Efforts to ensure merit and transparency in appointing the Clerk to the National Assembly are underway, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, announced on Monday. Proposed amendments to the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC) Act aim to streamline the process and eliminate controversies surrounding this critical role.
Abbas, speaking in Abuja during the presentation of an exit report by the 5th Commission of the NASC, emphasized the need for reforms. “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 urgent reform,” he said.
The proposed amendments, co-sponsored by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, will establish clear qualifications and procedures for appointing key officers. According to Abbas, this will promote a merit-based and transparent succession process while aligning career progression guidelines for employees.
Strengthening the National Assembly’s Bureaucracy
The Clerk to the National Assembly oversees the workforce and administration of the legislative complex, a role crucial to its operations. Abbas called for legislative career professionals to lead the bureaucracy, stating, “Workers who have built their careers in the legislative line should head the bureaucracy of the federal parliament.”
The Speaker noted the amendments would ensure stability and efficiency, adding, “The absence of clarity in the succession plan undermines the service’s stability and efficiency. The National Assembly cannot afford such disruptions.”
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Advancing Institutional Development
Reflecting on the commission’s achievements over the past five years, Abbas acknowledged its contributions to enhancing the National Assembly’s institutional capacity. “The National Assembly has transformed into a formidable institution, contributing to national development through effective lawmaking, oversight, and representation,” he said.
He also highlighted the challenges faced by the NASC compared to other commissions, such as the Federal Civil Service Commission and Judicial Service Commission, but praised its progress. “Despite limited resources, the NASC has made impressive strides in enhancing the institutional capacity of the National Assembly,” Abbas added.
The Speaker underscored the importance of recruiting capable personnel, enhancing workforce capacity, and maintaining discipline within the Service. “A well-trained and disciplined bureaucracy forms the foundation of an effective legislature,” he stated.
Commitment to Excellence
Abbas reaffirmed the House’s commitment to working collaboratively with the NASC, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement. “The journey to establish a strong, independent, and productive legislature requires continuous improvement, innovation, and a commitment to excellence,” he said.
He congratulated the outgoing Chairman of the NASC, Ahmed Amshi, and his team for their efforts over the past five years. The Speaker expressed optimism that the incoming Clerk, Kamoru Ogunlana, would build on the foundation laid by his predecessor, Sani Tambuwal, whose tenure ends in five days.
Amshi, while presenting a 13-page report, highlighted the commission’s successes and challenges, noting the importance of fostering professionalism and integrity within the NASC.
In his concluding remarks, Abbas stressed, “The NASC must be primed to attract and retain the best talents while fostering a culture of professionalism and integrity.”
With these proposed reforms, the National Assembly aims to strengthen its institutional framework, ensuring efficiency, stability, and transparency in its operations.