The internship programme held from 14–15 October 2025 at The Palms Hotel, Abuja, with support from the European Union, this two days orientation programme was designed to fully prepare the new cohort of PLAC Legislative Interns for their placement at the National Assembly. The sessions combined deep institutional knowledge, real-world legislative experience, and practical survival tips to help the interns hit the ground running.

Workshop Highlights by Day

Day 1 – Tuesday, 14 October Focused on building a solid understanding of how the legislature works and why it matters.

• Official opening and welcome addresses delivered by: → Clement Nwankwo (Executive Director, PLAC) → Laolu Olawumi (EU Programme Manager, Democracy and Rule of Law) → Barr. Kamorudeen Ogunlana (Clerk to the National Assembly)
• Core sessions: → The three primary roles of the National Assembly (law-making, oversight, representation) – Prof. (Hon.) Jerry Ugokwe, former Reps member and university professor → How committees drive legislation, budgeting, and investigations – Mr. Benjamin Ekeyi, legislative and public finance expert → The power of civil society and pathways for youth to influence policy – Dr. Kelechi Akubueze, National Human Rights Commission → Interactive team-building activities to help the interns bond

Day 2 – Wednesday, 15 October Shifted to the day-to-day realities of working inside the National Assembly complex. (All morning sessions moderated by PLAC Board Member, Mr. Gbenga Aruleba)

• Key sessions: → How motions, debates, and resolutions actually work – Mrs. Isabella Ilobah, former Senate Director of Committees → Promoting gender equality and inclusion through legislation – Dr. Emily Ikhide, Head of Gender & Inclusivity Unit, NILDS → Personal safety and security protocols inside the National Assembly – Mr. Manasseh Aliyuda, Sergeant-at-Arms → “What I wish I knew on my first day” – candid experience-sharing session with former PLAC interns

By the end of the programme, participants left with a clear picture of legislative processes, committee dynamics, professional conduct, security awareness, and practical advice from people who have walked the same corridors ready and confident to begin their internships.