Senate Steps Down Training Institute Bill Over Duplication Concerns as Akpabio Warns Against Rubber-Stamping

The Senate on Thursday stepped down consideration of the Chartered Institute of Training and Development of Nigeria Bill, 2026, after a heated debate over whether it duplicates the work of existing institutions.

The bill, transmitted from the House of Representatives, seeks to establish a professional body for certified trainers and development practitioners. But several senators questioned whether Nigeria needs another training institute when several already exist.

Duplication Concerns

Senator Abdul Ningi led the opposition, cautioning against approving the bill simply because it came from the lower chamber. “We can’t be emotional because it’s coming from a sister chamber and pass it. The bill doesn’t have the required merit to go through,” he said.

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele recommended establishing a sub-committee to review the proposal and ensure compliance with Order 78 of the Senate Standing Rules before further action.

Akpabio Warns Against Rubber-Stamping

Senate President Godswill Akpabio backed calls for a more thorough examination. “Not everything that comes from the House must be passed. This bill is amorphous and can make us look somehow before the executive, who will ultimately assent to it,” he said.

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin also supported stepping down the bill, saying its objectives were unclear. But Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro defended the legislation, insisting its provisions were not ambiguous.

Akpabio announced a sub-committee chaired by Ningi to ensure bills from the House receive rigorous scrutiny before Senate consideration.

Sources: Punch, Channels TV, ABN TV