President Bola Tinubu has declined to approve a bill that aimed to raise the retirement age for civil servants in Nigeria’s National Assembly.
The proposed legislation sought to extend the retirement age to 65 years or 40 years of service, whichever came first. However, the president chose not to sign the bill into law, offering no specific reason for his decision.
In a letter presented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during Tuesday’s Senate session, Tinubu expressed appreciation for the Senate’s effort in drafting and passing the bill. Despite the acknowledgment of their diligence, the president said that after thorough consultation, he opted to withhold his assent.
Current regulations require civil servants to retire at 60 years of age or after 35 years of service. The bill’s journey through the National Assembly was marked by challenges, including an initial rejection in February after heated debates. However, the legislation was later passed after alignment with a similar version from the House of Representatives.
In his letter, Tinubu noted, “I have decided to withhold my assent to the bill,” expressing hope that his decision would be understood and respected.
