NASS Clerk Ogunlana Flags Off Directors’ Leadership Training …Cautions Staff Against Indiscipline, Illegal Picketing

NASS Clerk Ogunlana Flags Off Directors’ Leadership Training

…Cautions Staff Against Indiscipline, Illegal Picketing

The Clerk to the National Assembly (CNA), Mr. Kamaru Ogunlana, on Monday inaugurated a three-day leadership and capacity-building programme for Directors of the National Assembly in Kano, calling for renewed discipline, enhanced corporate governance practices and sustained investment in staff welfare.

Represented by the Deputy Clerk to the National Assembly, Engr. Bashir Aminu Yero, Ogunlana said the training — themed “Leadership Masterclass for Effective Corporate Governance” — is a critical step in strengthening professionalism within one of the world’s largest legislative support institutions.

He noted that the National Assembly currently has a workforce of over 4,000 personnel, including more than 200 directors who hold key administrative and technical positions. While commending what he described as “the most experienced and most academically accomplished workforce in the institution’s history,” the CNA reaffirmed management’s commitment to continuous development. He disclosed that more than 3,000 staff and legislative aides have participated in various training programmes this year, including international courses.

Ogunlana further enumerated significant welfare milestones achieved since he assumed office in February. These include the clearance of outstanding salary arrears, prompt payment of staff and aides, steady release of departmental imprest, regular payment of first 28-day allowances, procurement of utility vehicles and extensive upgrades at the National Assembly Clinic.

He added that the management is pursuing institutional ownership of the Assembly’s Lagos and Abuja complexes and implementing reforms aimed at ensuring fair and adequate pension and gratuity arrangements for retirees.

Addressing concerns raised by directors — such as delayed promotions, unsuitable reporting structures and inadequate office accommodations — the CNA appealed for patience, noting that some issues are tied to budgetary provisions. He commended the establishment of the National Assembly Forum of Directors, describing it as a positive step toward inclusive administration and participatory governance.

On staff conduct, Ogunlana issued a strong warning against what he termed “misinformed and illegal attempts” by some workers to picket the National Assembly. He revealed that intelligence reports showed that the organisers, including three Grade Level 09 officers and about 75 contributors — among them a Director — opened a bank account to mobilize funds for the planned protest. The account has been frozen and the individuals involved are currently under investigation, with possible prosecution pending.

He dismissed claims accusing management of meddling in union affairs or short-paying salaries as “completely unfounded,” reminding directors that as senior officers, they are responsible for upholding discipline, enforcing service rules and ensuring institutional decorum as mandated by the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act.

“Your leadership must reflect the standards we expect across the institution,” he cautioned, stressing that any disruption to legislative operations poses a threat to national stability.

The CNA thanked the programme facilitators and participants and formally declared the training open, urging directors to actively participate and maximize the benefits of the engagement.