Senate Advances Bill to Amend Terrorism Prohibition Act to Second Reading

• Senate progresses bill to amend Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act 2024, aiming to implement targeted financial sanctions promptly
• Sen. Emmanuel Udende introduces the bill, emphasizing the need for immediate domestic designation of terrorism-related issues, individuals, and entities

The Senate progressed a bill for an act to amend the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act 2024 to its second reading.

The bill, introduced by Sen. Emmanuel Udende (APC-Benue), aims to empower Nigeria to promptly implement targeted financial sanctions on terrorism and terrorism financing.

In his lead debate, Udende explained that the bill seeks to provide immediate domestic designation to issues, individuals, and entities related to terrorism and financing.

Contributing to the discussion, Sen. Mohammed Monguno (APC-Borno) expressed support for the bill, emphasizing the necessity of aligning terrorism prevention and prohibition with international standards. He highlighted the evolving nature of terrorism, necessitating amendments to Nigeria’s legislation, especially in response to technological advancements.

Monguno underscored the significance of the amendment, as it would enable the Attorney General of the Federation to designate entities or individuals as terrorists. This designation, he noted, facilitates international cooperation, particularly with organizations like Interpol, in combatting terrorism.

Sen. Seriake Dickson (PDP-Bayelsa) emphasized the importance of strengthening mechanisms to combat terrorism financing, advocating for robust measures.

In another development, the Senate also advanced a bill for an act to amend the Money Laundering Prevention and Prohibition Act to its second reading. This bill, sponsored by Sen. Bamidele Opeyemi (APC-Ekiti), aims to incorporate the Nigerian Financial Sanctions Unit and National Drug Law Enforcement Agency into efforts to surveil and prevent money laundering in Nigeria.

Additionally, the Senate approved the second reading of a bill for an act to amend the Agricultural Research Council Act, 2004, sponsored by Sen. Abba Moro (PDP-Benue).

Subsequently, after approving the votes and proceedings, the Senate adjourned the plenary to April 16 for the Easter and Sallah break.