The Niger State House of Assembly has approved a bill to increase the retirement age for academic staff working in state-owned institutions from age 65 to 70.

For professors, the house approved the increment of their retirement age to 75 years instead of age 70.

The bill was passed during Wednesday’s plenary session following the adoption of the report of the Standing Committee on Education presented by the chairman, Hon. Mohammed Sani Idris (Tafa constituency).

According to him, the recommendation aligned with nationwide standards.

He further emphasized that the bill would help retain seasoned academic staff while improving the quality of education within the state.

Similarly, the Assembly also approved the Niger State Diaspora Agency Bill.

Presenting the report of the House Committee on Women Affairs, Humanitarian and Disaster Management, Deputy Speaker, Hon. Afiniki Eunice Dauda, said that the law would enhance the State’s engagement with the diaspora community.

She noted that the agency would strengthen strategic investments, promote cultural exchanges, trade, and developmental projects with the aim of fostering economic development.