Niger State Assembly Increases Retirement Age for Academic Staff, Establishes Diaspora Agency
In a bid to improve the quality of education and foster economic development, the Niger State House of Assembly has passed two significant bills. The first bill increases the retirement age for academic staff working in state-owned institutions from 65 to 70 years, while professors will now retire at 75 years instead of 70. The second bill establishes the Niger State Diaspora Agency, aimed at strengthening strategic investments, promoting cultural exchanges, and fostering economic growth.
The bill to increase the retirement age was passed during the Assembly’s plenary session, following the adoption of the report of the Standing Committee on Education. Committee Chairman, Hon. Mohammed Sani Idris, noted that the recommendation aligned with nationwide standards and would help retain seasoned academic staff, ultimately improving the quality of education within the state.
The Assembly also approved the Niger State Diaspora Agency Bill, presented by Deputy Speaker Hon. Afiniki Eunice Dauda. The law aims to enhance the State’s engagement with the diaspora community, promoting cultural exchanges, trade, and developmental projects. According to Dauda, the agency will play a crucial role in fostering economic development by leveraging the expertise and resources of Nigerians living abroad.
The establishment of the Niger State Diaspora Agency is expected to have a significant impact on the state’s economy, as it will provide a platform for Nigerians in the diaspora to contribute to the state’s development. The agency will also facilitate the transfer of knowledge, skills, and technology, ultimately leading to job creation and poverty reduction.
The increase in retirement age for academic staff is also expected to have a positive impact on the education sector, as it will allow experienced lecturers to continue imparting their knowledge and expertise to students. This move is in line with the state government’s efforts to improve the quality of education and make it more accessible to all.
Overall, the passage of these two bills demonstrates the Niger State government’s commitment to improving the lives of its citizens and promoting economic development. By leveraging the expertise of its diaspora community and retaining experienced academic staff, the state is well on its way to achieving its development goals.
