President Bola Tinubu has declined assent to a bill that aimed to extend the retirement age of legislative staff at the National Assembly and state Houses of Assembly.
The bill forwarded to President Tinubu sought to increase the retirement age of staff working at the National and State Houses of Assemblies from 60 to 65 years.
The president’s declined assent was conveyed in a letter read on the floor of the Senate, on Tuesday, by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.
According to Channels TV, the Retirement Age Bill was first stepped down in February 2024 for further research and consultation with stakeholders after a significant number of senators voted against it.
The bill, first introduced during the 7th Assembly, was transmitted to the 9th Assembly, where it suffered a standstill, and subsequently to the 10th Senate.
The President’s letter read: “I write, in respect of the Harmonized Retirement Age for the Legislative Officers. Upon thorough examination and careful consideration, I have decided to withhold my assent to the bill.
“This decision is made by 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 with regard to the drafting and passage of this Bill. I hope you will receive it with understanding. Please accept the assurances of my highest regard.“
