….. to Hold Valedictory Session, Marking End of 6th Assembly tomorrow
From Abel Leonard, Lafia
The Nasarawa State House of Assembly has faced criticism from workers after it stepped down a crucial bill for a Contributory Pension Scheme while passing the bill for the establishment of the Nasarawa State College of Education, Akwanga.
Daily Sun reports that the Contributory Pension Scheme bill, aimed at providing a comprehensive pension scheme for employees in the public service of Nasarawa State, was put on hold to allow for inputs and contributions from critical stakeholders.
The Speaker of the House explained that the bill required the involvement of organizations such as the NLC (Nigeria Labour Congress) and pensioners to voice their opinions during a public hearing. The bill has now been deferred to the 7th Assembly for further consideration.
Workers and other stakeholders expressed concern over the delay in passing the Contributory Pension Scheme bill, citing its significance in safeguarding the lives of public servants in the state. However, the Speaker assured them of the Assembly’s commitment to incorporating their inputs before finalizing the bill.
Meanwhile, the Nasarawa State College of Education, Akwanga bill was passed into law during the Assembly’s proceedings. The bill extends the retirement age of both academic and non-academic staff from 60 to 65 years.
The Speaker instructed the Clerk of the House to prepare a clean copy of the bill for Governor Sule’s assent, marking another milestone in the Assembly’s activities.
In addition, the House adopted various reports on four bills and scheduled their third readings for Wednesday, May 31st, 2023. These bills include the repeal and re-enactment of the Nasarawa State Bureau of Statistics Law, the amendment of the Nasarawa State Customary Courts Law, the repeal and re-enactment of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly Service Commission Law, and a bill concerning the supply and sanitation of water in Nasarawa State.
The Speaker emphasized the critical importance of these bills for the state’s development, expressing the Assembly’s dedication to passing them into law on the slated date.
Daily Sun also reports that the Nasarawa State House of Assembly is set to hold a valedictory session on Wednesday, May 31st, 2023, marking the end of the 6th Assembly’s tenure.