Tinubu Vetoes National Assembly Library Fund Bill Over Policy Conflicts

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declined to assent to the National Assembly Library Trust Fund (Establishment) Amendment Bill, 2025, citing major inconsistencies with federal policies and existing laws.

The President’s decision was made known through a formal letter sent to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, which was read aloud during plenary on Tuesday. While acknowledging the bill’s positive intentions, Tinubu emphasized that several provisions clashed with Nigeria’s governance framework and regulatory norms.

According to Tinubu, the bill’s clauses—especially those relating to funding mechanisms for National Assembly agencies, taxation, public service pay structure, and age or service limits—would create legal and operational conflicts if enacted.

“Despite the commendable objectives of the legislation, certain provisions within it contradict the established laws and policies of the federal government,” the letter stated.

He further warned that such provisions, if passed into law, could set a dangerous and unsustainable precedent, ultimately harming public interest and derailing financial discipline across federal institutions.

Highlighting the broader implications, the President urged lawmakers to revisit and correct the contentious aspects of the bill.

“I hope that the House of Representatives will take necessary steps to fix the identified issues with the legislation,” Tinubu advised in his letter.

The Library Trust Fund Bill was initially crafted to enhance the structure, funding, and services of the National Assembly’s legislative library system, aimed at improving research and institutional memory within the legislative arm.

However, President Tinubu’s firm rejection signals a need for greater alignment between legislative initiatives and overarching national policies.