Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has urged the newly inaugurated National Assembly Service Commission (NASC) to ensure that staff welfare, promotions and recruitment are guided by the principle of federal character.

Akpabio made the call during a courtesy visit by the Chairman and members of the Sixth NASC to his office on Thursday, shortly after their inauguration. The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media, Jackson Udom.

Congratulating the commissioners, the Senate President expressed confidence in their ability to deliver on their mandate, noting that their appointment was a deliberate decision anchored on experience, competence and maturity.

According to him, the leadership of the National Assembly was satisfied with the calibre of individuals selected to steer the affairs of the Commission.

“With your pedigrees and wealth of experience, I am confident you will live up to expectations and deliver on the responsibilities entrusted to you,” Akpabio said.

He stressed that the diverse professional backgrounds of the commissioners should translate into efficient management of the Commission, particularly in areas affecting staff welfare, career progression and recruitment, in a manner that promotes fairness and national balance.

Responding, the Chairman of the Commission, Dr Saviour Enyiekere, thanked Akpabio and the leadership of the National Assembly for the confidence reposed in the Commission.

He acknowledged the enormity of the task ahead but assured that the Commission was fully prepared to address the challenges, while building on the achievements of previous administrations.

Enyiekere also revealed plans to establish a Council of former Presiding Officers of the National Assembly, as well as proposals for the reintroduction and construction of new National Assembly Legislative Quarters.