Speaker Asks PCC To Broaden Its Reach, Strengthen Administrative Justice

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr Abbas Tajudeen, has called on the Public Complaints Commission, PCC, to transform into a fully digital ombudsman capable of real-time complaint tracking and data-driven policy reform.

Speaking at the 2025 Global Ombudsman Summit and the 50th anniversary of the PCC in Abuja, Dr Abbas represented by his deputy, Benjamin Kalu said the Commission must adopt modern tools to broaden its reach and strengthen its role in administrative justice.

“Recall that PCC was established in 1975 by the military administration with the mandate of protecting citizens against administrative abuse and inefficiency.”

“Moving forward, the PCC should become a fully digital ombudsman capable of real-time complaint tracking, data analysis for policy reform, and seamless collaboration with government ministries and agencies”.

“It should also enhance its research and advisory functions, ensuring that insights from complaints inform legislative and executive reforms”.

“Additionally, expanding its reach to all states and local governments is vital to ensure justice and administrative fairness are accessible to every Nigerian”. Dr Abbas said.

He lauded the theme of the summit, “The Effective Ombudsman Institution: A Catalyst for Good Governance,” saying it was apt.

Dr Abbas also pledged the support of the House to enable the PCC to fully realize its objectives.

“The National Assembly, as the custodian of the people’s sovereignty, recognizes the strategic importance of the PCC in promoting good governance.

“Under my leadership, the 10th House of Representatives remains committed to strengthening the Commission through effective legislation, oversight, and resource distribution.

“Recently, the House has reviewed legal frameworks related to anti-corruption efforts, administrative justice, and citizen engagement to ensure coordination among key accountability bodies.

“The National Assembly will continue to play a vital role in realizing this vision. We will work with you to promote reforms that ensure the Commission’s operational independence, financial stability, and strength. The House of Representatives, through its committees, will collaborate with the PCC to review its enabling Act, improve inter-agency cooperation, and secure funding for technology, training, and outreach. We also propose a structured mechanism for regular reporting to turn the PCC’s findings into practical policy recommendations.

“This will strengthen the Commission and bolster accountability, supporting our democracy. The goal is a modern, proactive, people-centred Public Complaints Commission, internationally benchmarked, embodying the justice envisioned fifty years ago”, he said.

The Speaker commended the
chief commissioner, other federal commissioners, and the entire members of staff of the PCC for their dedication to duty, saying that the Commission has consistently upheld the vision of its founders as well as maintaning the moral integrity of Nigeria’s civil service.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace