The House of Representatives is set to begin a review of the Company and Allied Matters (CAMA) Act to enhance the workings of civil society organisations operating in the country.
This is part of the Open Parliament and Citizens Engagement component of the legislative agenda being championed by the Speaker Abbas Tajudeen-led 10th House.
At the unveiling of the agenda in November 2023, Abbas underscored the significance of citizens’ participation when he remarked that “The 10th House will ensure that legislative processes are transparent and make our records, proceedings and decisions accessible. When citizens can see how decisions are made, it enhances trust in the democratic process”.
Calls have intensified in recent times for the regulations of activities of CSOs to enable them to play their part in the consolidation process.
The Speaker then pledged to “establish formalised partnership with non-governmental organisations and CSOs that promote transparency, accountability and public engagement”.
To realise this objective, one of the tasks before the lawmakers on resumption of plenary next week is the “Review of CAMA Act and other legislations to remove barriers that hinder CSOs from delivering on their mandate”.
In a telephone conversation with Saturday PUNCH on Friday, a member of the House Committee on Commerce said the House would identify relevant organisations for partnership on ways to promote openness in the conduct of government business.
The lawmaker said, “I am sure you are aware that the House already has a good relationship with such bodies as YIAGA his Africa, Follow the Money, BudgIT and a host of others.
“We will work with these groups and encourage them to assist us in deepening the democratic conversations. As CSOs, their job is cut out for them and we will make sure that we support them to deliver the goods for Nigerians.
