Harmonized retirement bill for NASS staff hits the rock as Tinubu refuses assent

President Bola Tinubu has declined assent for the harmonized bill aimed at extending the service period of National Assembly (NASS) staff by five years, which would have increased the retirement age to 65 years or 40 years of service.

NASS staff are currently required to retire at the mandatory 60 years of age or after 35 years of service, as applicable in the civil service.

The bill underwent a turbulent journey, passing a third reading in the House of Representatives before facing initial rejection by the Senate due to lawmakers’ disagreement.

However, in a surprising turn of events, the Senate reconsidered and passed the bill and sent it to the president for assent.

Tinubu, in a letter to lawmakers read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Tuesday, explained that his decision to reject the bill was informed by a thorough examination and extensive consultations.

He said: “I write in respect of the harmonised retirement age for legislative officers of the national assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria bill passed by the National Assembly and forwarded to me for assent.

“Upon thorough examination and careful consultation, I have decided to withhold my assent to the bill. This decision is made under the powers vested in me by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“I wish to express my sincere appreciation for the diligent work of the Senate as regards the drafting and passage of this bill. However, I trust that this decision would be received with understanding and acceptance.”