In a bid to deepen the knowledge of students from the Secondary School level on Legislature, democracy and governance as well as inspire young Nigerians to cultivate the interest of participating in legislative governance, the Ogun State House of Assembly has hosted the State Based National quiz competition.
The Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide while declaring the competition open, said the initiative was not just for answering questions or winning awards, rather, an avenue for shaping minds and building a generation of young Nigerians who understand the meaning, processes, and the responsibilities of democracy.
Elemide noted that the legislature remained the pillar of representative governance, that gives voice to the people and ensures accountability in public service, urging participants to internalise the experience garnered and be encouraged, not only to compete, but also to carry forward the values of justice, fairness, and service to humanity.
Represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Bolanle Ajayi, Elemide commended NILDS for their unwavering commitment to civic education and dedication to nurturing the next generation of leaders, charging contestants to approach the exercise with courage, curiosity, and a spirit of sportsmanship.
“For us in the Ogun State House of Assembly, hosting this event is symbolic, as sitting in this Hallowed Chamber, where laws are debated and passed for good governance of our people, this is witnessing democracy in action. I encourage you to approach the exercise with courage, curiosity and spirit of sportsmanship. Whether you win or not, today’s experience will remain a seed that will grow into a stronger and more participatory democracy”, Elemide stated.
Speaking, Director General, National Institute for Legislative and
Democratic Studies (NILDS), Prof. Olanrewaju Sulaiman represented by Coordinator, NILDS, Mr. Faruq Onikijipa said the National Competition which was the fourth edition would also serve as avenue for citizen engagement in the legislative process.
Earlier in her welcome address, The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Mrs. Oluwatosin Oloko enjoined students to put in their best to come out with outstanding results and make the State proud.
Winners of the quiz, Iremide Ogunyemi and Suliat Salaudeen from Ambassador College Otta, appreciated NILDS for the privilege to thrive and its commitment towards sustaining the competition.
