The National Assembly has adjourned its plenary sessions for the Christmas and New Year celebrations, with both chambers set to resume legislative activities on January 14, 2025.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio made the announcement during Thursday’s plenary session, noting that senators serving on crucial ad hoc committees might be recalled during the break if necessary.
“If there’s a need to call you back in line with legislative practice while you’re on holiday, we will do so. Don’t forget that you’re on reserve. You can be called back anytime if there’s a need so that we can convene on a national interest,” Akpabio said.
The Senate President urged committee members to prepare their reports, including those from ad hoc and conference committees, for presentation upon resumption.
He emphasized the importance of having these documents ready to facilitate a smooth start to legislative business in January.
During his closing remarks, Akpabio extended seasonal greetings to his colleagues, particularly acknowledging Christian lawmakers.
“On behalf of the leadership of the Senate, I want to thank you for your contributions to the Senate throughout the year. We wish you Merry Christmas and very Happy New Year in advance,” he said.
He offered prayers for the senators’ safety and well-being during the holiday period, stating, “No tragedy will touch all your families. You will go and come back in good health. May God be with you and with your families. May you come back to continue the service to your fatherland.”
In the House of Representatives, Deputy Speaker Ben Kalu, who presided over Wednesday’s plenary, announced a similar adjournment.
However, he specifically requested that members of the House Committee on Appropriations sacrifice their holiday to continue work on the 2025 budget.
The legislative break comes as both chambers wrap up their activities for 2024, with plans to resume their constitutional duties in mid-January 2025.
