Assembly Commission Wants New Legislative Quarters For Senators, Reps

The executive chairman of the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC), Chief Saviour Enyiekere, has urged the federal government to construct a new Legislative Quarters in Abuja to address the housing, security, and coordination challenges currently faced by federal lawmakers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Dr. Enyiekere said the lack of central accommodation has hindered the effective performance of their legislative duties.

“Most lawmakers are currently grappling with insecurity, traffic congestion, and disconnection due to scattered residential arrangements—some located at the far outskirts of the FCT,” he noted.

Enyiekere recalled that the Apo Legislative Quarters, constructed during the General Abdulsalami Abubakar transition regime, served the critical purpose of providing safe, coordinated, and accessible accommodation for the first set of lawmakers in the 4th Republic.

However, during the monetization policy of the Obasanjo administration, the quarters were sold to the then-occupant lawmakers, leaving future legislators without dedicated official residences.

“That model worked. It allowed for security, ease of movement, and better legislative coordination. Today’s lawmakers deserve similar support for effective representation,” he said.

The call aligns with a growing chorus of housing policy experts advocating a revolving housing scheme in which government constructs homes, sells them to the public, and reinvests the proceeds into further housing projects. Proponents argue this model could help reduce Nigeria’s significant housing deficit.

As part of broader institutional reforms, Dr. Enyiekere also proposed the creation of a National Council of Former Presiding Officers of the National Assembly.

He said the Council would serve as a think tank and advisory body, preserving institutional memory and offering strategic guidance to both chambers of the National Assembly.

“These are individuals with invaluable legislative experience. Their input could serve as a compass for critical decisions and reforms,” he explained.

Dr. Enyiekere used the occasion to brief the speaker on the Commission’s activities since the inauguration of the 6th NASC on May 5, 2025.

He assured that under his leadership, the Commission would uphold the principles of merit, fairness, and national representation in all matters of recruitment, promotion, and discipline.

“We are committed to fostering a more resourceful, disciplined, and high-performing workforce in the National Assembly,” he said.

In response, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas commended the Commission for its proactive approach and acknowledged the need to improve the operational environment for lawmakers and staff alike.

The visit marks the first formal engagement between the leadership of the 6th NASC and the Speaker, signaling renewed cooperation aimed at legislative efficiency and staff development.