By Lateef Taiwo
Emeka Nwala, Chairman, National Assembly Legislative Aides Forum (NASSLAF), 10th National Assembly, says he will represent the interest and welfare of members of the forum at all times.
He made the commitment at the inauguration of the newly elected Executive Committee members of the Forum held in Abuja on Friday.
Nwala said that in conformity with his campaign manifesto, he has resolved to provide purposeful leadership designed to transform the Forum.
“I know as a fact that members of NASSLAF are disillusioned and disappointed with the forum in view of its seeming inability to be at the forefront, pushing for their welfare.
“We however promise to do all we can to promote your welfare. We will therefore cherish your support, prayers and constructive criticism.
“Prior to now, NASSLAF members’ wellbeing had not received the best of attention, leaving members disillusioned, disappointed, embittered and hopeless with every sense of denial of their rights.
“To this end, my administration is determined with the collective support of all stakeholders to revive the hopes of our members.
“This is by restoring the hitherto lost glories in the areas of prompt payments of all entitlements like 28 Days, DTAs, trainings in and outside Abuja with their allowances and accompanying materials.
“N35,000 allowance, prompt payment of salaries including all outstanding arrears of salaries and severance as well as other benefits.”
The chairman further said that he would “court a robust but healthy relationship” by engaging with the managements of the national assembly, National Assembly Service Commission (NASC) to realise promises made to the forum.
“To this end, may I appeal for cooperation and partnership from all stakeholders to create a much deserved synergy that will promote the well-being of aides.
“This is because the success of these laid-down plans is contingent principally on the cooperation, partnership and synergy of all members of NASSLAF.”
Nwala, however, urged all aides to endeavour to deliver on their primary assignments of offering legislative support to principals in order to deepen Nigeria’s democracy.
In his remarks, Clerk of the National Assembly (CNA), Sani Tambawal urged the newly inaugurated exco to sustain the existing peace in the national assembly.
He was represented by Mr Birma Maina, Secretary, Human Resources and Staff Development Directorate, National Assembly.
Tambawal while saying that as the executive begin piloting the affairs of the forum, there may be problems here and there.
“Of course, as the journey starts, there may be problems here and there. Don’t wait until the problem gets worse, come and meet the management.
“You have leaders that should come and meet us and tell us what might be the problem so that we brainstorm.”
The CNA also promised to guarantee the welfare and well-being of the members of the forum.
Also speaking, National President, Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), Mohammed Usman urged the new exco to embrace all irrespective of differences.
“I implore you, all those who who won the election to embrace those who they contested with. This is because each one has the wisdom and profile that could be used to move NASSLAF forward.
He urged them not to betray the trust reposed on them by carrying everybody along.
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