Senate Reshuffles Committees, Appoints New Chairmen

The Nigerian Senate has announced new leadership for several committees following its resumption from a two-week recess. Presiding over the session, Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended lawmakers for their dedication during the 2025 budget defence, emphasizing their role in shaping a viable financial plan for the country.

With President Bola Tinubu’s recent approval of bills establishing regional development commissions, the Senate has made minor adjustments to committee leadership. Senator Babangida Hussaini and Senator Muntari Dandutse have been appointed as Chairman and Deputy Chairman of the Senate Committee on the North West Development Commission. Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and Senator Kenneth Eze will lead the South East Development Commission Committee, while Senator Titus Zam and Senator Isa Jibrin will head the North Central Development Commission Committee.

In addition to these appointments, the Senate has reshuffled several standing committees. Senator Abdul Ningi has transitioned from the Population Committee to chair the Senate Committee on the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA). Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan, formerly overseeing the Local Content Committee, now leads the Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organisations. Senator Garba Maidoki has been appointed Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports Development, while Senator Joel Thomas now heads the Local Content Committee. Senator Victor Umeh, previously leading the Diaspora Committee, has been reassigned to chair the Senate Committee on National Population and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).

During the session, the Senate extended its condolences to the Speaker of the House of Representatives following the passing of former Deputy Majority Whip, Oriyomi Onanuga, on January 15. In her honour, Akpabio led lawmakers in a minute of silence before adjourning the plenary.