User:Jakedanazumi/sandbox/National Institute for Legislative Studies

National Institute for Legislative Studies The National Institute for Legislative Studies (NILS) is an organ of the National Assembly established by an Act of Parliament. President Goodluck Jonathan signed into law the National Institute for Legislative Studies Act 2011 on March 2nd 2011 following the passage of the same by the Senate and the House of Representatives. NILS builds on the successes of the Policy Analysis and Research Project (PARP), established in 2003 as a capacity building institution of the National Assembly with the financial support of the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF). For over 7 years PARP’s programmes strengthened the capacities of legislators and legislative staff through requisite research and analytical support and projected the positions and proposals advanced by the National Assembly.

Vision The vision of NILS is to be a world class facility that would support the sustenance of dynamic and effective Legislature in Nigeria (at Federal, State and Local level), and the sub-region.

Objectives 	To act as a world class multi-disciplinary institution capable of providing training, capacity building, research, policy analysis and extension services for the legislature at the Federal, State and Local government levels. 	To promote best practices in legislative activities in Nigeria and countries in the sub-region. 	To strengthen democratic processes, structures and institutions. 	To promote and disseminate among Legislative Assemblies in Nigeria the practice of science based methodologies of law-making. 	To improve capacity of Legislators to sustain and consolidate democratic governance through deliberation and policy formulation. 	Improve the technical capacity of legislative staff, committee secretaries and political aides to process appropriation bills and policy oversight of the executive. 	To assist the National Assembly and State Assemblies in their efforts to conceive and draft bills. 	To design, analyse and evaluate development policies in Nigeria 	To establish and/or consolidate a database on relevant development policy issues for utilization in deliberations on bills and drafting of legislation. 	To stock and improve the quality of relevant information, for members of the national and state assemblies and the general public through the dissemination of research output and the organization of consultative fora for the public sector, as well as representatives of the private sector and civil society. 	To monitor and evaluate the implementation of annual budgets and report to the relevant assemblies. 	To prepare such reports and information, as may be required by Special/Standing Committees in the course of their work 	To support networking arrangements involving parliaments and policy analysis units in the sub-region in order to share experiences. To act as a world class multi-disciplinary institution capable of providing training, capacity building, research, policy analysis and extension services for the legislature at the Federal, State and Local government levels. 	To promote best practices in legislative activities in Nigeria and countries in the sub-region. 	To strengthen democratic processes, structures and institutions. 	To promote and disseminate among Legislative Assemblies in Nigeria the practice of science based methodologies of law-making. 	To promote and protect constitutional due process in legislative practices. 	To meet a long-felt need to provide the legislators and officials with institutionalized opportunities for problem-oriented studies and systematic training in the various disciplines of legislative institutions, processes and procedures. 	To improve capacity of Legislators to sustain and consolidate democratic governance through deliberation and policy formulation. 	Improve the technical capacity of legislative staff, committee secretaries and political aides to process appropriation bills and policy oversight of the executive. 	To assist the National Assembly and State Assemblies in their efforts to conceive and draft bills. 	To design, analyse and evaluate development policies in Nigeria, especially dealing with macro-economic, socio-political and cultural issues, as may be necessary from time to time. 	To conduct short-term training modules for members of the national and state assemblies and their staff. 	To establish and/or consolidate a database on relevant development policy issues for utilization in deliberations on bills and drafting of legislation. 	To stock and improve the quality of relevant information, for members of the national and state assemblies and the general public through the dissemination of research output and the organization of consultative fora for the public sector, as well as representatives of the private sector and civil society. 	To monitor and evaluate the implementation of annual budgets and report to the relevant assemblies. 	To prepare such reports and information, as may be required by Special/Standing Committees in the course of their work. 	To support networking arrangements involving parliaments and policy analysis units in the sub-region in order to share experiences. '''Services of NILS '''Some of the key services provided by NILS cover the following areas: 	Training Through its training programmes, NILS enhances capacities of parliamentarians and parliamentary staff to become more effective in carrying out their mandate. 	Teaching and Research NILS is involved in active research on current and emerging key issues, legislation and policy reviews. 	Legislative Support Services Good and effective legislation is the foundation of every functioning state based on the rule of law. Laws should be adopted through democratic procedures and be clear and concise. To ensure the quality and effectiveness of laws, NILS is actively involved in the following: •	Legislative Drafting •	Drafting of Motions and Resolutions •	Bill Analysis and Scrutiny 	Library and Publications: The Institute’s Library offers a wide range of research, analysis and information services to both legislators, legislative staff and other researchers in general. The NILS’ library is a special library devoted to legislative studies. While these areas are of special concern, the Library strives to maintain a basic reference collection on many subjects that include: economics, law, political science, public administration, social issues, and history. The library has four sections: Archives, e-library, general circulation and reference 	Networking NILS works to facilitate: o	Conversation and exchange between elected officials and stakeholders at the state, local, national and regional levels. o	Connect elected officials for dialogue and exchange. o	Provide elected officials with educational opportunities and resources on critical national issues. o	Build a network of individuals committed to strengthening the legislature. 	Democracy NILS supports sustainable democracy in Nigeria and beyond. The Institute does this by providing comparative knowledge, assisting in democratic reform, and providing policy development and analysis. 	ICT & NILS Legislative Databank NILS provides providing comprehensive access to national, regional and international legal information. The database contains links to the original texts of laws, ordinances, decrees and decisions. These are systematically classified under Nigerian Laws, Laws of African Countries and Global Laws. The Institute also manages the National Assembly website, legal research website and the Africa Legislative Summit website. The institute is also developing a parliamentary database for the West Africa sub-region in addition to database on Africa Legislative Summit and NILS. '''NILS Training Programmes '''Categories of Training NILS organizes two types of training programmes for the legislature: national courses and international courses. The national courses are those organized within Nigeria and target legislators and parliamentary staff in the National Assembly, State Assemblies and Local Councils. The courses offered by NILS take the form of supply-driven open courses and demand driven tailored courses. The open courses are courses that are advertised and open to the legislatures and stakeholders at the Federal, State and Local government levels. They are to be paid for by the participants. Tailored programmes are programmes designed to meet the specific needs, problems and issues of specific organizations. They are normally conducted on request and at venues and dates convenient to the client. Lower- tier legislatures are required to pay for tailor- made programmes. In the light of these, the local capacity building programmes take the following forms: 	Tailored short-term programmes for members and staff of the National Assembly; 	Open programmes, advertised and paid for by general participants (including officials from State and Local Assemblies); 	Open programmes in Nigeria resourced and certified by international institutes. 	Tailored programmes for State and Local Assemblies; 	Seminars and specialized workshops for legislators and officials of the National and State Assemblies; 	Tailor made training programmes for Principal Officers of the National and State Assemblies on topics related to parliamentary leadership and development. 	Annual Legislative Summit 	Annual Conference of Nigerian Legislatures. 	Tailored programmes for the Military in democracy. 	Training, attachments and study visits/tours of the presiding officers, members and officials of legislatures in the West African Sub-region and invited African countries, academics, scholars, and students from within and outside the country; 	Training, attachments and study visits/tours of the presiding officers, members and staff of National Assembly 	Exchange visits by, academics, scholars, and students from within and outside the country; 	Facilitation of study visits to Nigeria by foreign researchers, academics, legislators and scholars. Workshops, Seminars, Lecture Series and Round-Table Discussions for Legislators The Institute organizes one-day seminars for legislators and parliamentary officials on various topics of parliamentary interest with a view to ensuring better appreciation of the topics. To this end, seminars on topics of contemporary importance in areas of economic, political and social developments are organized to enable legislators to acquire deeper and broader understanding of complex national and international issues. Seminars also feature issues relating to different parliamentary systems and methods of operations, good practices in parliamentary procedures and governance. International Training Programmes for Legislators The International Training Programme has two aspects: 	Programmes organized by NILS for foreign legislators and parliamentary staff; and 	Programmes arranged for NASS legislators and parliamentary staff in foreign training institutions. 	Internship programmes NILS has an array of training programmes for the legislators carried out in collaboration with reputable foreign training institutions. The international programmes involve some of the following broad themes: 	Governance and Leadership 	Public Governance Skills 	Policy and Strategic Planning 	Parliamentary Processes and Oversight Performance 	Community Development 	Democracy and Good Governance 	Peace and Conflict Studies 	Legislature-Stakeholder Relations 	Poverty Alleviation and Social Development 	Budget Process and Financial Management 	Economic Development and Management 	Legislative Research and Public Policy 	Gender Development and Management 	Information and Communication Technology International Training Programmes for Legislative Staff Trainings are undertaken in the following areas among others: 	Management and policy development skills 	Leadership skills 	Oversight 	Policy making and legislation 	Strategic planning and management 	Parliaments and financial oversight 	Comparative legislative practice 	Congressional budgeting and appropriation 	Advanced legislative strategies 	Performance and productivity NILS is also involved in tailored special workshops and seminars for the National and State Legislators and Parliamentary Staff. These are designed to meet the peculiar capacity building needs of NASS Legislators and different categories of parliamentary officials. These can only be delivered to State Assemblies and Local Councils on request. Training for State Houses of Assembly Legislatures in Nigeria exists at the three tiers of government: federal, state and local governments. However, the legislature at the federal level (Senate and House of Representatives) is more developed with greater capacity than its counterparts at the other tiers of government. State legislatures are faced with capacity problems due to inadequate understanding of their roles as set out in the rules regulating them. Also, state legislatures sometimes lack quality information necessary to perform daunting tasks essential for legislation. NILS organises training programmes on legislative practice and procedure for State Houses of Assembly for more effective performance. The Institute’s training programmes cover a range of topics including report writing, parliamentary administration, role of legislative aides, budget process, legislative oversight activities, committee system and legal drafting, among others. The training programmes target legislators, committee staff and legislative aides.

'''Training for Local Government Officials '''The 774 Local Governments in Nigeria constitute the third tier of Government which has the mandate to facilitate development at the community/rural level. It is therefore important that the human resource capacity of local government officials is continuously strengthened and upgraded to enhance the effectiveness of local governments in social services delivery. NILS deeply engaged in continuing education for local government officials. The Institute’s training programmes are well targeted to equip the staff of local governments and other relevant stakeholders with the apt knowledge and professional skills needed for effective service delivery at local government level. Other objectives of the training programmes include: •	To orientate other relevant stakeholders on the administration of local government, and on their role towards sustainable grassroots development •	To improve people’s understanding of good democratic system and local governance as well as the process of achieving them •	To impact modern technological knowhow required for a sustainable grassroots development

'''Focus of NILS Training Programmes '''The job of legislating demands knowledge of unique skills and concepts not learned in the course of normal educational or career experiences. In light of the human capacity development needs of modern legislatures, the training programmes offered by NILS seek to expose the legislators and parliamentary staff to rules and procedures, oversight performance and procedures, committee activities and issues relating to economic development, social development, health, education, environment, demography, diplomacy and negotiation, international relations, gender issues, political parties, public finance, banking and finance. The training modules are developed around the following themes, among others: 	The Legislative Process and Constitution; 	Parliamentary Rules, Practice and Procedures; 	Legislative Capacity Development and Institution Building 	Committee Procedures; 	Committee Management 	The Budget Process and Principles; 	Oversight Functions and Public Interest; 	Budget Tracking, Monitoring and Evaluation; 	 Budget Process, Budgeting and Control; 	Legislative Diction, Ethics and Culture; 	Conflict Management and Resolution; 	Bill Analysis and Tracking; 	Legislative Drafting; 	Constituency Service, Outreach and Relations; 	Legislative Administration; 	Legislative Research and Policy Analysis; 	Governance and Leadership; 	Executive-Legislature Interface; 	Military-Civil Relations 	Inter and Intra-Parliamentary Relations and Networking 	Legislative and Public Finance Management; 	Information and Communications Technology. 	Communicating with Stakeholders '''Training Strategy and Methods '''	In order to achieve its capacity building objectives, the Institute’s strategy is to ensure that training programmes, workshops and seminars add value to the participants. To this end, both the open and tailored programmes take cognizance of the needs of the prospective participants and are delivered by facilitators with a good blend of academic and practical knowledge. 	The Institute recognizes that individuals respond to different teaching and learning styles. It therefore adopts a variety of pedagogic approaches, which enable the participant to be actively involved in the learning process. To this end, both traditional and modern styles of training are used to ensure that all personality types are effectively carried along within every program. Specifically, the Institute ensures that there is an adequate mix of lectures, audio-visual presentations, case studies, individual exercises and assessments, syndicate and seminar discussions, group projects/assignments, and role playing. Participants are also taken on field trips to public and private institutions, and industries relevant to the course to enhance their understanding and practical experiences. Fees 	Fees will be charged for all open programmes. Demand driven tailor made programs will also be paid for. However, the Institute will subsidize trainings for State Assemblies and could provide scholarships where necessary. 	Also available are NILS-CAP Project supports programmes funded by ACBF and the ECOWAS Parliament.

Research at NILS Research and Policy Analysis An important objective of NILS is the dissemination of research output and designing/analysing policies that could be translated into legislation or imputed into the policy making process. NILS’ experts and consultants have been engaged in conducting studies and policy analysis most of which were published and disseminated for use by legislators and the general public. So far, NILS has published over 50 titles containing research and policy analysis output. Publications The Institute has published several books, policy analysis reports, manuals and guides for the legislature on areas of legislative oversight and legislative drafting, legislative practice and procedure, gender and leadership training manual, induction manual for new legislators and a code of ethics for the National Assembly. Others include important research and policy analysis reports, annual reviews of Federal Government’s Revenue and Expenditure Plans and budget analysis. Some of NILS’ important publications include the following; 1.	A Century of Law-making in Nigeria (6 vols.) 2.	40 Years of Law-making in ECOWAS 3.	The National Assembly and Democratic Governance in Nigeria 4.	Legislative Oversight: A Study of Performance in Nigeria National Assembly 5.	Committees in the Nigeria National Assembly 6.	National Assembly Gender Strategy & Training Manual 7.	Legislative Oversight Manual 8.	Legislative Practice and Procedure 9.	Induction Manual for New Legislators 10.	Code of Ethics for the National Assembly 11.	14 years law making 4th-6th national assembly: an analysis of bills processed vols. 1-4 12.	Annual Reviews of Government’s Revenue and Expenditure Plans 13.	Removal Process of the Chief Executive under the 1999 Constitution 14.	Nigeria’s Social Indicators for Policy and Legislative Guide 15.	The East-Asian Export Driven Economics Growth: Lesson for Nigeria 16.	Various Reports of Senate Retreats: 2007, 2008, 2009 17.	Committees in the Nigeria National Assembly: a Study of the Performance of Legislative Functions 18.	Assessing Legislation: a Manual for Legislators 19.	Various Reports of Retreats on Budget for Appropriation and Finance Committee of the National Assembly 20.	National Assembly Statistical Information vol.2 no.1, 2008 21.	Report of Stakeholders Interfaces i & ii on a Public Communication Policy for the National Assembly 22.	Nigeria State Assemblies: a Study of Legislative Activities 2006-2007 23.	Nigeria State Assemblies: a Study of Legislative Activities 1999-2005 24.	National Statistical Information vol.3, 2009 25.	National Assembly of Nigeria Directory 6th National Assembly (2007-2011) – vols. 1-5 26.	Nigeria Journal of Legislative Affairs vols. 1-6 27.	Review of the 2013 – 2015 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and fiscal strategy paper (FSP) of the Federal Government of Nigeria. 28.	Delays in Enactment of Appropriation Bills in Nigeria: Implications for Capital Budgets Implementation. 29.	Analysis of Pro-Poor Components of Annual Budget of Federal Government of Nigeria, 2000-2011 30.	The International Conference on Law Reform & Law Making Process 31.	Assessing Legislation Manual, a Manual for Legislators

'''Nigeria Journal of Legislative Affairs '''The Nigerian Journal of Legislative Affairs (NJLA) was established in 2011 with the sole aim of being at the forefront of cutting-edge research in all aspects of legislative research and development, particularly as they pertain to emerging democracies and legislatures. It therefore provides a forum for publication of timely, rigorous, technically sound, and scientific research manuscripts that focus on the legislature. Despite its global perspective therefore, specific attention is given to the African context. The Journal strives to disseminate knowledge and bring together the scientific and professional communities. Articles, original research papers, synthesis papers and editorials are welcomed from scholars and practitioners.

The National Institute for Legislative Studies (NILS) is an organ of the National Assembly established by an Act of Parliament. President Goodluck Jonathan signed into law the National Institute for Legislative Studies Act 2011 on March 2nd 2011 following the passage of the same by the Senate and the House of Representatives. NILS builds on the successes of the Policy Analysis and Research Project (PARP), established in 2003 as a capacity building institution of the National Assembly with the financial support of the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF). For over 7 years PARP’s programmes strengthened the capacities of legislators and legislative staff through requisite research and analytical support and projected the positions and proposals advanced by the National Assembly.

'''NILS’ Databank '''As an organ of the National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, established by an Act of Parliament, NILS is mandated to run and maintain quality and world class libraries and database on the legislative system and democratic governance. To do service to this mandate, the Databank is launched with the objective of providing comprehensive access to national, regional and international legal information. The laws are systematically classified under Nigerian Laws, Laws of African Countries and Global Laws. Each of these categories has detailed contents that ensure both comprehensiveness and simplicity of access. Teaching at NILS Postgraduate Programmes NILS Postgraduate Diploma and Master’s Degree Programmes in the following areas will commence in October, 2013 and October, 2014 respectively: 1.	Legislative Drafting 2.	Parliamentary Administration 3.	Legislative Studies These programmes are available on both full-time and part time basis and are administered in affiliation with the University of Benin, Nigeria and in collaboration with the Centre for Legislative Studies, University of Hull, United Kingdom. All lectures will be conducted at the training facilities in Maitama, Abuja, Nigeria. The Institute conducts and supports research in a wide range of topics. Our students can hope to benefit from thorough and standard supervision with the view to preparing them for careers in academics and in state and private organisations. During your time at NILS you can look forward to participating in rich and exciting seminars that bring together academics, statesmen and politicians to share their research and experience. Also, you can benefit tremendously from the annual international conferences organized by the Institute, i.e. the International Conference on Emerging Democracies and the Annual Africa Legislative Summit. Your participation in the research activities of the Institute will enrich your postgraduate experience and stimulate your own ideas as well as improve the quality of your research. As a student of NILS, you will have at your disposal dedicated staff and facilities to enhance your research and student experience. Our library does not only house extensive collection of books and manuscripts, it is equally functional, adaptable, accessible, varied, interactive, conducive, environmentally suitable, safe and secure, efficient and suitable for information technology. It also has a common room and a kitchen. Our Computer Room contains fully networked computers with internet access. The duration of the full-time postgraduate diploma programmes is a minimum of two (2) semesters and a maximum of four (4) semesters. While the duration of the part-time postgraduate diploma programme is a minimum of four (4) semesters and a maximum of six (6) semesters. The duration of the full-time Master’s Degree programme is a minimum of six (4) semesters and a maximum of six (6) semesters. While the duration of the part-time Master’s Degree programme is a minimum of six (6) semesters and a maximum of eight (8) semesters.

'''Postgraduate Diploma in Legislative Studies '''Fast Facts Duration |Full-time 1 year; part-time 2 years Entry Requirements |Five (5) credit passes at the ordinary level, including English Language and Mathematics; Relevant bachelor’s degree from a recognized university, not below 3rd class, in a related area; Relevant bachelor’s degree from a recognized university, not below 2nd class (lower division) for backgrounds not closely related; Higher National Diploma (HND), Upper Credit, from a recognized institution; Relevant professional qualifications Requirements for Graduation |To be awarded the Postgraduate Diploma, a candidate must have passed a minimum of thirty (30) credit units made up of: 15 Units of core courses; 9 Units of elective courses, and; 6 Units of research project Contact |Prof. Amucheazi Offornze or Dr. Jake Dan-Azumi: offornze@yahoo.com.; or j.danazumi@ymail.com

'''About the programme '''The programmes are guided by the belief that it is only by appropriate and effective education of the populace and capacity building of legislators and legislative staff in democratic governance and legislative practices and procedures that genuine and functional democracies can emerge across the world. The postgraduate programmes have two main objectives. The first objective is to equip legislators and legislative staff at all tiers of government with the knowledge and skills required for improved performance of their various functions. The second objective is to provide opportunities for members of the public who are interested in the practice and procedure of the legislature to familiarize themselves with the operating procedures of this branch of government. The specific objectives of each programme are outlined in the relevant sections. Programme Content This programme is made up of general compulsory, core and elective modules and a 15,000-word dissertation. Modules Nigeria: Economy, State and Society Research Methods and Report Writing Constitutional Law Fundamentals of the Law Making Process Structure, Powers and Functions of Legislature Parliamentary Financial Management Bill Analysis Legislative Oversight and Investigations The Democratic Process Comparative Politics and Government Legislative-Executive-Relations Parliament and the Citizen Research Project Further module information Modules are delivered by seminar to small groups of students.

Assessment Assessment of students’ achievements shall be based on a continuous assessment and course examination: Continuous assessment: This shall be through essays, tests, term papers, tutorial exercises, quizzes, homework and attendance at seminars. Examination: In addition to continuous assessment, final examinations shall be given for every course at the end of every semester. The total score obtained in continuous assessment and final examinations in every course is a 100 per cent. The breakdown shall be: continuous assessment, 30 %, final examination, 70%, total 100%. Each course shall normally be completed and examined at the end of the semester in which it is offered. Postgraduate Diploma in Parliamentary Administration Fast Facts Duration |Full-time 1 year; part-time 2 years Entry Requirements |Five (5) credit passes at the ordinary level, including English Language and Mathematics; Relevant bachelor’s degree from a recognized university, not below 3rd class, in a related area; Relevant bachelor’s degree from a recognized university, not below 2nd class (lower division) for backgrounds not closely related; Higher National Diploma (HND), Upper Credit, from a recognized institution; Relevant professional qualifications Requirements for Graduation |To be awarded the Postgraduate Diploma, a candidate must have passed a minimum of thirty (30) credit units made up of: 15 Units of core courses; 9 Units of elective courses, and; 6 Units of research project Contact |Prof. Amucheazi Offornze or Dr. Jake Dan-Azumi: offornze@yahoo.com.; or j.danazumi@ymail.com

About the programme The Postgraduate Diploma Programme in Parliamentary Administration is driven by the need to improve efficiency and effectiveness in the running of parliaments. It focuses on the needs of parliamentary officers at all levels of government. The main objective of the Postgraduate Diploma Programme is to equip practicing parliamentary officers and those interested in parliamentary administration with improved knowledge and skills for better performance of relevant functions. It is expected that local, state, and federal parliamentary officers will benefit from the programme. Students are expected to register for and pass all compulsory courses and at least three (3) elective courses Programme Content This programme is made up of general compulsory, core and elective modules and a 15,000-word dissertation. Modules Nigeria: Economy, State and Society Research Methods and Report Writing Introduction to Public Administration Constitutional Law Structure, Powers and Functions of Legislature Parliamentary Practice and Procedure Legislative Strategic Planning and Management Research Project Legislative Oversight and Investigations Information Management in Parliament The Democratic Process Comparative Politics and Government Legislative-Executive-Relations Parliament and the Citizen Further module information Modules are delivered by seminar to small groups of students.

Assessment Assessment of students’ achievements shall be based on a continuous assessment and course examination: Continuous assessment: This shall be through essays, tests, term papers, tutorial exercises, quizzes, homework and attendance at seminars. Examination: In addition to continuous assessment, final examinations shall be given for every course at the end of every semester. The total score obtained in continuous assessment and final examinations in every course is a 100 per cent. The breakdown shall be: continuous assessment, 30 %, final examination, 70%, total 100%. Each course shall normally be completed and examined at the end of the semester in which it is offered. '''Postgraduate Diploma in Legislative Drafting '''Fast Facts Duration |Full-time 1 year; part-time 2 years Entry Requirements |Five (5) credit passes at the ordinary level, including English Language and Mathematics; Relevant bachelor’s degree from a recognized university, not below 3rd class, in a related area; Relevant bachelor’s degree from a recognized university, not below 2nd class (lower division) for backgrounds not closely related; Higher National Diploma (HND), Upper Credit, from a recognized institution; Relevant professional qualifications Requirements for Graduation |To be awarded the Postgraduate Diploma, a candidate must have passed a minimum of thirty (30) credit units made up of: 15 Units of core courses; 9 Units of elective courses, and; 6 Units of research project Contact |Prof. Amucheazi Offornze or Dr. Jake Dan-Azumi: offornze@yahoo.com.; or j.danazumi@ymail.com

About the programme The Postgraduate Diploma in Legislative Drafting is driven by the need for improved legislative drafting capacity in the legislature. The programme is designed to produce every year a number of men and women who are equipped with the knowledge and skills required for the drafting of legislation in modern legislatures. Students are expected to register for and pass all compulsory courses and at least three (3) elective courses Programme Content This programme is made up of general compulsory, core and elective modules and a 15,000-word dissertation. Modules Nigeria: Economy, State and Society Research Methods and Report Writing Introduction to Legislative Drafting Legislative Style, Syntax and Expression Constitutional Law Drafting Process Research Project Legislative Structure and Arrangement Drafting Subsidiary Legislation Legislative Oversight and Investigations Substantive and Penal Provisions Legislative-Executive-Relations Parliament and the Citizen Further module information Modules are delivered by seminar to small groups of students.

Assessment Assessment of students’ achievements shall be based on a continuous assessment and course examination: Continuous assessment: This shall be through essays, tests, term papers, tutorial exercises, quizzes, homework and attendance at seminars. Examination: In addition to continuous assessment, final examinations shall be given for every course at the end of every semester. The total score obtained in continuous assessment and final examinations in every course is a 100 per cent. The breakdown shall be: continuous assessment, 30 %, final examination, 70%, total 100%. Each course shall normally be completed and examined at the end of the semester in which it is offered. '''Master’s Degree in Legislative Studies '''Fast Facts Duration |Full-time 2 years; part-time 3 years Entry Requirements | Matriculation requirements of 5 credits including English and Mathematics; A bachelor’s degree in a relevant area from a recognized university, with a minimum of Second Class Lower Division; A postgraduate diploma in a relevant area from a recognized institution with at least 60% CGPA. Requirements for Graduation |To be awarded a master’s degree, a candidate must obtain a minimum of thirty-three (33) credit unit made up as follows: Core courses of 15 credit units; Elective courses of 9 credit units; A student shall carry out research in any area of specialization in his/her discipline and submit an acceptable dissertation of 6 credit units; A student shall present at least one (1) seminar of 3 credit units Contact | | Prof. Amucheazi Offornze: offornze@yahoo.com

About the programme The Master's Degree Program in legislative studies is guided by the need to provide in-depth training in the theory and practice of law making. The idea is to bring greater intellectual depth and breadth to the Programme so that candidates would not only be technically qualified persons, they would also be effective policy advisors to their Governments. The program is designed to produce knowledgeable and competent personnel for legislatures, general administration and research. The Program emphasizes the legislative process, procedure, practice, the relationship between the legislature and other branches of government. Using a variety of pedagogical options including class room lectures, spending time in the legislature, meeting with legislators and staff, our students will have the opportunity to learn from and exchange ideas with academicians and experts with experience in the legislative process. Programme Content This programme is made up of general compulsory, core and elective modules and a dissertation. Modules Nigeria: Economy, State and Society Research Methods and Report Writing Structure, Functions and Powers of the Legislature Nigerian Legal System & Legal Process Comparative Legislative Practice and Procedure Constitutional law Budget and Appropriation Process Bill process, Analysis and Scrutiny Parliamentary Committees and the Legislative Process The Democratic Process Parliaments in the Modern World: Contemporary Issues Electoral Process Challenges for African Legislatures Political Parties and Parliamentary Politics Law, Development and Social Change Labour Law and Industrial Relations International Law Civil-Military Relations MLS Seminars Dissertation Further module information Modules are delivered by seminar to small groups of students.

Assessment Assessment of a student’s achievement shall be based on: Examination; Seminars/term papers; Oral presentations and problem solving exercises; Assignments; Group project work and Dissertation. Master’s Degree in Parliamentary Administration Fast Facts Duration |Full-time 2 years; part-time 3 years Entry Requirements | Matriculation requirements of 5 credits including English and Mathematics; A bachelor’s degree in a relevant area from a recognized university, with a minimum of Second Class Lower Division; A postgraduate diploma in a relevant area from a recognized institution with at least 60% CGPA. Requirements for Graduation |To be awarded a master’s degree, a candidate must obtain a minimum of thirty-three (33) credit unit made up as follows: Core courses of 15 credit units; Elective courses of 9 credit units; A student shall carry out research in any area of specialization in his/her discipline and submit an acceptable dissertation of 6 credit units; A student shall present at least one (1) seminar of 3 credit units Contact | | Prof. Amucheazi Offornze: offornze@yahoo.com

About the programme The aim of the programmes in Parliamentary Administration is to provide insight into theory, practice, empirical research and sources in the field of parliamentary administration. The course is particularly aimed at parliamentary officials and other professionals working or intending to work with parliament. It is also valuable to everyone who wishes to deepen his/her understanding of Parliamentary administration. The course encourages students to reflect on the practice of the Nigerian parliament and to envisage ways of improving parliamentary practice. The objective of this programme is to produce for the emerging democracies men and women with extensive practical knowledge of the workings of legislatures. It will draw on expert teaching and independent research to produce uniquely qualified practitioners. The programme provides the necessary background for a variety of careers in, notably, the civil service, politics, and political consultancy, as well as further research. Programme Content This programme is made up of general compulsory, core and elective modules and a dissertation. Modules Nigeria: Economy, State and Society Research Methods and Report Writing Comparative Legislatures Structures, Management and Operations of Parliament Constitutional Law Information Management & Parliamentary Reporting Parliamentary Financial Management Administrative Law The Democratic Process Parliaments in the Modern World: Contemporary Issues Electoral Process Challenges for African Legislatures Political Parties and Parliamentary Politics Law, Development and Social Change Labour Law and Industrial Relations International Law Civil-Military Relations MPA seminars Dissertation

Further module information Modules are delivered by seminar to small groups of students. Assessment Assessment of a student’s achievement shall be based on: Examination; Seminars/term papers; Oral presentations and problem solving exercises; Assignments; Group project work and Dissertation. '''Master’s Degree in Legislative Drafting '''Fast Facts Duration |Full-time 2 years; part-time 3 years Entry Requirements | Matriculation requirements of 5 credits including English and Mathematics; A bachelor’s degree in a relevant area from a recognized university, with a minimum of Second Class Lower Division; A postgraduate diploma in a relevant area from a recognized institution with at least 60% CGPA. Requirements for Graduation |To be awarded a master’s degree, a candidate must obtain a minimum of thirty-three (33) credit unit made up as follows: Core courses of 15 credit units; Elective courses of 9 credit units; A student shall carry out research in any area of specialization in his/her discipline and submit an acceptable dissertation of 6 credit units; A student shall present at least one (1) seminar of 3 credit units Contact | Prof. Amucheazi Offornze: offornze@yahoo.com

About the programme The Legislative Drafting Programmes are designed to meet the need for seasoned drafters of legislation for legislatures in emerging democracies. The objective of the Programme is to train a number of participants in the art and science of Legislative Drafting to cover every conceivable area of human endeavours subject to legislation, and to enhance their techniques and skills in legislative drafting for quality legislation. Programme Content This programme is made up of general compulsory, core and elective modules and a dissertation.

Modules Nigeria: Economy, State and Society Research Methods and Report Writing Legislative Process & Drafting Legislative Style, Syntax Expression Legislative Structure and Arrangement Penal and Substantive Provisions Drafting & Domestication of Treaties and Conventions Comparative Legislative Drafting Subsidiary Legislation & Amendment Advanced Constitutional Law Drafting Tax Legislation Statute Law Revision Interpretation of Statutes The Democratic Process Parliaments in the Modern World: Contemporary Issues Electoral Process Challenges for African Legislatures Political Parties and Parliamentary Politics Law, Development and Social Change Labour Law and Industrial Relations International Law Civil-Military Relations MLD Seminar (Law-Making and Law Reforms) Dissertation Further module information Modules are delivered by seminar to small groups of students. Assessment Assessment of a student’s achievement shall be based on: Examination; Seminars/term papers; Oral presentations and problem solving exercises; Assignments; Group project work and Dissertation '''Online Post-Graduate Diploma Programme '''Objectives: The general objectives of the NILS PG Diploma are two-fold: i.	equip legislators and legislative staff at all tiers of government with the knowledge and skills required for improved performance of their various legislative drafting, Bill drafting and related functions; and ii. provide opportunities for members of the public who are interested in legislative drafting practices and procedures of the legislature to familiarise themselves with the operating procedures and processes of this branch of Government. Programme Mode: The programme is available on a full-time basis. Programme Delivery Approach: Online e-learning is the major method of delivery for the NILS PG Diploma in legislative drafting programme. In addition, Blended Learning approach that includes a combination of classroom lectures, online instruction and distance e-learning instruction through the ICT platform provided by the USA based Centre for Computer-Assisted Legal Instruction (CALI). All classroom lectures and the final examination will hold at NILS Training facilities in Abuja, F.C.T, Nigeria.

Applications Applications should be made well ahead in advance. New applications should be made early for admission in the following academic year. We offer places to applicants whose qualifications, experience, references and quality of application (including the personal statement) persuade us of their excellence. Individual interviews are held for all shortlisted applicants. These applicants must also sit a written test to assess their suitability for the programmes.

'''Structure of Nils '''Governing Council The Governing Council of the Institute is the highest governance organ of the Institute and its principal policy making arm. In this regard, it sets broad policy for the institute; approves annual work programmes and budgets, provides support for research, policy analysis and training programmes. The Council also oversees recruitment and appointment of key management staff. Financial and policy oversight of the institute is also falls under the purview of the Council. The 17-member board of the Institute has the Deputy President of the Senate as the Chairman and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives as Alternate Chairman. The pioneer members of Governing Council of the Institute are follows: Member					Status Senator Ike Ekweremadu, CFR Deputy President of the Senate		Chairman Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives	Alternate Chairman Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu		Member Senator Garba Babayo Gamawa		Member Senator Victor Rampyal Lar			Member Senator Christopher Chukwuma Nwankwo	Member Senator Emmanuel Izibefien Paulker		Member Senator Akin Babalola Kamar Odunsi	Member Hon. Samaila Abdurahman Kawu		Member Hon. John Enoh 				Member Hon.Sam Tsokwa				Member Hon. Ali Ahmed 				Member Hon. (Prof) Chudi Uwazurike			Member Hon Jimoh Afees Adelowo			Member Executive Chairman, National Assembly Service Commission	Member Salisu A. Maikasuwa, mni, Clerk to National Assembly			Member Dr. Ladi Hamalai				Member/Secretary

Office of the Director General The Director-general is the chief executive officer of the Institute and is responsible, along with the Management Board, for the day-to-day running of the Institute. The DG is assisted by a core of directors, managers and other cadres of staff in the Research, Training and Administration Departments. The holder of the office of the Director-General is at least a permanent secretary in the civil service. In addition to the five main departments, there are Ten (10) units under the Office of the Director-General, namely: DG Unit, Legal Services, Internal Audit, Protocol and Corporate Affairs, ICT, Publication, Procurement, Monitoring and Evaluation and Liaison and Consultancy Services.

Departments: Department of Legislative Support Services The Department, which is headed by a Director, has three divisions namely: - Bills and Legislative Drafting, Support for Committees and Constitution and Legislative Procedure. Each division is headed by a Deputy Director. A team of Research Fellows and Research Assistants are engaged in drafting and analysis of bills, and in providing assistance in legislative procedures. The Research & Training Department This is one of the core departments. It is headed by a Director and has two divisions namely Research and Training. Research Division - The Research division has four units, namely: Economic Research, Socio-political Research, Legal/Legislative Research, and Documentation/Library services. Each unit is headed by a Deputy Director. The Deputy Director will manage a team of Research Fellows and Research Assistants in the case of research activities, and library officers in the case of documentation/library services. The Department will be engaged in conducting in-depth studies on various areas of interest to the legislators. Through research, data collection and analysis in various areas of development policy and economic management, the Institute would be expected to assist the work of the National Assembly. It will play a leading role in enabling the National Assembly to keep abreast of cutting-edge developments, and to contribute to the shaping of development perspectives and strategies. Finance and Administration The Department, which is headed by a Director, has 2 divisions namely: – Finance and Administration and Human Resources. The divisions are headed by Deputy Directors. The Finance division has 2 units namely Accounts and Stores and Supplies. The Administration and Human Resources division has 2 units namely Assets and Maintenance and Human Resources. Each unit is supervised by a Manager to be assisted by Officers and Office Assistants. The managers are directly supervised by a Deputy Director.

Contact Jake D. Dan-Azumi, Ph.D (University College London) Research Fellow/Special Assistant to the Director-General National Institute for Legislative Studies 14/18 Danube Street Maitama Abuja, Nigeria