President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declined to approve the National Assembly Library Trust Fund amendment bill. In a letter sent to the House of Representatives and read aloud by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas during plenary, the President raised several concerns about the bill’s compatibility with Nigeria’s constitution and government policies.
Although he acknowledged the bill’s good intentions, Tinubu warned that parts could disrupt existing frameworks. He pointed out conflicts involving funding methods for National Assembly agencies, taxation policies, public service salary structure, and age or service limits. According to him, allowing these changes could set an “unsustainable precedent” that would not serve the public interest.
The bill was designed to improve the funding of the National Assembly Library and expand its functions. However, the President believes the current version clashes with established laws and must be revised before gaining executive approval.
Reacting to the development, Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs Chairman, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, said there was no conflict between the two arms of government. He described the President’s response as a normal part of legislative checks and balances, not a rejection or fallout.
House spokesperson Clement Jimbo and his deputy, Phillip Agbese, supported this view. They emphasised that the President had the constitutional right to withhold assent, just as lawmakers could override the decision if necessary. According to Jimbo, the President flagged sections that need legal adjustments, and lawmakers will work on those issues.
Agbese added that the two branches of government are collaborating to ensure sound governance. He noted that the library serves all Nigerians, not just lawmakers, and promised that the bill would be refined and resubmitted.
Both officials stressed that the National Assembly remains committed to supporting the President’s economic goals while upholding legislative independence.
