Reps advances bill requiring ministerial portfolios in nomination list
The House of Representatives has passed the second reading of a bill mandating the president to attach specific portfolios to ministerial nominations.
The proposed legislation, which seeks to amend sections 147 and 192 of the 1999 Constitution, is sponsored by Eugene Dibiagwu from Imo State.
The bill aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the nomination process by also requiring governors to include the portfolios of commissioner nominees.
Over the years, senators have relied on the professional backgrounds and experiences of ministerial nominees during confirmation hearings, a practice that has raised concerns about its effectiveness.
Many Nigerians have pointed out the challenges this approach poses for meaningful questioning and oversight during the confirmation process.
Kingsley Chinda, the minority leader, expressed strong support for the bill, stating that its passage would allow senators to direct their questions more appropriately during screenings. He emphasized that if the bill becomes law, it should also stipulate that ministers reassigned to different portfolios return to the Senate for further screening.
During a plenary session presided over by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, legislators voted unanimously in favor of the bill, reflecting a collective desire for enhanced governance and accountability.