A Bill for an Act to Amend the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act, 2017, to Institutionalize Sunset Clauses and Mandatory Periodic Legislative Review of Acts Establishing Ministries, Departments, and Agencies for the Continued Relevance, Effectiveness, and Efficiency of Public Institutions; and for Related Matters

Abstract

This Bill seeks to amend the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act, 2017, to institutionalize mandatory periodic legislative review of the laws establishing Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of government, and to provide for the inclusion of sunset clauses in such laws where appropriate. The amendment empowers each Legislative House and its committees to assess, at defined intervals, the continued relevance, efficiency, and effectiveness of the enabling statutes governing public institutions within their oversight jurisdiction. At present, there exists no statutory obligation for legislative committees to periodically review the legal frameworks of MDAs. Consequently, sunset clauses will serve as built-in legal mechanisms for triggering legislative reconsideration, reform, or repeal of outdated statutes after a defined period, in line with institutional performance and national priorities. This reform enhances the role of the legislature in promoting accountable, agile, and evidence-based governance. It also strengthens legislative oversight, ensures the continuous modernization of public institutions, and aligns Nigeria's legal-administrative framework with global best practices. Indeed, the Bill will contribute significantly to building a results-driven and future-ready public service by embedding a culture of regular statutory review and performance-based legislative renewal.