NILDS Concludes Capacity Building Programme for National Assembly Security Personnel

National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) has concluded a three-day capacity-building programme on Effective Legislative Security Policy and Management Strategy for Enhanced Safety and Protection of the National Assembly.

Addressing participants at the closing ceremony, the Director General of NILDS, Prof. Abubakar O. Sulaiman, described the role of National Assembly security personnel as critical to safeguarding democracy, constitutional order and the dignity of the legislature.

He noted that their responsibilities include maintaining order within the chambers and precincts, supporting presiding officers, enforcing parliamentary rules, and protecting lawmakers, staff and visitors. Given the law enforcement powers conferred on them under the National Assembly Service Act, he stressed the need for discipline, emotional intelligence, sound judgment and professionalism in the discharge of their duties.

Prof. Sulaiman reminded participants that the National Assembly is a vital institution where the aspirations of Nigerians are translated into legislative decisions. He cautioned against unprofessional conduct, noting that the behaviour of public officers directly affects the reputation of the institutions they represent. He urged the personnel to serve as ambassadors of discipline and demonstrate the lessons learnt through their daily responsibilities.

The Director General also reaffirmed NILDS’ role as the research, training and capacity-building arm of the National Assembly, supporting lawmakers, legislative staff, aides and the wider legislative bureaucracy. He emphasised that the relationship between the two institutions is an institutional partnership that requires mutual respect, maturity and appreciation.

Highlighting the Institute’s contribution to staff development, he disclosed that more than 300 National Assembly staff have benefited from pro bono Master’s and PhD programmes supported by NILDS.

He further noted that the Institute has grown into a world-class institution attracting legislative interest from across Africa, with its achievements driven by prudent management, strategic partnerships and institutional commitment despite limited budgetary allocations.

Prof. Sulaiman commended the Clerk to the National Assembly for promoting synergy between the two institutions and supporting their shared commitment to strengthening legislative capacity.

In his remarks, the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, said the success of the programme would ultimately be measured by how effectively participants apply the knowledge and skills acquired to improve efficiency and performance in their respective duties.

He explained that the training was designed around practical knowledge, ideas and real-life experiences to equip personnel to contribute meaningfully to institutional development. He urged participants to translate the lessons learnt into improved professional conduct and become agents of positive change within the National Assembly.

The Clerk commended the participants for their punctuality, commitment and dedication throughout the programme, while appreciating the Director General of NILDS and all those who contributed to its success. He subsequently declared the training successfully concluded.