The Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, has described the 2026 House of Representatives Open Week as a crucial platform for deepening democratic governance, promoting transparency, and strengthening ties between Parliament and Nigerians. He said the annual engagement has grown beyond ceremony to become a practical tool for accountability.
Speaking at the opening ceremony in Abuja on behalf of National Assembly Management, Ogunlana welcomed dignitaries from across the country. He commended the leadership of the House for sustaining the initiative, noting that it has set a benchmark for parliamentary openness and civic participation in Nigeria.
The week-long event brought together a wide range of stakeholders. In attendance were the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, members of the judiciary, federal lawmakers, executive officials, diplomats, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organizations, development partners, and journalists. 
Ogunlana said Open Week has evolved into one of the most visible expressions of democratic participation in the country. According to him, it gives citizens direct access to legislative processes and a rare opportunity to engage with their elected representatives outside the chamber.
He stressed the unique role of the House of Representatives in Nigeria’s governance structure. As the chamber with the broadest grassroots base, it draws members from every federal constituency and remains closest to the people it serves.
“The House serves as the closest legislative institution to the people, translating local aspirations into national policies and legislation,” Ogunlana stated during his remarks.
Looking at the record of the 10th House, the CNA described it as responsive and people-centered. He pointed to the expansion of the committee system to widen oversight, the processing of an unprecedented number of public petitions, and the introduction of key bills focused on economic growth, institutional reform, national security, governance, and social welfare.
Ogunlana added that Open Week helps demystify how Parliament works by opening its doors to everyday citizens. “Through initiatives such as Open Week, citizens gain deeper insight into legislative activities, while lawmakers receive important feedback that improves representation and policymaking,” he said. He commended Speaker Tajudeen Abbas for institutionalizing the program and acknowledged development partners for supporting parliamentary democracy, before urging participants to take part fully in the discussions, exhibitions, and interactive sessions scheduled for the week.
