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By Victor Osula, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has withheld assent to the Nigeria Institute of Transport Technology (Establishment) Bill, 2025, and the National Library Trust Fund (Amendment) Bill, 2025, citing fiscal inconsistencies and conflicts with existing government policies.
In two separate letters read during Tuesday’s plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Tinubu said while the bills were well intentioned, some provisions could undermine accountability and prudent financial management.
On the transportation technology bill, the president criticized the proposed 1% levy on imports and exports of goods, describing it as an “unregulated revenue stream” outside the national budget framework.
He also expressed concern over a clause that allows the institution to borrow up to ₦50 million without presidential approval, as well as another that authorizes it to invest allocated government funds in securities – describing both provisions as “fiscally dangerous”.
Likewise, Tinubu opposed aspects of the Library Trust Fund Amendment Bill relating to taxation, funding mechanisms, staff remuneration and length of service. It said many of the provisions conflict with existing federal laws and could set “untenable precedents” if implemented.
“I cannot grant presidential assent to the bill in its current form. I urge the Senate to revisit and address the issues identified,” the President wrote regarding the library trust fund bill.
In response, Senate President Akpabio directed the relevant committees to review and amend the two bills in line with the President’s remarks. While the Transportation Technology Bill was referred to the Full Committee, the Library Trust Fund Bill was sent to the Committees on Special Duties and Establishment and Public Service Matters.
Akpabio commended Tinubu’s attention to detail, saying the move reflects the President’s commitment to ensuring fiscal discipline and consistency in legislative acts.
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