President Bola Tinubu has refused to approve a bill aimed at extending the service years of legislative officers at the National Assembly and state Houses of Assembly. The bill proposed increasing the service years from 35 to 40 and raising the retirement age from 60 to 65.
In a letter addressed to the Senate and read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Tinubu explained that after careful consideration, he chose to withhold his assent, exercising his constitutional powers. The bill, which has faced opposition since its introduction in previous assemblies, was first delayed in February 2024 for further consultation with stakeholders.
Tinubu expressed his appreciation for the Senate’s efforts in drafting the bill and urged for understanding of his decision. The Senate resumed its legislative session today after an eight-week recess, with Akpabio presiding over the sitting.