The leadership of the 8th Senate will tomorrow, Feb. 10, engage the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in an interactive session.

This, it said, is to get their observations and input into the 2016 Appropriation Bill, which is now being considered by the National Assembly. It also explained that the engagement is in fulfillment of its pledge to make all legislative activities of the National Assembly open to all Nigerians.

According to a statement from the Media Office of the Senate President, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki, this maiden edition of the interactive session is meant to create an opportunity for Labour and CSOs to contribute and align ideas with that of the National Assembly in passing an inclusive and implementable budget for all Nigerians.

During the session, which is billed to commence by 2pm at the National Assembly, participats are expected to make their observations and input to the ongoing 2016 budget consideration by the National Assembly.

The statement said: “For the first time in the history of the National Assembly, the leadership of both Houses agreed on implementing a Legislative Agenda they set for themselves through various forms of partnerships, collaboration and cooperation with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), development partners and professional bodies.

“This interactive session is an attempt by the Senate to build confidence in the ability of government to address the needs of citizens. It is part of the Senate's quest for effective and efficient use of its legislative resources for timely delivery and passage of the 2016 Appropriation Bill. The Senate has taken cognizance of the urgent need of inclusivity by partnering the CSOs.”

The Senate President, who is also the Chairman of the National Assembly, is expected to chair the session which will be attended by other principal officers and relevant committee chairman of the Senate.

A resolution is expected at the end of the session geared towards strengthening and building a sustainable partnership on annual budget hearings and monitoring between the National Assembly, Labour and the CSOs.

•Photo shows National Assembly Entrance.

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