. Igbakpa moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Rep. Anthony Efe Afe.

The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Aviation.
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MOTIONS
8. Call for Expansion of Facilities at Osubi–Warri Airport:
Rep. Oberuakpefe Anthony Afe:

The House:

Notes that the Osubi–Warri Airport is an important facility that was privately owned, operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited and is located at Osubi Community in Okpe Local Government Area of of Delta State;

Also notes that the airport was built to ease air movements and attract commercial activities to enhance the economic development of the area;

Worried that the Osubi–Warri Airport operated for several years until its operators became incapable of running it, leading to termination of the contract in February 2020 by the Management of the Civil Aviation Authority;

Recalls that in February 2021, the House passed a resolution that the Ministry of Aviation should ensure the re-opening of the Osubi–Warri Airport;

Aware that the Federal Government has approved the re-opening of the Osubi–Warri Airport for operations in response to the call and plight of the people, which is a welcome development;

Convinced that the expansion of the runway will accommodate bigger Aircrafts which will, in turn, boost the commercial activities in the oil–rich areas considering the volume of passengers that ply the Lagos-Warri-Abuja routes as the present passenger Aircraft is not sufficient;

Appreciates President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR), Delta State Governor His Excellency, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Authur Okowa, the Minister of Aviation, the Management of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN)for re-opening of the Osubi–Warri Airport;

Resolves to:

(i) Urge the Ministry of Aviation and other relevant Agencies to commence the expansion of the facilities at the Airport to accommodate bigger Aircrafts that will increase the economic activities of Warri and its environs;

(ii) mandate the Committee on Aviation to ensure compliance.

Debate
Rep. Anthony Afe moved the motion on the call for the expansion of facilities at Osubi–Warri airport and it was seconded by Rep. Abdulganiyu Johnson.

The motion was voted on and adopted.

9. Need for Continuous Training and Retraining of Teachers in Nigeria:
Rep. Emmanuel Ukpong-Udo:

The House:

Notes that the Federal Ministry of Education is responsible for establishment and maintenance of minimum standards in Primary and Secondary schools across the Federation;
Worried that the current standard of education in government-owned schools does not equip the pupils and students to compete effectively in the modern age of science and technology and to raise a creative generation of entrepreneurs that will be self-sufficient;

Also worried that even when the curriculum is appropriately reviewed to promote STEM education, the teachers are not trained and sensitized to teach same;

Cognizant of the need to engage the Primary and Secondary School Teachers on a continuous training and retraining to enhance their capacity and productivity to be in line with modern day realities;

Resolves to:

Mandate the Committees on Basic Education, and Science and Technology to address the issues of falling standards of education in Government-owned schools to promote STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education and ensure the training and retraining of Teachers across the Federation.

Debate
Rep. Emmanuel Udo moved the motion on the need for continuous training and retraining of teachers in Nigeria and it was seconded by Rep. Abdulganiyu Olododo.

The motion was voted on and adopted.

10. Need to Stop Exorbitant Charges for Mandatory Attachment Programe for Foreign Trained Medical and Dental Graduates:
Rep. Solomon Bulus Maren:

The House:

Notes that on December 1, 2021, the Leadership Newspaper publicised the details of requirements for the mandatory six-month attachment programme for foreign-trained Medical and Dental/Graduates including the sum of Nine Hundred Thousand Naira (N900,000) and One Million, Four Hundred Thousand Naira (N1,400,000) as charges by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) for citizens and foreign graduates respectively.

Also notes that the aforementioned figures exclude accommodation additional charges of two hundred thousand Naira (N200,000) for Dental Graduates, which are all payable to the institution’s account;

Further notes that the exorbitant charges imposed on foreign-trained Medical and Dental Graduates are a major requirement before they can be allowed to attend the mandatory six months’ attachment programme which makes them eligible to sit for the MDCN pre-registration examination;

Concerned that the foreign-trained graduates are coming from where the profession is not only highly paid for but also sought after, hence, the move may discourage them from coming back to the country to practice;

Also concerned that the country has only about 4,8000 Medical and Dental Practitioners, which is inadequate, and may continue to reduce as a result of such irrational impositions by the governing bodies;

Worried that the efforts by the Federal Government to boost and improve healthcare delivery through human capital development may be jeopardized if such outrageous charges are not removed, as many intending graduates may not be able to enroll into the council, without which they cannot practice;

Also worried that if deliberate and proactive steps are not taken to check those atrocious charges, the healthcare system will suffer further lack of professionals, thereby increasing medical tourism out of Nigeria and jeopardizing the Federal Government’s efforts at economic recovery;

Resolves to:

(i) Call on the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria to stop the unnecessary and outrageous charges imposed on Medical and Dental Graduates before allowing them to undertake their six months’ mandatory attachment programme;

(ii) mandate the Committee on Healthcare Services to investigate the matter and report back within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.

Debate
Rep. Solomon Maren moved the motion on the need to stop exorbitant charges for mandatory attachment programs for foreign-trained medical and dental graduates and it was seconded by Rep. Abubakar Yalleman.

Rep. Maren in leading the debate expressed deep worry that the exorbitant levies will discourage more qualified foreign-trained dentists from returning home and applying their knowledge for the good of Nigerians. He lamented the already low number of dentists in Nigeria saddled with the burden to cater to the citizens, stressing that the sector cannot suffer more exodus of qualified personnel.

Rep. Ahmed Jaha in his contribution while praising the spirit of the motion; stated that the levies are used to develop the body of dental examinations and practice. He stated that the practice is used to build educational, scientific and specialized sectors and reducing the charges may reduce their impact and effectiveness.

The Speaker of the House, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila reminded Rep. Jaha that if locally-trained students are made to pay less than the foreign-trained ones, it could be seen as financial discrimination.

Rep. Frederick Agbedi praised the motion as it seeks to protect the dental health sector in Nigeria. He stressed that the foreign-trained students have already gone through the high cost of foreign training abroad, plus the jobs abroad pay more, so it is in the spirit of patriotism and advantage to the country that makes them come home to apply their knowledge for the development of their motherland. It is, therefore, unproductive to frustrate the aim of enriching the dental health sector of the nation by slamming them with these high levies. He stated that such exorbitant prices should be for foreigners, not for foreign-trained Nigerians.

Rep. Toby Okechukwu while appreciating the concerns of Rep. Ahmed Jaha; stressed that anything that would be exorbitant to Nigerians should be discouraged. He however proposed an amendment stating that it is necessary to first investigate the matter before directing for the outright reduction of the fees.

Rep. Haruna Mshelia informed the House that the joint House/Senate Committee on Health is already working on the issue. He urged for the adoption of the motion so the joint Committee can be further gingered to discharge their duty.

Rep. Dele Gboluga stated that there is a classification between foreign-trained Nigerians and foreigners aiming to practice and the levy should be for foreigners. He however stated that the levies are a global trend for mostly applied for administrative purposes.

The motion was voted on and adopted as amended.

11. Call to Investigate the Non-Functional National Primary Health Care Centers in the Country:
Rep. Sergius Ose Ogun:

The House

Notes that pursuant to section 3(b)(v) of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency Act, the Primary Healthcare Development Agency was established to, among other things, stimulate the technical development of primary healthcare centres on an equitable basis in all Local Government Areas in the country;

Also notes that the Federal Government flagged off the Primary Healthcare Centres revitalization programme in 2017 to refurbish Primary Healthcare Centres and establish at least one functional Centre in each Senatorial District of the country;

Concerned that despite the revitalization programme, only less than 20% of the 30,000 Primary Healthcare Centres in the country are in good working condition, while others are either completely grounded or ineffective in the delivery of primary healthcare services;

Also concerned that most of the Primary Healthcare Centres lack basic healthcare services, essential drugs and services, and infrastructure and are located in unhygienic environments;

Worried that despite the huge resources invested into the scheme by Federal Government, the programme has failed to achieve the desired objectives;
Also worried that the failure of the primary healthcare development programme portends danger to the lives of citizens who cannot afford costly treatments;

Cognizant that rural community dwellers will suffer untold hardship that could lead to mass loss of lives if nothing is done urgently to ensure that the Primary Healthcare Centres across the country work efficiently and effectively;

Resolves to:

Mandate the Committee on Healthcare Services to investigate the non-functionality of the National Primary Healthcare Centres in the country and report back within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.

Debate
Rep. Sergius Ogun moved the motion on the call to investigate the non-functional National Primary Health Care centers in the country and it was seconded by Rep. Sani Bala.

The Speaker, Rep. Gbajabiamila reminded members that primary healthcare is in the purview of the States and not the Federal government. He also stated that the Federal government is involved in so many areas such as housing that is not in its purview, this he stated is a major reason why the federal government is overburdened and finds it hard to discharge its duties. Rep. Gbajabiamila stated that as a Federal republic, all tiers of government need to abide by their functions and duties to the citizenry as is obtained in all republics. He noted that the House needs to look into all such areas where functions are adopted by the Federal government which are not in line with its jurisdiction to make them in line with what is obtained in the constitution.

Rep. Toby Okechukwu stated that the motion came from the attempt by the Federal government to try and revamp primary healthcare instead of concentrating on teaching hospitals, as the primary healthcare system is true, in spirit and letter within the purview of states.

Rep. Shehu Kakale reiterated that the Act establishing primary healthcare should be termed non-existent, as the primary healthcare centers should be as it is under the purview of the local government. He stated that the primary healthcare centers were supposed to be intervention in nature, but truly about 90% are non-functional, even those owned by the Federal government. He stated that the Federal government should focus more on intervention policies for the upgrade of healthcare for Nigerians.

Rep. Yusuf Gagdi urged members to view the effect of the motion not through the constitutionality, but by the effect of the primary healthcare centers on the wellbeing of Nigerians, especially in the grassroots. He expressed concern at the neglect of the primary healthcare centers by State and Local governments, adversely affecting people at the grassroots. He called for a Federal agency that will oversee the channelling of funds and regulation of primary healthcare as is obtained in the education sector of the country so that the centers can begin to function for the good of Nigerians.

Rep. Wale Raji called on the relevant Committees to scrutinize the running and management of the primary healthcare centers so Nigerians at the grassroots are not neglected.

The motion was voted on and adopted.

The House suspended its relevant rules to move a motion to address the need to look into sectors not under the purview of the Federal government, but in which it is involved.

The motion was moved by Rep. Toby Okechukwu and seconded by Rep. Ahmed Jaha.

Rep. Toby Okechukwu in moving the motion stated that the devolution of power makes it pertinent for all tiers of government to ensure they are responsible for what they have been constitutionally allotted to oversee. He called for the setting up of an Ad-Hoc Committee to identify the constitutionality of the various responsibilities being discharged by the Federal government that should not be under its purview and it was seconded by Rep. Shehu Kakele.

The motion was voted on and adopted. Rep. Ben Kalu is to chair the Ad-Hoc committee.

12. Need to Re-construct Alkaleri–Futuk Roads in Bauchi State:
Rep. Musa Mohammed Pali.
The House:
Notes that the Federal Government approved the construction of Alkaleri-Futuk road in Bauchi State to the tune of N35.015 billion naira since December 12, 2019;

Also notes that despite the approval two years ago, the construction work is yet to begin and the road is going from bad to worse;

Concerned that these roads lead to the site where crude oil is found in Bauchi State which attracts the presence of heavy-duty trucks and drilling activities by the Federal Government of Nigeria;

Worried that despite the importance of these roads, they are presently in a state of serious disrepair which causes lots of accidents and loss of human life and wastage of agricultural produce;

Further worried that because of the bad state of the roads, bandits, kidnappers and armed robbers take advantage to make life miserable for road users on a regular basis;

Disturbed that if these roads are not fixed within this dry season, they may be too dangerous to use by the next rainy season and that would hinder the smooth transportation of crude oil, agricultural produce and road users;

Resolves to:

(i) Urge the Federal Ministry of Works to urgently construct the Alkaleri-Futuk roads in Bauchi State;

(ii) also urge the Minister of Works to declare a state of emergency on the and Alkaleri-Futuk roads in Bauchi State;

(iii) mandate the Committee on Appropriations to make funds available for the construction of the Alkaleri-Futuk road;

(iv) also mandate the Committee on Works to ensure compliance.

Debate
Rep. Musa Pali moved the motion on the need to reconstruct Alkaleri–Futuk roads in Bauchi state and it was seconded by Rep. Abubakar Yalleman.

The motion was voted on and adopted.

13. Need to Deploy Policemen to Toro Federal Constituency, Bauchi State:
Rep. Muda Lawal Umar.
The House:

Notes that Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi State, with a landmass of 6,9322km, is arguably the largest Local Government Area in Nigeria;

Concerned that despite its large landmass, only about 70 policemen with limited arms, ammunitions and operational tools have been charged with the responsibility of safeguarding the area;

Also concerned that there has been growing insecurity in Toro since January 2021 as cases of kidnappings, robbery, theft and brutal murders have been on the increase in the area, and the people are living in constant fear for their lives;

Disturbed that even the security men are not left out of the mayhem as reports revealed that a gunman opened fire at the safer highways base of the Nigerian Police in Nabordo, Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi State, which resulted in the death of a Police Inspector;

Cognizant that deploying insufficient policemen with inadequate arms, ammunitions and other operational materials to a Local Government as large as Toro puts the Policemen and those they are meant to protect at the mercy of criminals and insurgents;

Worried that if adequate policemen are not deployed and properly equipped to repel attacks on Toro Local Government Area, the place may become the next hotbed of insecurity in Nigeria;

Resolves to:

(i) Urge the Inspector General of Police to deploy better-equipped policemen to Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi State;

(ii) mandate the Committee on Police Affairs to ensure compliance.

Motion stepped down by leave of the House

14. Need to Address Challenges of Food Security in Nigeria:
Rep. Richard Gbande:

The House:

Notes the continuous insecurity, unemployment, climate change, population growth and low-income earnings by families has caused a negative effect on Nigeria’s food security food plans;

Also notes that according to a world economic report, by the year 2050, the world may feed nine (9) Billion people;

Aware that the United Nations had set ending hunger, achieving food security and improved nutrition, and promoting sustainable agriculture as the second of its 17 sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) achievable by the year 2030;

Also aware that Nigeria’s population is 200million people, and is projected to be about 450million in a few decades;

Worried that the novel Coronavirus COVID–19 Pandemic has shown that dangers lie ahead if we do not begin adequate plans to invest in agricultural production and locally made farms produce;

Also worried that the absence of efficient and valid agriculture model and framework, increase unemployment, and low household income and general standard of living portends great danger to the country’s food security strategy;

Commend the Federal Government for its commitment towards future food security;

Resolves to:

(i) Urge the Federal Ministries of Agriculture and Finance, as well as the Central Bank of Nigeria to put in place adequate measures that will boost food security production in the country;

(ii) also urge Federal Ministries of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Finance as well as the Central Bank of Nigeria to provide a monetary grant for the promotion of National Food Security;

(iii) set up an ad hoc Committee to engage food security experts and recommend a medium, and long-time remedial measures that will promote the nation’s food security strategic Plans;

(iv) mandate the Committees on Agricultural Production and Services and Banking and Currency to ensure Compliance.

Debate
Rep. Richard Gbande moved the motion on the need to address the challenges of food security in Nigeria and it was seconded by Rep. Mufutau.

The motion was voted on and adopted.

15. Need to Investigate the Assassination of Dr. Rabe Nasir in Katsina State.
Rep. Isansi Sallsu Iro

The House:

Notes the media reports that the Katsina State Commissioner for Science and Technology and former member of the House of Representatives, Dr Rabe Nasir, was assassinated in his residence in the Katsina metropolis on Wednesday, 2 December 2021 at night by unidentified gunmen;

Concerned that about the increasing rate of insecurity, especially in the North, however, assassination is a new phenomenon in Katsina and other North-West States of the country;

Worried that the murder of Dr. Nasir has further triggered anxiety and apprehension amongst the people of Katsina metropolis and the state at large as they have been living in constant fear for their lives;

Cognizant of the overwhelming need for security agencies to thoroughly investigate the assassination of Dr. Nasir with a view to bringing the culprits to book and allay peoples fear as regards their safety in the state;

Resolves to:

(i) Urge the Nigeria Police Force to conduct exhaustive investigations into the gruesome murder of Dr. Rabe Nasir and ensure that everyone complicit in the murder is brought to book;

(ii) mandate the committee on police affairs to ensure compliance.

Debate
Rep. Isansi Iro moved the motion on the need to investigate the assassination of Dr. Rabe Nasir in Katsina state and it was seconded by Rep. Ali Taofeek.

The motion was voted on and adopted.

16. Need to Investigate the “Deep Blue” Contract to HSL International Limited:
Rep. Benjamin Okezie Kalu:

The House:

Notes that on July 27, 2017, the Federal Ministry of Transportation, on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria, entered into a contract (the Deep Blue Contract) of $195,300,000 (the equivalent of N59,839,930,000) with a Foreign private company, HLS International Limited (HLSI), for the supply of certain security and surveillance equipment and systems and also for establishing the “Integrated national Coastal Surveillance and Waterways protection solutions with command and control of Infrastructure in the Nation’s Territorial waters”;

Also notes that in addition to the contract sum of $195,300,000, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) agreed to pay the sum of $19,530,000 to HLSI as Management Training Consideration, and according to Appendix 4 of the agreement, both sums would be paid in monthly instalments, over a period of 36 months from July 2017 until June 2020, as further payments were also made as at July 2017 to date;

Further notes that Section 80(3) and (4) of the Constitution of the Federation Republic of Nigeria, 1999 provides that –
“(3) No sums of money shall be withdrawn from any public fund of the Federation, other than the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the Federation, unless the issue of those sums of money has been authorized by an Act of the National Assembly;

(4) No amounts of money shall be withdrawn from the Consolidated Revenue Fund or any other public fund of the Federation, except in the manner prescribed by the National Assembly.”

and therefore, the National Assembly is the only body constitutionally allowed to authorize any expenditure from all public funds of the Federation;

Aware that the National Assembly has neither authorized nor appropriated any monies for the Deep Blue Contract or any monthly expenditures according to the foregoing payment schedule;

Also aware that the 8th House Representatives investigated the Deep Blue Contract following petitions from civil groups that the contract was fraught with sharp practices and that in March 2018, the Committee on Public Petitions recommended an outright termination of the contract for violating Appropriation laws as it was not in the national budget;

Recalls that the Deep Blue Contract has since its execution, attracted public outcry regarding the grave national security implications of ceding the patrol of waterways from the statutory duties of the Navy to a private foreign firm, thereby undermining national sovereignty and security, following which President Muhammadu Buhari terminated the contract in 2018;

concerned that despite the foregoing, the Deep Blue Contract has remained illicitly financed with monies neither appropriated nor authorized by the National Assembly;

Worried by allegations that the Deep Blue Contract has remained serviced using monies diverted from the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (the Cabotage Fund) which was established by Coastal and Inland Shipping ( Cabotage ) Act as a fund strictly for the purpose of providing financial assistance to Nigeria operators to develop indigenous ship acquisition capacity in domestic coastal shipping; and which by Sections 42,44 and 45 of the Cabotage Act, can only be administered under the Ministry’s guidelines approved by the National Assembly solely for Nigerian beneficiary;

Also worried that the payment of N59,839,930,000 made to the foreign company to secure and survey our Coastal waterways is astronomically higher than the annual capital expenditure budget of the Nigerian Navy which was N27.2bn in 2019; 20Bn in 2020, 26Bn in 2021 and approved the proposal of 27Bn in 2022;

Disturbed by allegations that HLSI has purchased more security surveillance equipment that was not in the original contract, thereby covertly using funds meant for the benefit of Nigeria and Nigerians to finance the security acquisitions of a foreign entity;

Also disturbed that the standards of most of the platforms are not good enough which has also violated the contract agreement as it was alleged that some of the “newly procured ships have to be towed by Navy before they could even arrive in Nigerian waters;

Resolves to:

(i) Mandate the Committee on Navy to investigate:
(a) the legality of the Deep Blue Contract agreement whether it is in line with extant Laws and Regulations;

(b) the standards of all platforms purchased to the Nigerian Navy and determine whether they are according to specification(s);

(c) the actual amount of money spent by the government on the Deep Blue Contract.
(d) and any other matter(s) relating to the Deep Blue Contract and report back within eight (8) weeks for further legislative action.

Debate
Rep. Benjamin Kalu moved the motion on the need to investigate the “Deep Blue” contract to HSL International Limited and it was seconded by Rep. Ahmad Badau.

The motion was voted on and adopted.

17. Call for Urgent Investigation into the Abduction of Five Consultant Engineers in Effium, Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State:
Rep. Ifeanyi Chudy Momah:

The House:

Notes that on Wednesday, November 3, 2021, five Engineers from NELAN Consultans, an Engineering Firm, who were supervising the Abakiliki Ring Road Project were abducted at Onu-Nwenewo village in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State;
Also notes that the names and origin of the abductees who are now known as the NELAN 5 are Engr. Nelson Onyemeh from Ihiala in Anambra State, Engr. Ernest Edeani from Nkanu in Enugu East Local Government Area of Enugu State, Engr. Ikechukwu Ejiofor from Umunya in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State, Engr. Samuel Aneke from Nkanu in Enugu East Local Government Area of Enugu State and Engr. Stanley Nwazulum from Amawbia in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State;

Further notes that the project the NELAN 5 were supervising, according to a Vanguard Newspaper report of August 23,2017, is valued at 150 million dollars and financed by the African Development Bank (AIDB), and during its commissioning, the Governor of Ebonyi State charged the people to support State government in providing adequate security for the workers during the eighteen months’ period of the contract;

Concerned that the Ebonyi State government allegedly released a rather premature news of the death and burial of the NELAN 5 to the general public during a security summit organized by the Christian Association of Nigeria, Abakiliki chapter without conssulting with the families of the victims first;

Also concerned that since the alleged press statement by the Ebonyi State Government, which was published in several newspapers, and claims the government was pacifying the affected families, till date, the families of the abductees have allegedly not been formally contacted by the Ebonyi State government;

Further concerned that the Ebonyi State Government has been accused of being complicit in the disappearance of the engineers as the State Governor was alleged to have been hostile towards the consultants and tried severally to interfere in their operations;

Worried that if the true condition of the victims is not properly ascertained, the people’s confidence in the ability of the government to protect them will further deteriorate;

Also worried that further delay in conducting thorough investigations will create more complications as trails may run cold, giving the perpetrators enough time to alter evidences and maybe even escape justice;

Resolves to:

(i) Urge the Inspector General of Police to ensure a thorough investigation into the disappearance of the NELAN 5 Consultants; and
(ii) Mandate the Committee on Police Affairs ensure compliance.

Debate
Rep. Chudi Momah moved the motion on the call for urgent investigation into the abduction of five consultant engineers in Effium, Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi state and it was seconded by Rep. Dagomie Abiante.

Rep. Dagomie Abiante also proposed an amendment to incorporate the committee on national security and intelligence into the investigation.

The motion was voted on and adopted as amended.
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CONSIDERATION OF REPORT (HOUSE IN COMMITTEE OF SUPPLY) Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila chairing:

18. Committee on Telecommunications:
Rep. Akeem Adeniyi Adeyemi:
“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on Telecommunications on the issue from the Statutory Revenue Fund of the Nigerian Communications Commission, the Total Sum of (₦633,393,283,000.00) Six Hundred and Thirty–Three Billion, Three Hundred and Ninety-Three Million, Two Hundred and Eighty–Three Thousand Naira, only of which the sum of N86,242,952, 000. 00 (Eighty–Six Billion, Two Hundred and Forty–Two Million, Nine Hundred and Fifty–Two Thousand Naira) only is for Recurrent Expenditure, the sum of N30,336,144, 000.00 (Thirty Billion, Three Hundred and Thirty–Six Million, One Hundred and Forty–Four Thousand Naira) only is for Capital Expenditure, the sum of N42,445,864,000.00 (Forty–Two Billion, Four Hundred and Forty–Five Million, Eight Hundred and Sixty–Four Thousand Naira) only is for Special Projects while the sum of N7,500,000 (Seven Billion Five Million) Naira only is for transfer to the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), N466, 868, 323, 000.00 (Four Hundred and Six–Six Billion, Eight Hundred and Sixty–Eight Million, Three and Twenty–Three Thousand Naira) only will be transferred to the Federal Government of Nigeria, and the sum of N8,824,847,408 Eight Billion (Eight Hundred and Twenty–Four Million, Eight Hundred and Forty Seven Thousand, Four Hundred and Eight Naira) only is for the Budget of the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) for the period ending on 31 December, 2022” (Pursuant to Order 18, Rule 91 (2) (c) and (h) of the Standing Orders of the House of Representatives).- Committee of Supply.
issue from the Statutory Revenue Fund of the Nigerian Communications Commission, the Total Sum of (₦633,393,283,000.00) Six Hundred and Thirty–Three Billion, Three Hundred and Ninety-Three Million, Two Hundred and Eighty–Three Thousand Naira, only of which the sum of N86,242,952, 000. 00 (Eighty–Six Billion, Two Hundred and Forty–Two Million, Nine Hundred and Fifty–Two Thousand Naira) only is for Recurrent Expenditure, the sum of N30,336,144, 000.00 (Thirty Billion, Three Hundred and Thirty–Six Million, One Hundred and Forty–Four Thousand Naira) only is for Capital Expenditure, the sum of N42,445,864,000.00 (Forty–Two Billion, Four Hundred and Forty–Five Million, Eight Hundred and Sixty–Four Thousand Naira) only is for Special Projects while the sum of N7,500,000 (Seven Billion Five Million) Naira only is for transfer to the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), N466, 868, 323, 000.00 (Four Hundred and Six–Six Billion, Eight Hundred and Sixty–Eight Million, Three and Twenty–Three Thousand Naira) only will be transferred to the Federal Government of Nigeria, and the sum of N8,824,847,408 Eight Billion (Eight Hundred and Twenty–Four Million, Eight Hundred and Forty Seven Thousand, Four Hundred and Eight Naira) only is for the Budget of the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) for the period ending on 31 December, 2022

Details of Framework of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) Budget Proposals for the Year 2022

A
REVENUE PROFILE​
N’000

Licensing Fees​
1,500,000

Annual Operating Levy​
124,000,000

Spectrum Fees​
450,285,214

Numbering Plan​
9,510,000

Admin Charges​
4,400,300

Type Approval Fees
902,000

Sanction Fees
165,000

Sundry Income​
5,000

Transfer from Reserve
1,000,000

FG Intervention for Broadband Infrastructure
41,625,769

Total Revenue
633,393,283
B.
Expenditures
Recurrent Expenditure

Establishment Costs​
1,265,869

Staff Costs​
30,072,345

Personnel Mgt. Cost
11,571,750

Travel Costs
2,469,934

Operational Costs
16,285,472

Administration Costs​
5,970,523

Relocation of Nigcomsat for 5G Spectrum​
10,961,898

Shielding of TT&C Earth Station for 5G Spectrum
1,900,000

Other Spectrum Expenses
5,745,161

Total Recurrent Expenditure
86,242,952

Capital Expenditure​​​

Internal Projects
10,131,533

School Support Programme
15,142,343

Digital Bridge Institute
2,471,700

Consultancies
2,590,569

Total capital expenditure
30,336,144

Special projects

Emergency Communications Centres
5,460,852

Digital Parks
4,600,000

Subscribers Database Management
8,736,350

R&D in Emerging Trends in Telecoms​
892,577

Broadband Infrastructure Development Project
21,321,587

GSM Networks QoS Compliance Monitoring​
1,434,498

TOTAL SPECIAL PROJECTS
42,445,864

TRANSFER TO FEDERAL GOVT.​
466,868,323

TRANSFER TO USPF
7,500,000

TOTAL BUDGETED EXPENDITURE
633,393,283

The sum of ₦633,393,283,000.00 (Six Hundred and Thirty-Three Billion, Three Hundred and Ninety-Three Million, Two Hundred and Eighty-Three Thousand Naira) only is hereby recommended for approval as the Nigerian Communications Commission’s Budget for the Year 2022.

A
REVENUE PROFILE​
N’000

Income from AOL Contribution
7,500,000,000

Accumulated Funds Tender Fees​
1,324,847,408

TOTAL REVENUE​
8,824,847,408
B
EXPENDITURES RECURRENT EXPENDITURE

Employee Costs
1,306,209,964

Operational Costs
481,725,068

Administrative Costs
82,604,560

Board Expenses
50,720,500

Bank Charges
2,500,000

TOTAL RECURRENT EXPENDITURE
1,923,760,092
C
CAPITAL EXPENDITURE

Computers
26,180,000

Office Equipment
39,200,000

Motor Vehicles
130,000,000

Furniture and Fittings
162,579,020

TOTAL CAPITAL EXPENDITURE
357,959,020
D
PROJECTS EXPENDITURE

Connectivity Programs
3,763,609,041

Access Programmes
2,126,193,575

Technical Audit
315,644,680

Institutional Strengthening and
Consultancy Programmes
317,681,000

Consultancy on Assets Swap Valuation
20,000,000

TOTAL PROJECTS EXPENDITURE
₦6,543,128,296

TOTAL BUDGETED EXPENDITURE
₦8,824,847,408

The sum of ₦8,824,847,408 (Eight Billion, Eight Hundred and Twenty-Four Million, Eight Hundred and Forty-Seven Thousand, Four Hundred and Eight Naira) only is hereby recommended for approval as the Universal Service Provision Fund’s Budget for the Year 2022.

Synopsis of the report:
Rep. Akeem Adeyemi stated that the Communication Commission generates enormous funds for the Federal government and now that the 5G will soon be rolled out; even more funds will be generated. He urged members to support the approval of the recommendations of the budget.

Summary of voting: Recommendations A & B voted on and approved.
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HOUSE IN PLENARY
The House reverted to plenary and adopted the report of the Committee of Supply following a motion by the deputy leader of the House, Rep. Peter Akpatason and seconded by Rep. Babangida Ibrahim.
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The House suspended its relevant rules to allow the Speaker of the House chair over the Committee of the Whole following a motion moved by Rep. Abubakar Fulata and seconded by Rep. Gideon Gwani.
________________________________________________________________________________________

CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS (HOUSE IN THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE) Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila presiding:

19. A Bill for an Act to Provide for Establishment of Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo, Benue State; and for Related Matters (HB. 1502)– Committee of the Whole:24/11/2021.

Synopsis of the report:
Rep. Peter Akpatason stated that the Bill seeks to establish the proposed institution for the good health and educational research advancement of those in the region.

Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-32

20. A Bill for an Act to Provide for Establishment of Federal College of Education, Bassambiri, Bayelsa State; and for Related Matters (HB. 1741) (Leader) – Committee of the Whole:8/12/2021.

Synopsis of the report:
Rep. Peter Akpatason stated that Bill seeks to provide for the institution that will promote learning and training for students in the region. He urged members to support it.

Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-33

21. Committee on Health Institutions:
Rep. Paschal Obi.
“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on Health Institutions on a Bill for an Act to Establish Federal Medical Centre, Oghara, Delta State; and for Related Matters (HB. 573) and approve the recommendations therein” (Laid:15/7/2021).

Synopsis of the report:
Rep. Pascal Obi stated that the Bill seeks to establish the proposed institution for the good health benefits of people in the region.

Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-27

22. Committee on Foreign Affairs:
Rep. Yusuf Buba:
“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on Foreign Affairs on the Oversight Visit to the Nigerian Consulate, Atlanta, Georgia, United Sates of America, and the Nigerian High Commission in Kingston, Jamaica and approve the recommendations therein”.

A. KINGSTON, JAMAICA

(i) That the Ministry of Foreign Affairs must, as a matter of urgency and for face-saving measures, lift the ban on the continuation for the construction project, of the Haiti Model School. As the Committee will ensure that investigation of the mismanagement of the funds continues. The above has become necessary in the face of pressure being mounted by the international community on the Nigeria Mission in Kingston and other Nigerian authorities;

(ii) that the Ministry of Aviation and other relevant bodies be enjoined to promote the introduction of a direct flight from Nigeria to Jamaica to service all Caribbean countries. The issue of direct flight introduction should be made part of the agenda of the Bi-national Commission meeting to be hosted by Nigeria;

(iii) that Government should immediately consider providing funds for the building of a minimum of 8-10 terrace duplexes on a land measuring about one hectare with the Chancery building in Kingston, which is not currently utilized, and has caused all Home-based Officers to rent their houses at exorbitant costs to government;

(iiii) that Urgent provision of representational vehicles to the High Commissioner and a utility vehicle for the High Commission should be made as a matter of crying need.
(v) That the Ministry of Foreign Affairs be enjoined to ensure it gives approval to the High Commissioner in Jamaica to utilize the funds available in the Missions coffers to carry out renovations on the Chancery and the residence, while action on the contractual infractions detected continues.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS IN RELATION TO THE NATION’S FOREIGN MISSIONS GLOBALLY
With the benefit of discoveries and knowledge garnered by members of the House delegation for the oversight visits under review, it is the opinion of the delegation that what we have seen in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, and Kingston, Jamaica, are a fair representation of what actually obtains in almost all Nigeria Foreign Missions across the globe.
Bearing the above in mind, the following are recommended

(i) Zero Capital Budget for Missions
From realities on ground, the delegation discovered that over 70% of our Foreign Missions across the world have for several years received zero allocation in their Capital Budget year in year out. As a result of the above, this reality has led to infrastructural and structural decay in each of the Missions;