As Nigeria celebrates 25 years of uninterrupted democratic governance, the National Assembly is preparing to host President Bola Tinubu.
This significant event underscores the country’s commitment to maintaining a stable democratic process since the return to civilian rule in 1999.
According to reports from Vanguard, lawmakers were seen arriving at the House of Representatives chamber, which is the venue for the joint session on Wednesday morning.
Despite some confusion stemming from conflicting statements made by two presidential spokesmen, preparations have proceeded smoothly.
Security measures are stringent, with staff being thoroughly screened before gaining entry to the complex. The assembly complex itself has been spruced up for the occasion, featuring a welcoming banner prominently placed at the entrance to the White House, the area housing both legislative chambers.
Additionally, banners showcasing past and present leaders of the Senate and House of Representatives are prominently displayed, adding a touch of historical reverence to the celebration.
Recall that, on Tuesday, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed that the president would address a joint session of the National Assembly on Wednesday.
Onanuga emphasized that Tinubu would not be broadcasting to the nation to mark his first anniversary in office.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not broadcast to the nation on Wednesday to celebrate his first anniversary as the leader of Nigeria. Instead, the President will address a joint session of the National Assembly, which has lined up a program to commemorate 25 years of the nation’s democratic journey at both the executive and legislative levels. At the end of the speeches, President Tinubu will commission the National Assembly Library and Resource Center, now to be known as Bola Ahmed Tinubu Building,” Onanuga stated.
However, a conflicting statement from Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, denied any such plans. Ngelale asserted that the information regarding Tinubu’s address was incorrect and unauthorized.
“Given public commentary concerning the President delivering a speech before a Joint Sitting of the National Assembly tomorrow, May 29, 2024, it is important to state that this information is false and unauthorized as the Office of the President was not involved in the planning of the event,” he said.
