NASC Chairman Urges Akpabio to Inaugurate Pension Board, Back Key Legislative Reforms

The Chairman of the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC), Chief Saviour Enyiekere, has appealed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio to fast-track the inauguration of the National Assembly Service Pension Board to ease the hardship faced by retired staff.

Enyiekere made the call during a courtesy visit to the Senate President on Thursday, January 29, 2026, noting that delays in operationalising the pension scheme have left many retirees unable to access their entitlements. He said inaugurating the board would improve staff welfare and align the National Assembly with accepted parliamentary standards.

Beyond pension reforms, the NASC chairman also proposed measures to strengthen legislative administration, including the establishment of a Council of Former Presiding Officers. He said the body would serve as an advisory platform and help preserve institutional memory by drawing on the experience of past legislative leaders.

Addressing infrastructure concerns, Enyiekere urged support for the return of National Assembly Legislative Quarters to tackle accommodation and security challenges faced by lawmakers and staff. He noted that a modern residential complex would improve efficiency and safety within the legislature.

He also briefed the Senate leadership on the Commission’s activities since its inauguration in May 2025, including plans for a staff audit aimed at eliminating payroll irregularities.

In his response, Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended the Commission’s initiatives and assured that the 10th National Assembly would support reforms that enhance legislative efficiency and staff welfare. He disclosed that the Pension Board would be inaugurated once ongoing amendments to its enabling law are concluded.

Akpabio also encouraged the Commission to propose amendments to the National Assembly Service Act to strengthen its authority over personnel management, while urging it to address concerns arising from recent senior staff appointments and redeployments.