By Anayo Akwitti
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has declared the National Assembly Open Week open, reaffirming the legislature’s commitment to transparency, accountability and stronger public engagement as part of efforts to deepen Nigeria’s democracy.
Declaring the event open on Tuesday at the House of Representatives Chamber in Abuja, Akpabio described Parliament as an institution that belongs to the people, stressing that democracy thrives when citizens are informed, involved and confident in the legislative process.
He said the initiative offers Nigerians an opportunity to look beyond political headlines and better understand how the National Assembly translates the aspirations of the people into laws and policies.
“Parliament was never built to keep the people out. It was built to bring them in, for democracy flourishes only in the confidence of an informed and engaged citizenry.”
The Senate President said openness goes beyond allowing citizens to observe legislative proceedings, noting that every Nigerian, regardless of location or background, deserves representation and a voice in governance.
He urged Nigerians to engage constructively with the legislature, saying public participation is critical to building stronger democratic institutions.
“We invite Nigerians not merely to observe us, but to engage with us; not merely to applaud where they agree, but to challenge us where they believe we can do better.
A Parliament that listens becomes wiser. A democracy that listens becomes stronger.”
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, said the National Assembly Open Week is founded on the belief that an open and responsive Parliament is essential to earning public trust and strengthening democratic institutions.
According to him, the three-day event will feature high-level, people-centred engagements aimed at bridging the gap between citizens, the private sector and policymakers while promoting greater transparency and accountability in the legislative process.
