The Clerk to the National Assembly, Mr. Kamoru Ogunlana, has commended the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) for nurturing the next generation of legislative professionals, describing its Legislative Internship Programme as one of Nigeria’s leading initiatives for strengthening democratic governance and parliamentary excellence.
Ogunlana, who was represented by Dr. Ali B. Umoru at the Model Legislative Assembly Session marking the conclusion of the 2026 PLAC Legislative Internship Programme, congratulated the graduating interns and urged them to remain committed to the ideals of democracy, integrity, accountability and public service.
He noted that the internship had provided participants with invaluable practical exposure to the workings of the National Assembly, enabling them to gain firsthand experience in lawmaking, legislative drafting, committee proceedings, oversight functions, research, representation and other parliamentary processes.
According to him, the programme has equipped the interns with the knowledge, skills and experience required to contribute meaningfully to governance and national development.
“The Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre Legislative Internship Programme has distinguished itself as one of Nigeria’s foremost initiatives for preparing young Nigerians for careers in legislative practice, public policy, governance and democratic leadership,” Ogunlana said.
The Clerk applauded PLAC for its unwavering commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions through capacity building and for investing in young Nigerians with the potential to emerge as future legislators, policy experts and public leaders.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the leadership and members of the National Assembly, the management and staff of the legislature, mentors, facilitators and development partners whose support ensured the successful implementation of the programme.
Addressing the graduating interns, Ogunlana urged them to regard the completion of the internship as the beginning of a lifelong commitment to service, excellence and democratic values rather than the end of their learning journey.
He encouraged them to maintain the professional relationships built during the programme while continuously developing their knowledge, leadership capacity and commitment to ethical public service.
“The future of our democracy depends significantly on young people who are informed, engaged, innovative and committed to the principles of accountability, transparency and the rule of law,” he stated.
Ogunlana further urged the interns to approach the Model Legislative Assembly Session with seriousness and responsibility, stressing that the exercise was designed not only to test their understanding of legislative procedures but also their ability to debate constructively, collaborate effectively and promote the common good.
Expressing confidence in the participants, he said the knowledge and practical experience acquired during the internship would prepare them for greater responsibilities in public service and national development.
He expressed optimism that many of the graduates would, in the future, return to the National Assembly as distinguished legislators, parliamentary officers, policy experts and leaders committed to deepening Nigeria’s democracy and strengthening its legislative institutions.
