Some critical stakeholders, including the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria, [PASAN, National Assembly Chapter], are intensifying pressure on the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC) to adhere to the principles of seniority, competence, and federal character in its upcoming appointments in the National Assembly bureaucracy.
PASAN in a two-page letter to the Executive Chairman of NASC dated December 22, 2025, called for adherence to federal character principle in the appointment of Secretaries in the National Assembly.
The letter received in the office of the NASC chairman on December 22, 2025, was signed by PASAN Chairman, Sabiyyi Sunday.
The broader spectra of stakeholders are concerned about the commission’s alleged plan to appoint the current Secretary of Procurement to the Finance and Account Directorate, citing that this move would be a serious disservice to the directorate and the National Assembly.
The stakeholders argue that the appointment would violate the principle of federal character, as the Secretary of Procurement and the person being considered for appointment as a secretary too, are both from Sokoto state. This very action, they contend, will negate the federal character principles.
With seven states in the North West zone, including Kaduna, Kano, Jigawa, Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, and Zamfara, the stakeholders believe that other states in the zone are due for representation in the National Assembly’s management structure.
Furthermore, the stakeholders question the suitability of the Secretary of Procurement for the Finance and Account Directorate, citing the complexity and dynamics of the role.
They argue that there are senior officers within the directorate who are well-trained, versatile, and highly experienced to fill the vacancy.
The stakeholders are urging the NASC to be guided by the principles of seniority, competence, and federal character in its operations, emphasising that the commission’s integrity and reputation are at stake.
They also cautioned the presiding officers to stay away from the commission’s activities and allow them to exercise their key functions and responsibilities without interference .
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