NASS Leadership: Tinubu Holds Meetings with Lawan, Gbajabiamila to Discuss Successors

As the 10th session of the federal legislature approaches, the election of new presiding officers for the National Assembly is set to take place on June 13. In light of this, President Bola Tinubu recently convened separate meetings with Senate President Ahmad Lawan and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, in Abuja on Thursday. The primary objective of these discussions was to deliberate on the selection process for the leadership positions within the upcoming National Assembly.

Following the meeting, Senator Lawan spoke to journalists and shared insights into the discussions that took place. He revealed that President Tinubu had emphasized the importance of choosing the right individuals to lead the National Assembly. According to Lawan, Tinubu stressed that the emergence of the leadership should be guided by the national interest, as well as the interests of the legislative body itself.

“We are making progress, and our hope is to resolve all outstanding matters,” Lawan said, expressing his optimism about achieving a smooth process. He further noted that President Tinubu, having previously served as a senator himself, along with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo’s background as a senator, would undoubtedly desire and pray for the appointment of the right leadership within the National Assembly.

Lawan, who chaired the 9th National Assembly, emphasized the need to collaborate with key stakeholders, particularly with the country’s leadership. He mentioned that Tinubu provided valuable advice on how the new leadership should be chosen, as well as the measures required to ensure its stability and productivity. The newly elected leadership, as per Tinubu’s counsel, must foster a peaceful working relationship between the Legislature and the Executive branches of the government.

Lawan also took the opportunity to clarify his own position, asserting that he had not expressed any interest in running for the Office of the Senate President in the 10th National Assembly. He highlighted the productive collaboration that occurred during the 9th National Assembly and acknowledged the vital role it played in supporting President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

“We, the more experienced members, have a responsibility to mentor the newcomers, even if we are not vying for presiding officer or principal positions,” Lawan added, emphasizing the importance of guiding and supporting the newly elected representatives.

In summary, the meetings between President Tinubu, Senate President Lawan, and Speaker Gbajabiamila revolved around the selection process for the upcoming leadership positions in the National Assembly. President Tinubu emphasized the significance of appointing individuals who would serve the national interest, while Lawan reiterated the need for a harmonious working relationship between the Legislature and the Executive. These discussions aim to ensure the smooth functioning and productivity of the 10th National Assembly.