By Jane Salihu
The Initiative for Research, Innovation and Advocacy in Development (IRIAD) has called on the National Assembly to ensure that the resolutions and commitments made during the 2026 National Assembly Open Week translate into concrete legislative actions, measurable reforms and greater accountability to Nigerians.
In a statement issued at the close of the three-day event, signed by its Director, Princess Hamman-Obels, the organisation commended the National Assembly for successfully hosting the 2026 NASS Open Week from July 14 to 16 at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja, describing it as an important platform for strengthening transparency, citizen participation and democratic governance.
According to IRIAD, while the engagement brought together lawmakers, Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), civil society organisations, development partners, women, youths, persons with disabilities, traditional leaders, the media and citizens to deliberate on national issues, the real test lies in implementing the outcomes.
“Transparency opens the door, accountability builds public trust, and integrity sustains democracy. As the curtains fall on the 2026 National Assembly Open Week, Nigerians expect more than dialogue; they expect action, accountability, and measurable results,” the statement read.
The organisation stressed that an open parliament should be judged not by the number of discussions it convenes but by its commitment to implementing resolutions with transparency, accountability and integrity.
It urged the legislature to prioritise legislative reforms, strengthen oversight functions and ensure that deliberations on national security, inclusive representation, youth engagement and service delivery result in tangible policy outcomes.
IRIAD also emphasised the need for regular public reporting on the implementation of commitments made during the Open Week, saying this would enable citizens to monitor progress and hold public institutions accountable.
The organisation identified security as a critical priority, noting that peace and safety remain fundamental to democratic governance, economic growth and sustainable development.
It further called for the speedy passage of the Special Seats Bill for Women, describing it as a vital step towards achieving a more representative legislature and promoting gender inclusion in Nigeria’s democratic process.
On youth inclusion, IRIAD urged lawmakers to institutionalise meaningful youth participation in legislative processes, saying young people should be recognised as equal partners in nation-building whose ideas and leadership are essential for Nigeria’s future.
The organisation also appealed to security agencies to strengthen accountability, improve inter-agency collaboration and adopt proactive measures to protect lives and property.
It urged Ministries, Departments and Agencies, as well as the private sector, to work together in implementing reforms that promote transparency, innovation and efficient service delivery.
IRIAD further tasked civil society organisations with sustaining advocacy for transparency, monitoring legislative performance and encouraging active civic participation, while urging citizens to remain engaged in democratic processes by participating in public consultations, demanding accountability and supporting leaders who demonstrate integrity in governance.
Reaffirming its commitment to democratic development, the organisation pledged to continue working with government institutions, civil society, the media and citizens to ensure that policy commitments translate into meaningful reforms.
IRIAD said building a secure, accountable and inclusive Nigeria requires sustained collaboration among all stakeholders, anchored on transparency, ethical leadership and responsible stewardship of public trust.
