Reps ask FG to prioritize payment of judgement debts with promisory notes

.Pay tribute to Nigerian teachers

Jonas Ezieke, Abuja

The House of Representatives on Thursday asked the Federal Government to ensure the proper payment of top judgement debts incured by Ministries, Departments and Agencies MDAs of government through the issuance of promisory notes for United States Dollars USD 556,754,584.32, GB398,526.17 and N226,281,801,881.64
The House further mandated the Committee on Aids, Loans and Debt Management and Justice to investigate the process of issuing promisory notes to government agencies and report back for further legislative action.
The resolution was sequel to the adoption of a motion moved by Hon (Arc) Lanre Okunlola representing Sulurere II Federal Constituency of Lagos State on the matter on the floor of the House at plenary.
Debating the motion, Hon.Okunlola noted that there is urgent need for the government to resolve the top priority judgement debts incured by MDAs through the issuance of promisory notes for USD,556,754,584.31, GB398,526.17 and N 226, 281, 801,881.64.
He said he is aware that various MDAs of government have incured substantial judgement debts totalling the sum of USD 556,754, 584.81, GB 98,526.17 and N226.281.801,881.64.
The Lagos All Progressives Congress, APC born lawmaker expressed concerns over the situation noting that these judgement debts are top priority obligations that require prompt resolution to ensure financial stability and reputation of government.
He argued that the payment of these debts is essential to address these debts in a responsible and transparent manner.
Consequently, the House presided by the Deputy Speaker Hon.Benjamin Kalu without further debate unanimously adopted the motion with a voice vote.
He also asked that the relevant House Committee do conduct proper investigation into the matter and report back to the parliament for necessary legislative action on it without delay.

Pay tribute to Nigerian teachers
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives on Thursday said that it would use legislative interventions to partner with the executive arm to better the lives of teachers in the country.
The Deputy Speaker Hon. Benjamin Kalu, stated this during a special session of the green chamber to pay tribute to Nigerian teachers as they celebrate International Teachers’ Day.
Kalu observed that bettering the lot of teachers would have multiplier effects on the nation’s education system.
“For all the teachers out there, we commend you for what you are doing. When I was growing up, I was told that your reward is in heaven. I’m praying that you start reaping your rewards from here on earth.
“And through legislative interventions, we are going to partner with the executive to make sure that we better the lots of teachers, who are trying to make sure that we raise a generation that would help in nation building.
A member from Yobe State Hon.Khadija Bukar-Abba, saluted Nigerian teachers for their sacrifice, patience and endurance.
Hon.Clement Jimbo from Akwa Ibom State, described teachers as strategic assets to any country and should be recognised for their impact on the society.
The lawmakers praised the dedication, patience, and passion exhibited by educators in classrooms nationwide, highlighting the immeasurable impact they have on shaping the future leaders of the country.
Recognizing the challenges faced by teachers, the lawmakers also proposed a resolution to increase funding for professional development programs, classroom resources, and teacher retention initiatives.