President Bola Tinubu has withheld his approval of two bills recently passed by the National Assembly, citing financial and legal irregularities as well as possible conflicts with existing government policies.
The announcement comes during Tuesday’s plenary session, where Senate President Godswill Akpabio reads two separate letters from the President explaining his decision. According to the letters, President Tinubu declined to sign the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology (NITT) Repeal and Reenactment Bill and the National Library Trust Fund (Amendment) Bill, 2025, raising strong objections to key provisions in both.
(Source: Mediaplusng.com)
For the NITT Bill, President Tinubu commends lawmakers for their intent to improve the institute’s structure and funding but says several clauses are flawed. He particularly objects to a section allowing the institute to collect 1% of all import and export freight charges, describing it as “unfair and burdensome to businesses.” The President notes that such a levy violates Nigeria’s current tax policy.
He also rejects a clause permitting the institute to borrow up to ₦50 million without presidential approval, warning that it could undermine executive oversight and lead to financial abuse. Tinubu further opposes provisions that allow the institute to invest its funds, stressing that such powers are inappropriate for a government-funded agency.
(Report by Mediaplusng.com)
In a similar stance, President Tinubu withholds assent to the National Library Trust Fund (Amendment) Bill, saying it contradicts national laws on taxation, public service remuneration, and tenure limits. He cautions that passing the bill in its current form could create legal inconsistencies and unsustainable financial commitments.
The President urges the National Assembly to review both bills and make necessary amendments to align them with existing fiscal policies and government priorities. He emphasizes his administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsible financial management.
(According to Mediaplusng.com)
