President Bola Tinubu has officially rejected a proposed bill aimed at extending the service duration of National Assembly employees by five years. The legislation sought to raise the retirement age from 60 to 65 years and to adjust the years of service required for retirement from 35 to 40 years, contrary to the current law, which mandates retirement at 60 years of age or after 35 years of service.
The bill, which sparked significant debate among senators, was initially turned down but was later revisited and passed following pressure from labor unions representing the workers. However, in a letter addressed to the Senate on Tuesday, President Tinubu stated that after a thorough review, he has chosen to withhold his assent to the bill.
In related developments, President Tinubu also highlighted a Supplementary Budget Proposal, which aligns with the Federal Capital Territory Administration’s revised revenue and expenditure estimates. This budget is designed to support the federal government’s fiscal policies and its Renewed Hope Agenda. The Senate has approved a statutory budget for the FCT for 2024, totaling N1.282 trillion—an increase of N135 billion from the initial proposal. The budget aims to enhance human capital and infrastructure within the Federal Capital Territory.
