National Assembly to Translate Laws into Local Languages for Better Access

The National Assembly is working on translating Nigerian laws into local languages like Igbo, Hausa, and Yoruba. This initiative aims to make legislative information more accessible to the public. Mr. Henry Nwawuba, the Executive Secretary of the National Assembly Library Trust Fund, announced this plan during the opening of the 2026 National Assembly Library Week in Abuja.

The three-day event, themed “Parliamentary Memory: Connecting Records, Legislation and the People,” focuses on promoting access to information and effective use of the National Assembly Library’s resources. Nwawuba emphasized that the library is not just a collection of books but a vital resource for lawmakers and the public.

To enhance access, the library is investing in digital resources and creating a mobile application. This app will help users track bills and monitor their progress through the legislative process. Nwawuba also mentioned that the library is developing materials to explain laws and legislative procedures in simpler terms.

By translating laws into local languages, the National Assembly hopes to help more citizens understand the laws that affect their lives. Nwawuba said this would also encourage greater public participation in legislative processes.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio highlighted the importance of the library in combating misinformation and supporting informed decision-making in legislation. He called for lawmakers to utilize the library more effectively.

The Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, stressed the need for accurate and secure access to legislative records. He warned about the risks of digital manipulation and the importance of maintaining the integrity of official documents.

Overall, the National Assembly aims to strengthen its connection with the public and ensure that its records are easily accessible and trustworthy.