The recently concluded Speaker’s Conference received glowing praise from Hon. Hyacinth Aondona Dajoh, the Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, who described the experience as “highly educational.”
During the conference, Hon. Dajoh emphasized how the interactions and knowledge gained have significantly enhanced his ability to effectively preside over the affairs of the 10th State Assembly.
He expressed gratitude towards the conference organizers, UKaid, and Partnership to Engage, Reform, and Learn (PERL), for providing the opportunity to first-time Speakers. He believes that this exposure will greatly benefit their legislative business.
The objectives of the Speakers Conference were threefold:
- To provide a platform for participants to reflect on ongoing reforms led by the current leadership of the Conference and its partners and review the progress made so far.
- To create an opportunity for new Speakers to interact, share experiences, and establish mechanisms to sustain the gains made by the previous Assembly in their respective states.
- To share leadership tips, ideas, and experiences that would further equip participants for their legislative responsibilities.
The conference saw goodwill messages from eminent personalities, including Dr. Chris Pycroft, the Development Director of the UK High Commission, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Sulieman, Speaker of Bauchi State House of Assembly and Chairman of the Conference of Speakers, as well as Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, the Executive Governor of Delta State.
Several distinguished Nigerians presented papers during the conference, with notable contributions from Professor Olabisi Olasheinde Williams, who presented on “Emotional Intelligence and Transformational Leadership,” and Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, the Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, who discussed “Effective Leadership for Emerging Legislatures: Lessons, Challenges, Opportunities, and Recommendations,” among others.
One of the key themes of the technical sessions was the urgent need for financial autonomy and independence for the state Houses of Assembly.
Overall, the Speaker’s Conference proved to be a highly educational and enriching event, empowering participants with valuable insights and tools for their legislative roles.