•National Assembly Complex, Abuja
The National Assembly has commissioned an ultra-modern newsroom designed to strengthen legislative communication, enhance transparency and preserve Nigeria’s parliamentary history.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony yesterday, the Secretary, Research and Information Directorate, Pharmacist Ali Umaru, said the facility would serve as a strategic hub for documenting and archiving legislative activities of both chambers of the National Assembly, reports Daily Independent.
Umaru described the development as “a significant milestone in the ongoing institutional strengthening of the National Assembly,” stressing that the newsroom represents more than just physical infrastructure.
“This is not merely the unveiling of a physical structure,” he said. “It is the unveiling of capacity and the establishment of a strategic communication hub designed to enhance transparency, accountability and public engagement in our democratic process.”
He noted that in every democratic system, the legislature occupies a central role as custodian of representation, lawmaking and oversight, but added that the effectiveness of these constitutional responsibilities depends largely on how well parliamentary activities are communicated to citizens.
“A modern parliament must not only work; it must be seen to work,” Umaru stated.
“It must communicate clearly, accurately and responsibly. The credibility of the legislature is strengthened when citizens are properly informed about its activities and impact.”
According to him, the newsroom will perform four critical roles in advancing the communication mandate of the legislature, with archiving and documentation forming a central component.
“Fourth, the News Room will serve as a centre for archiving and documentation of legislative activities,” he explained.
“Systematic recording and preservation of plenary proceedings, committee engagements, investigative hearings and official communications will strengthen institutional memory, facilitate research and ensure that our legislative history is properly preserved for future generations.”
He said the facility would also enable real-time monitoring of proceedings in both chambers, allowing the Directorate to respond swiftly to issues requiring clarification.
“By closely tracking debates, motions, resolutions and oversight engagements in both Chambers, the Directorate will promptly identify matters requiring official clarification and public communication,” he said.
“Timely press releases and accurate updates will ensure that citizens remain properly informed about legislative developments, with public interest always at the centre of our operations.”
Umaru further emphasized the importance of combating misinformation in an era of rapid information dissemination. “In an era where rumours and misinterpretations spread rapidly, the provision of verified and authoritative information is essential,” he said.
“Through proactive communication, we will safeguard institutional credibility, reinforce transparency and deepen public confidence in the work of the National Assembly.”
He added that consistent and professional reporting of legislative activities would enhance the image of Parliament.
“Consistent, professional and accurate reporting will project the National Assembly as responsive, responsible and committed to democratic governance,” he said.
“By clearly communicating the impact of legislative work on national development, we strengthen the bond between the legislature and the Nigerian people.”
In his remarks, the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, described the newsroom as a strategic investment in information management and staff capacity.
“This newsroom is a strategic investment designed to strengthen information management, improve documentation of legislative activities, and enhance public engagement,” Ogunlana said.
“In an era where communication defines credibility, this facility positions the National Assembly to project its work with professionalism and transparency.”
He added that the initiative forms part of a broader effort to reposition the National Assembly complex as “a centre of pride and national significance,” noting that with facilities such as a chapel, mosque, library, hospital and printing press, the complex is evolving beyond a legislative hub.
Ogunlana also urged staff to cultivate a culture of maintenance to ensure the sustainability of public infrastructure. “In the past, public facilities have deteriorated due to neglect, misuse, theft and vandalism. We must break that pattern,” he said.
“Maintenance is not the responsibility of management alone; it is a collective duty. If we preserve our assets, we preserve our progress.”
The commissioning of the newsroom marks another step in the National Assembly’s efforts to institutionalise effective communication, strengthen transparency and preserve Nigeria’s legislative history for generations to come.
