NASS, UK Govt pledge to strengthen framework to guide public institutions 

By Collins Yakubu-Hammer

The National Assembly and the UK Government have promised to support the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu  on Policy and Coordination, Hajia Hadiza Usman, in implementing the new Draft National Policy Development and Management Framework.

They made the pledges at a Stakeholders’ Validation Session on the Draft National Policy Development and Management Framework on Tuesday in Abuja.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio, in his remarks said that the Upper Chamber of the National Assembly stands not as a mere observer, but as a s

ecretary, guiding the principles of sound governance, holding the executive to account, and forging a legislative foundation upon which policies and programmes of government must rest.

Akpabio was represented at the event by the Deputy Chief Whip, Sen. Onyekachi Nwebonyi.

“We shall not be passive, we shall not be indifferent, we shall match every executive ambition with legislative purposes. All the effort was to give Nigerians the desired good governance that we promised,” Akpabio said.

He congratulated Usman for putting up the programme.

Similarly, the Speaker  Tajudeen Abbas represented by Rep. Amobi Ogah commended Usman for the team work that culminated to the draft framework.

According to him, the project is born out of the need to align all policies and programmes of ministries, departments, and agencies of the government to the vision of Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“Policy is the hallmark of every responsible government; It is a course of action that determines the direction of the government in alignment with the expectations of the people.

“Good governance is anchored on policies that impart positively on the life of the people and every arm of government and branches thereof.

“Policy guidelines allow for different arms and branches of government to work in synergy to promote positive response to the needs of the people.

“The guide is a parameter that measures and ensures that all policies and programmes of the executive arm of government, with the legislative support of the National Assembly, are tailored to address identified challenges,” he said.

Also speaking, the British High Commissioner represented by the Head of  Governance and Stability, Mr William Robinson said the draft framework was  an opportunity for Nigeria to enhance its ability to deliver on the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“It is also an opportunity to strengthen that vital, important social contract between Nigeria and her citizens.

“Usman, whose dedication in spearheading critical governance reforms such as improved policy management has been exemplary. Reforms like these require a whole-of-government approach.

“I express my appreciation to Nigeria’s leadership; the President, Vice President, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, and indeed the Head of the Civil Service, for their important role in institutionalising policy management reforms.

“I would like to reassure you that the UK will be there with you and standing by you. We are ready to support you in the implementation of the Policy Management Guide, through technical assistance, whenever and wherever we are invited to do so,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)