Akpabio, Abbas Push for Merit-Based Reforms in National Assembly Appointments
Akpabio, Abbas Push for Merit-Based Reforms in National Assembly Appointments
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has revealed plans, alongside Senate President Godswill Akpabio, to amend the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC) Act to ensure transparency and merit-based appointments for key positions, including the Clerk to the National Assembly.
Speaking in Abuja during a meeting with the outgoing chairman and members of the NASC, Abbas emphasized the need for a well-structured succession plan to address recurring challenges in the appointment of the Clerk and other critical roles.
“One persistent challenge facing the National Assembly Service Commission has been the lack of a well-defined succession plan. The recurring crisis surrounding the appointment of the Clerk to the National Assembly and other key positions highlights the need for an urgent reform,” Abbas stated.
He continued, “To address this, I am pleased to inform you that the National Assembly, led by my counterpart in the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, along with myself, has initiated amendments to the NASC Act. These amendments aim to streamline the qualifications and processes for appointing key officers, thereby ensuring merit-based and transparent succession.
“Furthermore, the amendments will provide new entrants into the service with clear guidelines on career progression, eliminating controversies surrounding promotions and aligning the scheme of service with the broader vision of the Commission and the National Assembly.”
Abbas stressed that the legislative arm of government cannot afford disruptions caused by unclear succession plans, adding that the proposed amendments would enhance stability and efficiency within the service.
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Outgoing NASC Chairman Ahmed Kadi Amshi presented a 13-page document outlining the commission’s achievements and challenges over the past five years. He noted that the current Clerk to the National Assembly, Sani Magaji Tambuwal, would retire in five days, with his successor, Kamoru Ogunlana, working alongside the outgoing board for only five days before their tenure ends.
The proposed amendments reflect a commitment to promoting professionalism and reducing controversies in the National Assembly Service Commission’s operations.
