The has passed a bill aimed at overhauling and professionalising the National Assembly’s internal security system.
The proposed legislation seeks to restructure the office of the Sergeant-at-Arms by making it a career-based position within the parliamentary service. Under the bill, the head of the National Assembly Security Directorate will now be appointed by the National Assembly Service Commission from among serving legislative staff, rather than from retired military or external security personnel.
For years, critics have raised concerns about the reliance on outsiders—especially retired military officers—to manage parliamentary security. They argue that such practices weaken institutional independence, hinder staff career growth, and prevent the development of a specialised security framework suited to the legislature.
Calls for reform intensified following notable security breaches, including the 2018 invasion of the Senate chamber and the theft of the mace, which exposed vulnerabilities within the National Assembly complex.
The bill sets strict eligibility criteria for the role of Sergeant-at-Arms. Candidates must have spent at least 15 years in service within the National Assembly, attained a minimum rank of Assistant Director, and maintained a clean disciplinary record.
It also upgrades the office into a full-fledged directorate, granting it the same institutional status as other directorates. The head of the unit will serve a renewable four-year term, with a maximum of two terms.
In terms of welfare, personnel of the directorate will enjoy conditions of service similar to other National Assembly staff. Where gaps exist, they will fall under provisions applicable to the Nigeria Police.
A notable provision in the bill allows the Sergeant-at-Arms to bear arms within the National Assembly complex, subject to presidential approval. However, the use of firearms is strictly limited to self-defence or situations involving imminent threats to life or serious injury, as well as preventing serious crimes or the escape of dangerous suspects.
Sponsored by lawmaker Akintunde Rotimi, the bill is designed to build a professional, internally driven security system and create a clear path for career advancement within the legislative security structure.
Following its passage in the House, the bill will proceed to the Senate for concurrence before being forwarded to President for assent. If signed into law, it is expected to significantly strengthen the autonomy and operational capacity of Nigeria’s National Assembly.
