CISLAC Urges National Assembly to Prioritise Reforms as 2026 Session Begins

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has urged the 10th National Assembly to prioritise governance, accountability and critical legislative reforms as it resumes activities for the 2026 session, cautioning against early politicking ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement on Monday, CISLAC Executive Director, Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), described 2026 as a pivotal year for both the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration and the current legislature, noting that Nigerians now expect concrete results from policies introduced since 2023.
He said the period marks a stage of maturity for the administration, when policies must begin to deliver visible and measurable benefits, stressing that the National Assembly has a crucial role to play in this process.
CISLAC expressed concern that the proximity of 2026 to the 2027 elections could lead to reduced legislative productivity, a trend historically linked to heightened political activities. The group warned that public anxiety could worsen if plans to hold general elections as early as November 2026 are pursued.
According to Rafsanjani, Nigeria’s current economic, security and governance challenges require a focused, responsive and accountable legislature, rather than one distracted by electioneering or perceived as a rubber stamp for the executive.
The organisation outlined key expectations for lawmakers in 2026, including sustained commitment to plenary sittings, committee work and oversight duties, as well as the speedy passage of critical reforms, particularly in electoral, economic, security and governance sectors. CISLAC stressed that electoral reform remains a major public demand following the 2023 elections.
It also called for stronger legislative oversight to enhance transparency and accountability in budget implementation, public procurement and the management of public funds, warning that weak oversight would further damage public trust in the Assembly.
CISLAC further cautioned lawmakers against allowing the 2027 election cycle to derail their constitutional responsibilities, insisting that Nigerians elected them to legislate and provide oversight until the end of their tenure.
The group reaffirmed its willingness to work with the National Assembly and other stakeholders to advance reforms aimed at strengthening democracy, accountability and good governance in Nigeria.