Senate Leader says democracy demands deeper reforms, praises student loans and tax bills as key legislative milestones.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele has released a comprehensive midterm report outlining the achievements of the 10th National Assembly over the past two years, while calling for deeper reforms to secure Nigeria’s democratic and economic future.
Speaking in a statement commemorating Democracy Day (June 12), Bamidele reflected on Nigeria’s post-military journey and emphasized that the midpoint of the legislative tenure is a time to evaluate progress, assess challenges, and renew national commitment.
“Reaching this midterm milestone is not just symbolic. It’s a call to reflection on our democratic gains,” he stated.
Strategic Collaboration, Not Rubber-Stamping, Driving Results — Bamidele
Addressing public criticism of the legislature being a “rubber stamp,” Bamidele argued that the Senate’s collaborative stance with the executive had produced more results than adversarial politics in previous Assemblies.
He explained that working constructively with the presidency—without compromising constitutional independence—enabled the passage of impactful laws and policies, rather than political deadlock.
Between June 2023 and June 2025, the Assembly passed or amended 108 laws, many of them focused on public welfare and economic transformation.
Student Loan Act and Tax Reforms Named Top Achievements
Among the standout legislative accomplishments, Bamidele cited the:
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Student Loan (Access to Higher Education) Act, 2024 – already enabling over 500,000 students to access institutional and upkeep loans via NELFUND.
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Tax Reform Bills, 2025 – expected to boost investor confidence and raise Nigeria’s GDP to $1 trillion by 2030, pending presidential assent.
Surge in Bills, Oversight, and Confirmations
Bamidele reported a notable increase in legislative performance:
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983 total bills introduced (477 in 2023, 506 in 2024 – a 6% increase)
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232% jump in passed bills, from 25 in 2023 to 83 in 2024
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Executive bill approvals doubled, from 13 to 26
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Petitions processed rose from 50 to 80
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215 executive appointments confirmed in the first session
He stressed that effective governance goes beyond legislation, highlighting the Senate’s increased responsiveness to citizen complaints and institutional accountability.
Focus Shifts to Constitutional and Electoral Reform
Looking ahead, Bamidele said the Senate’s focus would include:
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Stabilizing fiscal and monetary policy
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Reducing inflation
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Ensuring national security and infrastructure protection
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Advancing constitutional reform to fix long-standing federal imbalances
He confirmed that zonal public hearings for the upcoming constitution review would soon begin, promising an inclusive and transparent process.
Additionally, electoral reform remains a top priority to ensure a stronger, more representative democracy.
“We must work together to build a political structure that reflects our aspirations and protects our democracy,” Bamidele said.
He urged Nigerians to actively participate in the legislative journey.
“We are ready for the road ahead — and we invite all Nigerians to walk it with us,” he concluded.