ASABA/Nigeria: Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, has affirmed the commitment of the House to maintain its trailblazing status in legislative practice and procedures among State Legislatures across the country.
The assurance was delivered during his opening remarks at a two-day retreat held in Asaba, the state capital, focused on shaping the draft 8th Assembly Legislative Agenda.
The Speaker underscored the House’s forward-thinking approach, stating, “In the comity of State Legislatures, we are among the first few that have a Legislative Agenda.” He highlighted the importance of this agenda-setting, noting that it builds upon the groundwork laid by the 7th Assembly.
Addressing the assembly, Speaker Guwor expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and commitment from the Honourable Members. He emphasized the unique opportunity of the 8th Assembly to consolidate on the gains of its predecessor and leverage them to formulate a robust Legislative Agenda.
The theme of the retreat, “Building a Sustainable Future for Deltans through Complementary and Proactive Legislative Interventions,” was emphasized by the Speaker as a guiding principle for representatives to ensure the state’s sustainable development through legislative measures. He also stressed the alignment of the Legislative Agenda with the MORE Agenda of Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori.
The Legislative Agenda, as described by Guwor, is envisioned as a policy document that will enhance the relationship between the Legislative and Executive branches, fostering good governance in Delta State.
“The 8th Assembly would come up with a Legislative Agenda that will foster good governance and sustainable development of our dear State via legislative interventions,” Guwor highlighted.
The retreat, facilitated by experienced individuals in legislative matters, including John Mutu and his team, drew commendation from Mr. Mutu. He praised the Delta State Assembly’s commitment to democratic principles, highlighting its pioneering status in having a legislative plan ahead of other states.
Mutu commended the Delta State House of Assembly, stating, “Delta State House of Assembly is among the first in the country to already have a legislative Plan.” He urged the assembly to maintain its position as a leader in legislative practices and procedures among State Legislatures across the country.
The retreat agenda includes group presentations on vision, mission, core values, and the harmonization of the legislative agenda, culminating in the adoption of the revised version of the legislative document.
Key topics to be addressed in the draft agenda encompass Economic Development, Industrialization and MSMEs, Environmental Sustainability, Human Capital Development, Infrastructural Development, Public Service Reforms, Agriculture and Food Security, Enhancing Peace and Security, Inclusive and Participatory Governance, and Strengthening the Parliament.
