President Tinubu Rejects Bill to Extend National Assembly Staff Retirement Age

President Bola Tinubu has rejected the harmonized version of the bill seeking to extend National Assembly staff’s service year by five years.

The bill aimed to increase the retirement age to 65 years or 40 years of service, up from 60 years or 35 years. It had passed the House of Representatives but was initially rejected by the Senate due to controversy.

However, the Senate reconsidered and passed the bill, sending it to the President for assent. In a letter to lawmakers, read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Tinubu explained his rejection.

“I write in respect of the harmonized retirement age for legislative officers… Upon thorough examination and careful consultation, I have decided to withhold my assent to the bill,” Tinubu stated.

Tinubu cited his constitutional powers and appreciated the Senate’s diligent work. “I wish to express my sincere appreciation for the diligent work of the Senate… However, I trust that this decision would be received with understanding and acceptance.”

Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, the bill’s sponsor, argued that extending retirement age would protect institutional memory, citing examples from America and the UK.

Despite this, senators Enyinnaya Abaribe, Ali Ndume, and Mohammed Dandutse opposed the bill, leading to its rejection.