The Clerk to the National Assembly (CNA), Kamoru Ogunlana, has described the 2026 House of Representatives Open Week as a vital platform for deepening democratic governance, promoting transparency, and strengthening the relationship between Parliament and the Nigerian public.
?
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the week-long event in Abuja on behalf of the National Assembly Management, Ogunlana welcomed dignitaries from across the country and commended the leadership of the House for sustaining an initiative that has become a benchmark for parliamentary openness and civic engagement.
?The event gathered a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, members of the judiciary, lawmakers, executive officials, diplomats, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organizations, development partners, and members of the press.
?Ogunlana noted that the Open Week has evolved into one of the most significant expressions of democratic participation in Nigeria, offering citizens a direct view into legislative processes and a rare opportunity to interact with their elected representatives.
He highlighted that the House of Representatives holds a distinct position in the nation’s governance framework as the chamber with the broadest grassroots representation, drawing members from every federal constituency.
?"The House serves as the closest legislative institution to the people, translating local aspirations into national policies and legislation," Ogunlana stated.
?Reviewing the record of the 10th House of Representatives, the CNA characterized it as a responsive, people-centered legislature committed to tackling national challenges through targeted oversight and proactive lawmaking.
He cited key achievements, including the expansion of the committee system to broaden oversight, the processing of an unprecedented number of public petitions, and the introduction of vital bills focused on economic growth, institutional reform, national security, governance, and social welfare.
?He explained that Open Week helps demystify parliamentary procedures by opening the doors of the legislature to everyday citizens, fostering broader public understanding and institutional accountability.
?"Through initiatives such as Open Week, citizens gain deeper insight into legislative activities, while lawmakers receive important feedback that improves representation and policymaking," he said.
?The CNA commended the leadership of the House under Speaker Tajudeen Abbas for institutionalizing the initiative, while also acknowledging the contributions of development partners in advancing parliamentary democracy in Nigeria.
He urged all participants to engage fully in the week's scheduled discussions, exhibitions, and interactive sessions, expressing confidence that the outcome would further consolidate democratic values and enhance public trust in the National Assembly.
