National Assembly (Nigeria) facts for kids

The National Assembly of Nigeria is like the main law-making body for the country of Nigeria. It's a bit like the U.S. Congress because it has two main parts, which is called being "bicameral."

These two parts are:

• The Senate
• The House of Representatives

The National Assembly works to make sure that all parts of Nigeria are fairly represented. It has 109 members in the Senate and 360 members in the House of Representatives. Each of Nigeria's 36 states gets three Senators.

The main building for the National Assembly is located in Abuja, which is the capital city of Nigeria, in an area called the FCT.

What is the National Assembly?

The National Assembly is the most important group in Nigeria that makes laws. Think of it as the country's main debating club, but instead of just talking, they create rules and laws that everyone in Nigeria must follow. They also check on how the government is working.

Two Houses: Senate and House of Representatives

Having two parts, or "houses," helps make sure that laws are thought about very carefully before they are passed.

• The Senate has 109 members. Each of Nigeria's 36 states sends three people to be a Senator. This means every state has an equal voice in the Senate, no matter how big or small it is.
• The House of Representatives has 360 members. The number of representatives from each state depends on how many people live there. States with more people get more representatives. This makes sure that the number of people in different areas are fairly represented.

Where the National Assembly Meets

The National Assembly meets in a special building in Abuja, the capital city. This building is where all the debates happen, and where new laws are discussed and voted on. Abuja is a planned city, built specifically to be the center of Nigeria's government.

What Does the National Assembly Do?

The main job of the National Assembly is to make laws for Nigeria. But they do much more than that!

Making Laws for Nigeria

When a new law is needed, it usually starts as an idea or a "bill." This bill is discussed in both the Senate and the House of Representatives. They debate it, suggest changes, and then vote on it. If both houses agree on the bill, and the President of Nigeria signs it, then it becomes a law.

Checking on the Government

The National Assembly also has the important job of keeping an eye on the other parts of the government, like the President and government ministries. They make sure that everyone is doing their job properly and spending money wisely. This helps to keep the government honest and working for the people.

Representing the People

The members of the National Assembly are elected by the people of Nigeria. This means they are there to speak for the people who voted for them. They bring the concerns and needs of their local areas to the national level, making sure that different voices from all over Nigeria are heard.

Images for kids

• 

  Nigeria's National Assembly Building

• 

  Nigeria Senate Building (Red Chamber)

• 

  Nigeria's National Assembly Building with the Mace

• 

  National Assembly Complex