Onobun Seeks Repeal, Re-Enactment Of National Assembly Service Law
By Osehobo Ofure, Benin City.
As President Bola Tinubu approves the appointments of Board members of the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC), the lawmaker representing Esan West/Esan Central/ Igueben Federal Constituency of Edo State, Marcus Onobun, has called on the House of Representatives to expedite the passage of a bill seeking to repeal the act.
Onobun made the call on the floor of the House while leading a debate on the proposed legislation.
He emphasized the need for a clear administrative structure to enhance professionalism and accountability within the National Assembly’s service framework.
“This bill seeks to repeal the National Assembly Service Act (No. 63) 2014 and enact the National Assembly Service Act, 2025, to provide a more structured and transparent administrative framework,” Onobun stated.
He explained that the 2014 Act, passed on June 26, 2014, was aimed at promoting professionalism and improving career progression for National Assembly staff. However, he noted that the current legislation requires urgent amendments to further strengthen legislative efficiency and clarify appointment procedures.
“The bill aims to build capacity, maximize excellence, and enhance legislative efficiency by establishing clear procedures for appointing clerks, heads of directorates, and the secretary to the commission,” Onobun added.
Supporting the motion, Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, commended the initiative and reiterated the need for reforms to improve governance within the National Assembly.
The House of Representatives consideration of the bill comes as President Tinubu approved the appointment of Dr. Saviour Enyiekere as the Chairman of the NASC for a renewable five-year term.
According to a statement issued by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu also approved the appointment of 12 members to the commission, two from each geopolitical zone.
Those appointed include Mr. Suleiman Hunkuyi and Hon. Yusuf Tabuka (North West); Aminu Malle and Alhaji Lawan Mahmud (North East); Mark Tersoo and Salihu Balogun (North Central); Mr. Taiwo Oluga and Afeez Ipeza-Balogun (South West); Mr. Nnanna Kalu and Festus Odii (South East); and Patrick Giwa and Mrs. Mary Ekpenyong (South South).
“Like the chairperson, members of the commission shall hold office for a renewable term of five years,” President Tinubu stated in the release.
The National Assembly Service Bill 2025 is currently at its second reading stage, with lawmakers expressing optimism about its potential to reform the administrative structure of the legislative service and ensure greater accountability.
