The Parliament Diary

By Prince Maduka Chukwudi Francis

Today marks the one-year anniversary of Hon. Barr. Harrison Anozie Nwadike’s inauguration as the representative for Isu/Njaba/Nkwerre/Nwangele Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. This milestone provides an opportunity to assess his exceptional performance over the past year, with a focus on his contributions in lawmaking, representation, and oversight.

An Inherited Budget, A Strong Start
Upon his inauguration on January 30, 2024, Hon. Nwadike inherited a fiscal year budget appropriated by his predecessor. Despite not being involved in the 2024 budget formulation, he did not dwell on challenges but swiftly embraced his role, aligning with his colleagues to ensure effective governance.

▫️ LAWMAKING: SPONSORING TRANSFORMATIVE BILLS

Within just one year, Hon. Nwadike has demonstrated remarkable lawmaking prowess, sponsoring four critical bills addressing the core issues of his constituency and the nation. These bills are poised to bring long-lasting solutions in agriculture, governance, and emerging sectors.

The bills include:

1.  Nigeria Oil Palm Research and Production Technology Institute Bill (HB 1495)

This bill seeks to amend the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act to establish a research and production institute for oil palm in Njaba, Imo State. It is currently awaiting second reading.
2. Agro-Industrial Parks Bill (HB 1494)
Focused on establishing agro-industrial parks to develop agricultural technology and enhance the role of extension workers and technicians. It is also awaiting second reading.
3. Constitutional Amendment Bill (HB 1585)
Proposes the creation of Isu/Njaba and Nkwerre/Nwangele Federal Constituencies, separate from the current Isu/Njaba/Nkwerre/Nwangele constituency, to enhance local representation. It has been referred to the Constitution Review Committee.
4. Crypto and Related Currencies Regulation Bill (HB 1932)
This bill aims to regulate the growing cryptocurrency sector in Nigeria. It is currently under review.

▫️ REPRESENTATION: A VOICE FOR THE PEOPLE

Hon. Nwadike has been an effective voice for the people of his constituency, addressing critical issues that directly impact their lives. His work includes bringing to the floor of the House motions that highlight urgent concerns:

1.  Urgent Need to Address Flood and Gully Erosion

Moved and adopted on October 17, 2024 (HR/122/10/2024), this motion addresses the severe flooding and gully erosion affecting the Isu/Njaba/Nkwerre/Nwangele Federal Constituency.
2. Review of Agricultural Promotion Policies
Still pending, this motion calls for a thorough review of government agricultural policies in response to economic challenges and food insecurity.
3. Revitalization of Vocational Skills Acquisition Centres
Adopted on November 19, 2024 (HR/168/11/2024), this motion advocates for the revitalization of vocational training centers under the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) to better equip Nigerians for the workforce.
4. Investigation of Gas Flaring Compliance
Ongoing, this motion seeks to investigate the safety standards in gas flaring operations to protect oil-producing communities.

These motions underscore Hon. Nwadike’s commitment to addressing pressing issues such as erosion, agricultural challenges, and the need for improved vocational training and environmental protection.

▫️ OVERSIGHT FUNCTIONS

Hon. Nwadike has been an active participant in oversight functions within the House, playing key roles in various committees. His commitment to ensuring the effective implementation of government policies has been commendable. Regarding his oversight functions, Hon. Nwadike has played an instrumental role in national matters. As the Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Safety Standards and Regulations, he was unanimously nominated to serve as Chairman of the Caretaker Committee for the Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria (ISPON). During this period, he successfully supervised the ISPON Unification Conference, the Annual General Meeting (AGM), and elections that resulted in the appointment of a new unified President, Vice President, and 10 Board Members. Under his leadership, a substantive registrar was also appointed in line with the ISPON Act of 2014.

▫️ HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT: EMPOWERING THE PEOPLE.

In his first year, Hon. Nwadike has placed significant emphasis on human capital development. He has sponsored and organized skill and vocational training programs for thousands of his constituents, equipping them with valuable skills and providing them with startup funds to launch their businesses. Furthermore, he has facilitated the employment of several constituents into federal government jobs, offering them sustainable livelihoods.

▫️ ECONOMIC RELIEF AND SUPPORT.

In response to the ongoing economic challenges, Hon. Nwadike has distributed various food items to constituents to mitigate the effects of hardship. Additionally, he has provided fertilizers to farmers within his constituency, promoting local agriculture and supporting food security.

▫️ ADVANCING HEALTHCARE

In the area of healthcare, Hon. Nwadike organized a free medical outreach, providing essential drugs to constituents in need, further demonstrating his commitment to their well-being.

Hon. Barr. Harrison Anozie Nwadike’s first year in office has been marked by dedication, innovation, and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of his constituents and Nigerians at large. His efforts in lawmaking, representation, oversight, and human capital development reflect his deep sense of responsibility and his drive to make a lasting difference.

As he continues his service, Hon. Nwadike remains focused on delivering impactful results, ensuring that his people are well-represented and empowered for a brighter future.

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