Gbajabiamila Calls for Greater Public Participation in Legislative Process

Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, has urged Nigerians to take a more active role in the country’s legislative process, saying broader public participation is essential to building a more transparent, accountable and inclusive system of government.

Gbajabiamila made the call on Tuesday while speaking at the opening of the 2026 National Assembly Open Week in Abuja, an annual programme organised by the National Assembly to promote transparency and strengthen engagement between lawmakers and the public.

Addressing lawmakers, civil society organisations, students, development partners and members of the public at the event, the former Speaker of the House of Representatives said democracy can only thrive when citizens understand how the legislature operates and actively participate in its activities.

He noted that many Nigerians remain unfamiliar with the responsibilities of the National Assembly beyond passing laws, stressing that the legislature also plays a critical role in approving government spending, conducting oversight of ministries, departments and agencies, and ensuring the executive is held accountable.

According to him, increased public understanding of these constitutional responsibilities would encourage citizens to engage more meaningfully with elected representatives and demand greater accountability from public office holders.

Gbajabiamila said initiatives such as the National Assembly Open Week provide an opportunity for Nigerians to interact directly with lawmakers, ask questions about legislative activities and gain a clearer understanding of how decisions that affect their daily lives are made.

He maintained that public participation should not be limited to election periods, adding that sustained engagement between citizens and lawmakers would help ensure that government policies and legislation reflect the needs and aspirations of the people.

The Chief of Staff also described the legislature as the arm of government closest to the people because of its representative nature, noting that lawmakers are elected to give voice to the concerns of their constituents.

He urged Nigerians, particularly young people, students and civil society groups, to take advantage of public hearings, constituency engagements and other legislative platforms to contribute to policy discussions and national development.

The National Assembly Open Week is designed to improve openness in the legislative process by allowing citizens to observe parliamentary activities, interact with legislators and gain a better understanding of the workings of the National Assembly. The initiative also seeks to build public trust in the legislature through greater transparency and civic engagement.