Nigeria’s National Assembly Embarks on Seven-Week Recess Amid Nationwide Protests

(iexclusivenews) -The Nigerian Senate and House of Representatives have commenced a seven-week recess, set to reconvene on September 17, 2024.

This annual break follows the passage of several significant bills, marking a busy legislative period.

Key Bills Passed Before Recess

Before adjourning, the National Assembly approved several critical pieces of legislation:

Minimum Wage Amendment: A bill amending the minimum wage law, which is expected to be signed by President Bola Tinubu before the end of the week.

2024 Budget Increase: President Tinubu’s request to increase the 2024 budget by N6.2 trillion was approved.

2023 Finance Act Amendment: Adjustments to the existing Finance Act were also passed.

Windfall Tax on Banks: A new bill imposing a one-time 50% windfall tax on commercial banks’ foreign exchange earnings was enacted.

READ MORE: Nigeria Protest: Peter Obi Demands N5bn and Apology from Onanuga

Upcoming Nationwide Protests

The recess comes just ahead of planned nationwide peaceful protests, scheduled to begin on Thursday, August 1, 2024. These protests are expected to address various socio-economic issues facing the country.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio expressed optimism that the minimum wage bill would be signed into law by President Tinubu before the end of the week.

“We are hoping that Mr. President signs the minimum wage bill before Friday,” Akpabio stated.

Despite the recess, some National Assembly committees are scheduled to meet over the next two weeks to continue their work.

Both chambers will officially resume plenary sessions on September 17, 2024.