Kamorudeen Ogunlana has officially resumed as the ninth Clerk to the National Assembly, taking over from Sani Tambuwal. The handover ceremony took place on Saturday at the National Assembly complex in Abuja, attended by management staff and other dignitaries.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the National Assembly’s information directorate, Tambuwal formally handed over the position to Ogunlana, noting, “I formally hand over this document on the National Assembly to Kamorudeen Ogunlana.”
In his remarks, Ogunlana commended his predecessor’s leadership and patriotism, describing the occasion as historic. He acknowledged that Tambuwal had successfully led the National Assembly, saying, “It is not just to complete it; you completed it with your reputation intact.”
Highlighting the importance of his new role, Ogunlana noted that the Clerk to the National Assembly is more than just an administrative head. He likened the position to that of a Head of Service, emphasizing the weight of the role and the responsibility it carries. Ogunlana said, “Within the National Assembly Service, apart from the Public Complaint Commission, it is only the Clerk to the National Assembly that is mentioned. Now, that position is not just cosmetic. We all know the role of the Clerk to the National Assembly, and that role is actually evolving.”
The new CNA went on to explain that his role also involves managing a substantial workforce, including over 4,000 staff and 7,000 legislative aides, as well as navigating the complex demands of hosting dignitaries such as the President. “Do you know what it means for the president of this country to come to your domain? Do you know what it takes to host the President? Anytime they say the President is coming, for us, it’s like a one-month affair. We don’t sleep! But this man was able to navigate those terrains successfully,” Ogunlana stated.
Ogunlana also praised Tambuwal for passing the second test of leadership, saying, “No matter how good you are, if you don’t groom your successor, you are a failure in the area. This man actually groomed his successor.” He further expressed his gratitude to Tambuwal, saying, “Even though he’s leaving, he’s not really leaving.”
Looking ahead, Ogunlana shared his plans to “democratize” the management of the National Assembly and to foster teamwork among the staff. He also acknowledged his own legal and legislative background, emphasizing the need for collaboration, particularly in financial matters, where Tambuwal’s experience will continue to be invaluable.
Ogunlana’s remarks underscored his vision for the National Assembly, stressing that the Clerk’s role is pivotal to the success of the legislative body and promising to build upon the strong foundation laid by his predecessor.
