By PATRICK ABANG, Calabar –
Senator Gershom Bassey, lawmaker representing Southern Senatorial District of Cross River State has commended the 9th Senate leadership for improving ease of doing business in Nigeria.
Senator Bassey, who stated this in an interview with our correspondent in Calabar, said the feat was achieved through the Business Facilitation Miscellaneous Provision Act 2023.
He said: “During my two-term tenure from 2015 to 2023, I am proud of the 35 bills and 55 motions I sponsored and/or co-sponsored.
“This is a demonstration of my commitment to legislative excellence. Among the motions I sponsored, were the need for value-addition and domestication strategies for sustainable economic growth; the deplorable state of Nigeria’s federal roads and the necessity of combating illicit financial flows through a legal framework and tax amnesty review for voluntary repatriation of funds to Nigeria
“I introduced landmark bills such as the Federal Road Authority Bill, aimed at providing a solution to the deplorable of our federal roads and improving the management and maintenance of condition of federal roads. There was the Petroleum Product Pricing Regulatory Agency Act 2004 (Amendment) Bill. A version of this Bill is still awaiting assent. Mr. President please sign this Bill.
“I advocated for and continue to advocate for at least 70% of FERMA’s budget to be allocated to recurrent expenditure until the FRA Bill becomes law. I express my deepest appreciation to my distinguished colleagues of the 9th Assembly. Despite our diverse backgrounds and political affiliations, we worked together for the collective good of Nigeria and Nigerians. We achieved significant milestones, crafted laws for justice and progress, and provided a platform for dialogue and collaboration. I commend your dedication, your passion, and your unwavering commitment to the service of our nation.
“Our legislative reforms have had a profound impact on various sectors of the nation. Among our successes are the passage of the Electricity Bill, 2022 and the enactment of Constitution Amendment Bills. In addition, the passage of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021 stands out as a major accomplishment.
“We also further democratized the electoral process through the Electoral Act, 2022, with measures aimed at ensuring freer and fairer elections and to ensure the seamless delivery of justice in the courts and tribunals. Landmark corporate regulatory reforms were made with the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020, reducing compliance burdens and fostering a more business-friendly climate.Recognizing the importance of the technology sector, we enacted the Nigeria Start-up Act, 2022, promoting a vibrant start-up ecosystem.
“We also improved the ease of doing business for MSMEs with the Business Facilitation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2023. I acknowledge the excellent leadership of our Senate President, Distinguished Senator Ahmed Lawan, who guided us through these meaningful legislative endeavours. Your even temperament and effective management of a Senate of passionate and determined legislators is commendable. Well done Mr. President.The 9th Assembly passed 162 bills of which 104 were assented to by the President
“This surpasses any previous National Assembly. Is this the work of a rubber-stamp National Assembly or the work of a Parliament partnering with the Executive, in the overall interest of the Nigerian people?Let us always prioritize the interests of the Nigerian people, working towards a brighter future.
“The next Assembly must address the unfinished business ahead. It is important for the Executive to enact legislation like the Nigerian Railway Corporation Act (Repeal & Re-enactment) Bill, the National Roads Fund Bill, and the Federal Roads Authority Bill, which will lay the foundation for an efficient infrastructure system and promote public-private cooperation that will meet the needs of our growing population. Mr. President, please sign these bills.The 10th Assembly has a unique opportunity to lead alongside an Executive Branch headed by peers.
“The President, Vice President, and First Lady, SGF, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Federal Republic of Nigeria are all Senators. This presents a unique opportunity for exemplary leadership, strategic foresight, efficient policy-making and cooperation between the arms of government, to deliver the country Nigerians have been yearning for.Congratulations to my Senate and Constituency staff for their tireless work in serving the people. Together, we have made a difference.
“I express my profound gratitude to the people of Cross River South Senatorial District, and indeed, Cross River State. Your support and trust have guided my legislative functions. The baton is being passed to capable hands, and I have full confidence in my successor to work tirelessly on your behalf.Finally, I must thank my darling wife, 5 children and my entire family for their support, love and encourage through these 8 years.
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