NASS quiz competition is investment in democracy – NILDS

Participants at the competition

The Director General of National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies of the National Assembly, Abubakar Sulaiman on Tuesday said the quiz competition organised by the body for students of secondary schools is more than an academic exercise.

“It is a deliberate investment in the future of our democracy,” he added.

Speaking in Owerri during the 11th edition of state level competition across the three senatorial districts of Imo State, Sulaiman pointed out that the essence of NILDS national quiz competition for Senior Secondary Schools on the legislature and democracy is to promote awareness and understanding of the legislature, democracy, and governance among young Nigerians, and to nurture in them the values of participation, accountability, and patriotism.

“Democracy is sustained not only by laws and institutions, but also by an informed citizenry, and the legislature. The people’s assembly thrives when citizens, especially the youth, understand their role, powers, and limitations.

“This year’s edition is the 11th anniversary of a vision that began as a modest idea strictly for schools within the FCT that has now touched schools across every geopolitical zone of Nigeria. Through it, many students have gained insight into how laws are made, how representation works, and why the rule of law matters.

“The challenges facing our democracy can only be overcomed through education, critical thinking, and civic engagement, and this is why NILDS continues to champion this initiative.

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He commended the Senate president, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abass, the Chairman, and Alternate Chairman of the NILDS Governing Council respectively for their support and commitment to strengthening democracy through education.

The Executive Secretary, Secondary Education Management Board, Imo State, Theresa Okwu said NILDS is an institution of the National Assembly established to promote research, training, capacity development and knowledge of legislative and democratic processes.

“The National Quiz Competition on Legislature and Democracy provides a valuable platform for secondary school students to deepen their understanding of the legislature, constitutional governance, civic responsibility and democratic principles.

“I urge you to believe in yourselves and put in your very best. This competition is an opportunity for you to demonstrate your knowledge, to sharpen your critical thinking abilities and develop confidence in public intellectual engagement”.

At the end of the keenly contested competition, students of Eziachi Secondary school, Orlu from Imo West Senatorial District emerged winner of the competition.

According to Imo State NILDS coordinator, Ifeyinwa Udenkwo, “The winner will move to the South-East stage level for the finale winner from the zone”.