Effective Legislature Crucial to Nigeria’s Democratic Growth – NASC

By Precious Oluwole

The National Assembly Service Commission (NASC) has stressed that building an effective legislature remains central to strengthening democracy in Nigeria, while calling for stronger collaboration with State Houses of Assembly Service Commissions.
Dr. Afeez Ipesa Balogun, NASC Commissioner representing the South-West, made this known during an interactive session with members and staff of the Ondo State House of Assembly Service Commission on Wednesday in Akure.

He commended the state government and the Assembly for their hospitality, noting that the visit was aimed at supporting the Commission to perform its duties effectively.
“Our mandate is to ensure adequate manpower for effective legislation because strong institutions are critical to democratic growth,” Balogun said.

He explained that the creation of NASC in 2000, and its amendment in 2014, was to provide a specialized workforce separate from the civil service — one that enhances professionalism, dedication, and loyalty within the legislature.
Balogun, who also outlined NASC’s structure of a Chairman and twelve members representing the six geopolitical zones, identified inadequate funding and lack of autonomy as challenges.

However, he assured that engagements were ongoing with state governments to strengthen legislative bureaucracy nationwide.
Welcoming the delegation, Chairman of the Ondo State Assembly Service Commission, Dare Emiola, described the visit as historic.

He emphasized the Commission’s role in recruitment, training, welfare, and discipline of staff, adding that these functions are vital for effective lawmaking, representation, and oversight.
“Like other states, we face funding and training gaps, infrastructural challenges, and the urgent need for autonomy. But with NASC’s support, we are optimistic that new solutions will emerge,” Emiola said.

He appreciated Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Speaker, and lawmakers for their support and pledged Ondo’s readiness to deepen collaboration.
Also speaking, the Clerk of the Assembly, Mr. Benjamin Jaiyeola, appealed for the statutory inclusion of Assembly Service Commissions in Section 197 of the Constitution. Similarly, Commission Secretary, Amos Olowogorioye, listed achievements including the appointment of principal officers, extension of tenure for commission leaders, and timely staff promotions.

On her part, the Chairman of the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN) Comrade Helen Oluwafemi, urged intervention on the implementation of the Consolidated Legislative Salary Structure (CONLESS) in Ondo State, noting that Ekiti had already adopted it.

The visit, according to both NASC and Ondo leaders, will not only boost staff morale but also standardize best practices across state legislatures, thereby strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions.