NILDS DG COMMENDS HANSARD REPORTERS, REAFFIRMS SUPPORT FOR CAPACITY BUILDING

Director General, National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies, NILDS, Prof. Abubakar O. Sulaiman has commended the Association of Hansard/Verbatim Reporters of Nigeria, AHVRN, for its commitment to strengthening legislative reporting and preserving Nigeria’s parliamentary heritage.

Speaking at the Annual Delegates Conference of AHVRN in Abuja, themed “Preserving Legislative History: The Role of Hansard Reporters and Modern Technology (AI),” Prof. Sulaiman described Hansard and Verbatim Reporters as a critical component of the legislative support system, noting that their work provides the institutional memory, transparency, and accountability essential to effective legislative practice

He emphasised that accurate records of parliamentary debates, committee proceedings, and public hearings serve as an authoritative source for legislators, researchers, journalists, citizens, and legal practitioners seeking to understand legislative intent and decisions.

The NILDS DG also stressed the importance of embracing modern technology, including artificial intelligence, to enhance legislative reporting while urging practitioners to remain circumspect about the emerging challenges associated with its application.

Prof. Sulaiman reaffirmed NILDS’ commitment to building the capacity of Hansard/Verbatim Reporters and other legislative support staff through its customised training and academic programmes, assuring AHVRN of the Institute’s continued partnership and support.