Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, has been recognized as the most outstanding occupant of the position since Nigeria's return to democratic governance in 1999. This recognition was announced by the Senate Press Corps, a group of journalists covering the National Assembly. They assessed the performance of the five Nigerians who have held the position since 1999 and cited Barau's sponsorship of 49 bills in the 10th National Assembly as a key factor.
Barau's record of sponsoring 49 bills within 40 months, with five becoming law, distinguishes him from his predecessors. The Senate Press Corps highlighted his experience as Chairman of the Appropriations Committee in both the House of Representatives and the Senate as a unique achievement. Additionally, his position as Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament was identified as another significant achievement that sets him apart from others who have held the position of Deputy President of the Senate.
The journalists credited Barau's legislative interventions with facilitating the establishment of several institutions, including the North-West Development Commission, the Federal University of Science and Technology, Kabo, and the Federal Medical Centre, Gwarzo, all located in Kano State. This recognition was presented during an award ceremony, where Barau expressed his appreciation to the journalists for acknowledging his contributions.
Barau described the honour as both an acknowledgement of his contributions and a challenge to deliver more for the legislature and the country. He stated that the award would motivate him to intensify his efforts towards serving his constituents, strengthening the National Assembly, and advancing national development. The Deputy Senate President emphasized that the recognition had placed greater responsibility on him to sustain his contributions to legislative development.
In his remarks, Barau pledged to continue supporting the development of the legislature and initiatives aimed at advancing Nigeria's overall development. He assured the journalists that he would not let them down, nor would he let the Senate, the National Assembly, or the entire legislature down. Barau's recognition as the most outstanding Deputy Senate President since 1999 is seen as a testament to his dedication to legislative service.
The Senate Press Corps' assessment of Barau's performance was based on his achievements in the 10th National Assembly. His sponsorship of 49 bills, including five that have received presidential assent, demonstrates his commitment to lawmaking and national development. The recognition ceremony served as a platform for Barau to reiterate his commitment to serving the nation and its people.
Barau's achievements have earned him accolades from various stakeholders, who see him as a role model for legislative excellence. As the Deputy Senate President continues to serve, his focus on strengthening the National Assembly and advancing national development is expected to have a lasting impact on Nigeria's governance landscape. The award serves as a motivation for Barau to continue delivering exceptional service to the nation.
Key points
- Barau sponsored 49 bills in the 10th National Assembly, five of which have received presidential assent.
- The Senate Press Corps recognized Barau as the most outstanding Deputy Senate President since 1999.
- Barau's legislative interventions have facilitated the establishment of several institutions in Kano State.
