NSUK Hosts 5th Public Lecture, Speaker of House of Representatives Speaks on "Legislating Under Pressure"

Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK), held its fifth public lecture on Monday, June 23, 2025, featuring a compelling presentation by Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, GCON, Speaker of the House of Representatives.

The lecture, titled “Legislating Under Pressure: The Realities of Lawmaking in Nigeria,” attracted a distinguished audience of academics, political figures, and traditional leaders from across the nation to the University Assembly Hall.

The event was graced by numerous dignitaries, including members of the National Assembly, traditional rulers, chancellors, pro-chancellors, and representatives from the state government.

In her welcoming address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sa’adatu Hassan Liman, a Fellow of UNESCO, ACLS, and FIFPN, hailed the occasion as a significant milestone, emphasizing that the lecture series underscores the university's dedication to fostering intellectual engagement and national discourse. She noted the lecture series' ongoing focus on critical national issues, adding, "Today, by God’s grace, we witness the fifth installment, and the topic is particularly relevant to the wellness of our nation and its political landscape.”

Professor Liman also highlighted the transformative potential of the Speaker’s proposed legislative center, suggesting it could spur economic growth, drive social change, and bridge the gap between education and national development.

His Excellency, Governor of Nasarawa State and visitor to the University Engr. Abdullahi A.Sule, represented by the Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology Dr. John D.W. Mamman, expressed appreciation for the Speaker's presence and his insightful presentation. Dr. Mamman affirmed the state government’s commitment to the university's growth and acknowledged that the lecture illuminated the complexities and challenges inherent in the legislative process.

In his lecture, Rt. Honorable Tajudeen Abbas (PhD, GCON) described his topic as timely and pertinent, addressing the evolving responsibilities of lawmakers within a federal democracy. “It underscores the tensions and expectations that define the modern Nigerian legislature, where representation now encompasses more than just lawmaking,” he stated.

He identified a key challenge since Nigeria’s return to civilian rule in 1999 as balancing legislative duties with the pressures of meeting constituent expectations. The Speaker also advocated for constructive accountability from the media, stressing the importance of responsible journalism and legislative independence. “The media must hold lawmakers accountable, but they must do so responsibly. Legislative independence is vital for effective governance,” he remarked.

Honorable Abbas concluded by offering research-driven policy recommendations to enhance legislative efficiency and public trust. These recommendations included strengthening legislative support services, encouraging public participation in committee processes, and fostering collaboration with anti-corruption agencies.

In his remarks, former Vice-Chancellor and Chairman, Special Lecture Series, Professor Muhammad Akaro Mainoma commended NSUK for organizing what he described as a lecture of national significance. “This public lecture is not just another event. It bridges the gap between academia and policy, shaping academic excellence and national discourse,” he stated, urging attendees to deeply reflect on the Speaker’s insights.

The event concluded with the Speaker Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas making a prouncement to construct a beffiting edifice for the Faculty of Administration to house 4 Departments and also the presentation of an Award of Honour to him in recognition of his outstanding service and commitment to legislative excellence and the Nigerian people. The award was presented by Governor Sule’s representative, Dr. John D.W. Mamman, alongside the Chancellor, Pro-Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and other esteemed dignitaries.