Today, the Senate is back in session after a seven-week break. They have a lot to discuss, including the 2024 budget presentation, inauguration of committees, confirmation of appointments, grievances over committee assignments, and the consideration of the 2023-2025 Medium Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper.
The Senate has already announced the names of the Chairmen and Vice-Chairmen of the standing committees. This is an important part of their work.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has a few tasks to complete today. He will read a message from President Tinubu, inaugurate the 74 Standing Committees, and confirm recent appointments made by the President.
The Chairmanship positions of 48 out of the 74 standing committees were given to Senators from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The remaining 26 positions were shared among Senators from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and five other minority parties.
The Senate will also need to confirm recent appointments made by President Tinubu, such as two ministerial nominees for the Ministry of Youth Development and the newly appointed Central Bank of Nigeria Governor and Deputy Governors. Additionally, they will consider and possibly approve the 2023-2025 Medium Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper.
Some Senators are not happy with the composition of the committees. According to the rules, no member of the Selection Committee can serve as a committee chairman, and no Senator can serve on more than seven committees.
