The Nigerian Senate has confirmed President Bola Tinubu's nominees to the boards of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). This confirmation came after the Senate Committees on Finance and Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters considered and presented reports on the nominees. The Senate's confirmation was done through voice votes, with all nominees for both commissions being approved.
For the Fiscal Responsibility Commission, Dr. Abdullahi Saidu was confirmed as the Executive Chairman. Other members confirmed include Muhammad Asmau Mai-Eka from the North-West, Muhammad Aliyu Makama from the North-Central, and Suleiman Gidado from the North-East. Additionally, Hon. Louis O. Ndukwe from the South-South, Amechi Ugwele from the South-East, and Olaniyi Idowu Onikola from the South-West were also confirmed.
The Senate Committee on Finance, led by its Vice Chairman, Senator Kamarudeen Oyewumi, described the FRC as critical to maintaining fiscal discipline in the country. The committee expressed satisfaction with the qualifications and attestation letters of the nominees, highlighting Dr. Saidu's experience in revenue administration.
For the NHRC, Dr. Salamatu Husaini Suleiman was confirmed as the Chairman. Members confirmed include Huwaila Muhammad Ibrahim, Edmund Chinonye Obiagwu, SAN, Ogunji Chidozie Kingsley, Oluwakemi Asiwaju-Okenyodo, and Professor Adedeji Adekunle. Other members are Ayo Adewuyi, Muhammad Adelodun, Eze Anaba, Maupe Ogun-Yusuf, and Patience Patrick Udoh.
The Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, led by its Chairman, Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire, reported that members unanimously agreed that the NHRC nominees were qualified to strengthen human rights protection in the country. The committee commended President Tinubu for appointing persons of substance to the commission.
Following the confirmation, Senate President Godswill Akpabio congratulated the chairmen and members on their appointments. He emphasized the importance of their roles in promoting fiscal responsibility and protecting human rights in Nigeria. The confirmation of these nominees is seen as a significant step in ensuring the effective functioning of these critical commissions.
The FRC and NHRC play crucial roles in Nigeria's governance and human rights landscape. The FRC is responsible for ensuring fiscal discipline and responsibility in the management of public funds, while the NHRC focuses on protecting and promoting human rights. With the confirmation of these nominees, both commissions can now proceed with their mandates, contributing to the country's development and human rights protection.
Key points
- The Senate confirms President Bola Tinubu's nominees for the Fiscal Responsibility Commission and National Human Rights Commission boards.
- Dr. Abdullahi Saidu is confirmed as Executive Chairman of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission.
- Dr. Salamatu Husaini Suleiman is confirmed as Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission.
