President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has pledged his administration’s full support for ongoing constitutional reforms, describing the exercise as vital to deepening Nigeria’s democracy, strengthening institutions, and protecting citizens’ rights.
Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, Tinubu spoke at the National Public Hearing on the Review of the 1999 Constitution in Abuja. He described the review as a “golden opportunity” to entrench good governance, inclusivity, and sustainable development.
“The Constitution is the supreme law of the land. It is not static, but a living document that must continually respond to the realities, aspirations, and challenges of our people,” Tinubu said, noting that the exercise aligns with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The President commended the House of Representatives Constitution Review Committee, chaired by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, for creating an inclusive platform that engages citizens, civil society, political parties, professional groups, and traditional institutions.
Speaker of the House, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, described the hearing as “a significant moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey,” promising that the National Assembly would expedite the process to prevent delays.
Among the key proposals under consideration are:
- Reserved seats for women in the National and State Assemblies.
- Guaranteed representation for persons with disabilities.
- Gender quotas in ministerial appointments.
- Advisory roles for traditional rulers in peacebuilding and security.
Deputy Speaker Kalu disclosed that 87 amendment bills were compiled from nationwide hearings and consultations. Some of the most far-reaching proposals include electoral reforms, the creation of an Electoral Offences Commission, timelines for resolving disputes, devolution of powers to allow state policing, and local government autonomy.
Kalu stressed that the reforms reflect citizens’ demands, not legislative imposition. “The ultimate authority for this process resides with you, the sovereign people of Nigeria,” he said.
Both Tinubu and National Assembly leaders assured that the review process would remain transparent and free from political interference. They pledged to publish the harmonised version of the proposals before voting begins in plenary.
If ratified by at least 24 state assemblies, Nigeria could witness its most sweeping constitutional reforms since 1999, reshaping governance, security, inclusivity, and democratic accountability.
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