By Naomi Sharang
Legislative legacy is not measured by the number of motions, bills sponsored or oversight visits but by the courage displayed in addressing controversial and nationally important issues.
Former senator representing Kaduna Central, Sen. Shehu Sani, made this known on Tuesday in Abuja during the 2026 National Assembly Open Week, themed “Three Years of the 10th Assembly: Advancing Transparency, Inclusion and Reform.”
Addressing the leadership of the National Assembly, Sani challenged them to recognise the lasting impact of their decisions.
”You occupy historic positions and have a responsibility to shape Nigeria’s democratic history through courageous and principled leadership.
“Mr President and Mr Speaker, you have a historic roles and duties like those before you. You must leave your mark in the line of history by standing up for what is right and what is just,” he said.
He noted that political considerations often make it difficult for leaders to speak the truth or take bold decisions but stressed that truth and justice must remain the guiding principles of governance.
The former lawmaker reminded participants that Nigeria’s democracy was achieved through years of struggle and sacrifice by citizens who protested military rule, endured imprisonment and in some cases, lost their lives.
According to him, the nation’s democratic institutions should never lose sight of those sacrifices, urging lawmakers to protect and strengthen democratic ideals.
Sani acknowledged the enormous expectations placed on public office holders and the challenges of leadership, saying governance was often complicated by limited resources and competing demands.
He, however, encouraged the leadership of the National Assembly to remain focused and make meaningful contributions in spite of the pressures.
“Whatever it is, you must find your place. You must struggle within the turbulence to make your own impact,” he said. (NAN)
Edited by Sadiya Hamza