Harmonizing parliamentary reporting: Reps Clerk, Danzaria highlights importance of conference
By: Abba Onyekachukwu, Abuja.
The Clerk of the House of Representatives, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, has emphasized the significance of the Annual Delegate Conference of the Association of Hansard/Verbatim Reporters of Nigeria, held at the National Assembly Library Trust Fund, National Assembly on Tuesday.
Representing the Clerk of the National Assembly, Dr. Danzaria highlighted the crucial role of parliamentary reporters in capturing the essence of parliamentary business.
According to Dr. Danzaria, the National Assembly faced challenges in parliamentary reporting over the past two years due to the retirement of experienced reporters. To mitigate this, the Assembly had to borrow reporters from other institutions to ensure continuity.
The Clerk emphasized the need for harmonization among parliamentary reporters to ensure accuracy and consistency in reporting parliamentary proceedings. He noted that the conference provides a platform for reporters to share knowledge, best practices, and experiences, ultimately enhancing their skills and performance.
Dr. Danzaria also highlighted the importance of adapting to technology in parliamentary reporting. With the increasing use of technology, reporters must be equipped to capture the essence of parliamentary business accurately and efficiently.
Similarly in an interview, the National President of the Association of Hansard/Verbatim Reporters of Nigeria, Gobina Drisu, emphasized the continued relevance of Hansard reporting in the digital age. He noted that while technology has improved the efficiency of reporting, human reporters are still essential for ensuring accuracy and capturing the nuances of parliamentary proceedings.
Drisu highlighted the challenges facing Hansard Reporters, including inadequate equipment, lack of training, and limited government attention. He called for increased support and resources to enable reporters to perform their duties effectively.
The Executive Secretary of the National Assembly Trust Fund, Hon. Henry Nwawuba, who was represented by Moses Ameh, the Head of Human Resources and Administration delivered a goodwill message at the conference, emphasizing the critical role of Hansard Reporters in parliamentary democracy. He noted that the work of reporters ensures transparency, accountability, and informed governance, and praised their dedication and professionalism.
Adesola Vakporaye, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of the Director, Parliamentary Legislative Advocacy Centre, Barr Clement Okonkwo at the event.
The conference is a vital platform for parliamentary reporters to come together, share knowledge, and discuss best practices. By harmonizing their work, reporters can ensure that parliamentary proceedings are accurately captured and reported, ultimately promoting transparency and accountability in the legislative process.
