By Correspondent

A new book “The Nigerian Legislature: Understanding its impact on democratic governance and national development” has been described as a landmark scholarly contribution that provides a comprehensive examination of the country’s parliamentary evolution, constitutional responsibilities, and the role of the National Assembly in strengthening democratic governance.

The publication by Dr. Ezrel Tabiowo offers an extensive analysis of legislative practice in Nigeria, with particular emphasis on the budget process, the consideration of executive requests for domestic and external borrowing, and the exercise of legislative oversight over the executive arm of government.

The book reviewer, Nigerian Ambassador to Germany, Senator Ita Enang said “the book chronicles how these constitutional responsibilities were discharged during the leadership of former Senate Presidents Evans Enwerem, Dr. Chuba Okadigbo and Anyim Pius Anyim, as well as former Speakers of the House of Representatives, including Salisu Buhari, Ghali Umar Na’Abba, Aminu Bello Masari, Patricia Etteh and Dimeji Bankole, spanning the Fourth, Fifth and Sixth National Assemblies.

He said the book also examines the legislature’s scrutiny of executive nominations for ministerial, ambassadorial, constitutional and other strategic appointments, stressing that Senate confirmation is a constitutional duty requiring diligence, objectivity and independent judgment rather than a ceremonial exercise.
The book further explores the relationship between the legislature and the media, explaining how public perception of parliamentary activities has often been shaped by media reports. It provides context for several legislative decisions that attracted public criticism and seeks to deepen understanding of parliamentary procedures, strengthen citizens’ confidence in the legislature and promote informed engagement by civil society organisations, advocacy groups and the electorate.

The publication pays tribute to former Senate President Ahmed Lawan for his mentorship and long-standing commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions during his 27 years of uninterrupted service in the National Assembly. It also acknowledges the National Assembly for providing the institutional environment that enabled the author to document key legislative developments over many years.

Enang described the book as the product of extensive research, which combines constitutional and statutory analysis, comparative legislative studies and the author’s years of experience as a parliamentary correspondent and media adviser within the National Assembly.

Structured to provide both historical and contemporary perspectives, the book traces the evolution of legislative institutions from pre-colonial governance traditions through the colonial era, the Westminster parliamentary system of the First Republic, periods of military rule and the emergence of the current presidential system. It argues that these historical developments continue to shape the character, political culture and operational challenges of Nigeria’s legislature.

Dedicated chapters examine legislative oversight and accountability mechanisms, assessing the effectiveness of oversight powers, identifying institutional weaknesses and presenting case studies of major legislative investigations.

Another section focuses on economic governance, offering a detailed analysis of the appropriation process, constituency projects, fiscal federalism and the legislature’s contributions to policy development in key sectors such as education and infrastructure.

The book also discusses challenges confronting the National Assembly, including institutional capacity gaps, high legislative turnover, ethical concerns, executive-legislative relations, judicial interventions and the broader socio-economic environment. It further assesses the impact of globalisation, digital technology and social media on legislative practice and public engagement.

Overall, the publication presents a balanced assessment of the achievements and shortcomings of Nigeria’s legislature while proposing reforms aimed at strengthening democratic institutions, enhancing accountability and improving legislative effectiveness in the years ahead, Ambassador Ita Enang concluded.

The Director General of National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies, Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman said he was not in doubt that this publication will add to the body of knowledge especially as it affects the workings of the legislature in Nigeria, especially given the background of the author and his years of experience working in the legislative space.

“I believe that this book will not only be a very valuable contribution to the literature on the Nigerian legislature, it will also be great resource for not only those who work in the legislative space, but those who desire an indepth knowledge on democracy and governance as well”.

He recommended the book for all students of NILDS and al the departments of the institute.

Clerk to the National Assembly (CNA), Barrister Kamorudeen Ogunlana expressed gratitude to the author, Dr. Ezrel Tabiowo, Media Adviser to the President of the 9th Senate, adding that the book will go a long way to correct some of the misconceptions of the public about the workings of the National Assembly.

By Our Correspondent

Troops of the Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA (JTF NW OPFY) have sustained the tempo of offensive operations against terrorist elements and bandit syndicates across the North West geopolitical zone.

According to the statement signed by the Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja stated that in a series of coordinated operations conducted between 27 and 28 June 2026, troops neutralized two terrorists, rescued a kidnapped victim, arrested eight suspected collaborators and logistics facilitators, and recovered 110 rustled cattle, further disrupting criminal activities across the region.

On 27 June 2026, a combined team of Sector 1 troops and members of the Vigilante Group, while conducting fighting patrols in Giwa and Kaduna North Local Government Areas of Kaduna State, engaged terrorists transporting kidnapped victims on motorcycles.
Following a fierce exchange of fire, the terrorists abandoned two motorcycles and fled into the surrounding bush.

Troops rescued one kidnapped victim alive, while sadly recovering the body of another victim who had been killed by the terrorists.

Later the same day, troops of Sector 1 responded to reports of a terrorist attack on Dariya Village in Giwa Local Government Area of Kaduna State, where one civilian was killed and three others sustained injuries before the arrival of security forces. Pursuing the fleeing terrorists, the troops intercepted them on motorcycles and engaged them in a firefight, neutralizing two of the terrorists. During the encounter, one motorcycle, some rounds of ammunition, charms and other personal effects were recovered.

In a separate intelligence-led operation, troops of Sector 2 at Magami in Gusau Local Government Area of Zamfara State arrested two suspects believed to have provided medical support to terrorist groups operating within the area.

Elsewhere, troops of Sector 1 on fighting patrol around Polewire Village in Birnin Gwari Local Government Area arrested six individuals found under suspicious circumstances following a firefight with fleeing terrorists. The suspects are currently undergoing investigation.

On 28 June 2026, troops of Sector 1, working in conjunction with members of the Vigilante Group in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, pursued cattle rustlers and established a snap ambush along their suspected escape route at Ungwan Gora bush.

The sustained pressure mounted by the troops forced the rustlers to abandon the stolen livestock and flee, leading to the successful recovery of all 110 rustled cattle. The recovered cattle were subsequently handed over to their rightful owners.

The Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA remains committed to sustaining offensive operations aimed at denying terrorist and criminal groups freedom of action while safeguarding the lives and property of law-abiding citizens across the North West.

The Force also urges members of the public to continue supporting ongoing operations by providing timely and credible information to security agencies.

Infrastructure is a fundamental driver of urban growth and real estate development across the world. In the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, the provision of transportation networks, utilities, social amenities, and communication facilities has significantly influenced property values across various districts and satellite towns.

This article examines the relationship between infrastructural development and property values in Abuja, highlighting the mechanisms through which infrastructure affects residential and commercial real estate markets. The study concludes that improved infrastructure enhances accessibility, stimulates economic activities, attracts investment, and increases demand for properties, thereby resulting in higher property values.

The establishment of Abuja as Nigeria’s capital city in 1976 marked the beginning of a comprehensive urban development programme guided by the Abuja Master Plan. Unlike many Nigerian cities that evolved organically, Abuja was designed to accommodate rapid population growth while ensuring orderly development through the strategic provision of infrastructure.

Infrastructure comprises the physical and social facilities necessary for economic and social activities, including roads, rail systems, electricity, water supply, drainage systems, telecommunications, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and recreational centres.

Property value refers to the monetary worth of land and buildings as determined by market forces such as demand, accessibility, location, and available amenities.

In the FCT, infrastructure has emerged as one of the most important determinants of property values. Areas with superior infrastructure consistently command higher rents and sale prices than areas with inadequate facilities.

The relationship between infrastructure and property values can be explained by the Hedonic Pricing Theory, which suggests that property prices are determined by the bundle of characteristics associated with a property, including its location and access to infrastructure.

Similarly, the Bid-Rent Theory argues that individuals and businesses are willing to pay higher prices for properties located in areas with better accessibility and lower transportation costs.

These theories indicate that infrastructure contributes directly to the attractiveness and economic utility of real estate assets.

Over the years, the Federal Government and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) have invested heavily in infrastructure development within the FCT. Major projects include:

– Expansion of arterial road networks and interchanges.
– Development of the Abuja Light Rail system.
– Construction of the Abuja–Kaduna railway corridor.
– Upgrading of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
– Provision of water supply and electricity distribution networks.
– Expansion of telecommunications infrastructure.
– Development of schools, hospitals, and recreational facilities.
– Construction of drainage systems and flood control infrastructure.

These investments have transformed the urban landscape and influenced the spatial distribution of property values across the city.

It’s a well established fact that Infrastructural Development impacts property values in Abuja in many positive ways. Transportation infrastructure, for instance, significantly enhances accessibility by reducing travel time and improving mobility.

Districts such as Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse, Guzape, Jabi, and Gwarinpa have witnessed substantial increases in property values due to their proximity to major road networks and commercial centres. Improved connectivity increases demand for properties because residents and businesses prefer locations that offer convenient access to workplaces, markets, and social amenities.

Recent studies indicate that road infrastructure investments positively influence commercial property investment returns in Abuja.

Increase in Residential Property Values

Residential properties located in areas with reliable infrastructure generally command higher rental and capital values.

The provision of good roads, electricity, water supply, drainage systems, and security infrastructure attracts homebuyers and tenants, thereby increasing demand and driving up prices.

Research on Abuja’s residential property market demonstrates that infrastructure quality significantly affects investment returns and rental performance across different submarkets.

Impact of Rail Transportation Infrastructure

The introduction of rail transport infrastructure has enhanced connectivity between Abuja and its surrounding communities.

Areas such as Kubwa, Idu, and communities located along the Abuja–Kaduna rail corridor have experienced increased real estate demand due to improved accessibility.

Studies on the Kubwa rail corridor found that proximity to rail stations positively influences residential rental values by reducing transportation costs and improving commuting efficiency.

Stimulation of Commercial Activities

Infrastructure attracts businesses and promotes economic growth.

Commercial properties located in areas with quality infrastructure enjoy higher occupancy rates and increased rental values because businesses seek locations with efficient transportation systems, reliable utilities, and effective communication networks.

The rapid growth of commercial hubs in the Central Business District, Utako, Wuse, and Jabi illustrates the strong connection between infrastructure and commercial property performance.

Attraction of Private Investment

Infrastructure reduces investment risk and encourages private sector participation in real estate development.

Developers are more inclined to invest in districts with:

– Good road networks.
– Stable electricity supply.
– Efficient drainage systems.
– Adequate water supply.
– Strong telecommunications infrastructure.
– Effective security systems.

Consequently, emerging districts such as Lokogoma, Karmo, Lugbe, and Guzape have experienced significant increases in property development activities.

Urban Expansion and Growth of Satellite Towns

Infrastructure projects facilitate urban expansion by opening previously inaccessible areas to development.

As property prices in the city centre continue to rise, improved transportation networks have encouraged population movement towards satellite towns such as Kubwa, Gwagwalada, Nyanya, Karu, and Lugbe.

This trend has led to increased demand and property appreciation in these locations.

Enhancement of Social Infrastructure

The availability of schools, hospitals, shopping centres, parks, and recreational facilities improves neighbourhood quality and enhances property values.

Properties situated near quality social amenities typically command premium prices because they offer greater convenience and improved living standards.

Challenges Affecting Infrastructure-Induced Property Value Growth

Despite the positive effects of infrastructure development, several challenges limit its impact on property values in Abuja:

– Uneven distribution of infrastructure across districts.
– Delays in implementing the Abuja Master Plan.
– Inadequate maintenance of existing infrastructure.
– Traffic congestion in rapidly developing areas.
– High infrastructure development costs.
– Informal settlements and unplanned developments.
– Land administration bottlenecks.
– Speculative land acquisition.

These challenges contribute to disparities in property values across different parts of the FCT.

Policy Recommendations

To maximise the positive impact of infrastructure on property values in Abuja, the following measures are recommended:

1. Ensure equitable distribution of infrastructure across all districts.
2. Strengthen implementation of the Abuja Master Plan.
3. Encourage public-private partnerships in infrastructure financing.
4. Improve maintenance of existing infrastructure.
5. Integrate land use planning with transportation planning.
6. Expand mass transit systems to emerging districts.
7. Improve transparency and efficiency in land administration.
8. Promote smart city initiatives and digital infrastructure.

Conclusion

Infrastructure development remains a major determinant of property values in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Investments in roads, rail transport, utilities, telecommunications, and social amenities enhance accessibility, improve quality of life, stimulate economic activities, and attract private investment.

Empirical evidence indicates that well-developed infrastructure significantly increases residential and commercial property values across Abuja. Areas with superior infrastructure consistently record higher rental incomes, stronger capital appreciation, and increased investor confidence.

As Abuja continues to expand, sustainable and equitable infrastructure provision will remain essential for promoting balanced urban growth and enhancing the long-term performance of the property market.

By ESV Adah George MNIVS