2026 NASS Open Week: History Will Remember Where You Stood on National Issues – Shehu Sani to Lawmakers

Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has called on members of the National Assembly to use their positions to defend Nigeria’s dignity and leave a lasting legacy through courageous and principled leadership.

Speaking at the 2026 National Assembly Open Week, Sani described the initiative as a vital platform that allows Nigerians to engage directly with their elected representatives and gain firsthand insight into legislative activities.

He stressed that lawmakers are often remembered not merely for the laws they pass or oversight functions they perform, but for the positions they take on sensitive national issues and matters of public interest.

The former senator highlighted Nigeria’s historic contributions to global peace and freedom, citing the country’s role in World War II, anti-apartheid struggles, and peacekeeping missions in countries such as Congo, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Somalia, Angola, and Mozambique.

According to him, Nigeria has made enormous sacrifices for humanity without seeking compensation and should not be unfairly stereotyped or criminalised by the international community.

Sani also reminded lawmakers that Nigeria’s democracy was built on sacrifice, with many citizens paying the ultimate price in the struggle against military rule. He urged legislators to make meaningful contributions despite the enormous expectations and pressures associated with public office.

Meanwhile, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, Archbishop Emeritus of the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja, commended the National Assembly for sustaining the Open Week initiative, describing it as a commendable platform for promoting transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance.

He said the event strengthens democratic institutions by bringing parliament closer to the people and fostering greater public confidence in the legislative process.

Onaiyekan identified insecurity as Nigeria’s greatest challenge, stressing that lasting solutions require collaboration among all levels of government, security agencies, traditional institutions, civil society organisations, and local communities.

The cleric also lauded President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly for pursuing constitutional reforms, particularly efforts aimed at state policing and devolution of powers, saying the reforms could strengthen Nigeria’s federal system and improve governance if faithfully implemented.

He reaffirmed the commitment of stakeholders to supporting reforms that deepen democracy, enhance security, and advance sustainable national development.