Nigeria has launched a pivotal national public hearing for the review of its 1999 Constitution, an initiative President Bola Tinubu hailed as a “golden opportunity” to strengthen institutions, deepen federalism, safeguard fundamental rights, and promote justice, equity, and accountability across all facets of national life.

Represented by Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator George Akume, President Tinubu emphasized that the Constitution, as the nation’s supreme law, is a dynamic instrument that must evolve with the realities, aspirations, and challenges of Nigerians. He noted that the review aligns with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at fostering good governance and inclusive development, assuring that the Federal Government would give due attention to the outcomes.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, assured stakeholders that the constitutional review would conclude within the current legislative session. He acknowledged that Nigerians are weary of prolonged reforms that lose momentum and erode public trust. Tajudeen promised expeditious voting on proposals and prompt transmission to State Houses of Assembly for concurrence.

He highlighted transformative amendments under consideration, including reserved seats for women in the National and State Assemblies and provisions for representation of persons with disabilities at all government levels. An amendment requiring a minimum threshold of women in ministerial appointments is also being proposed to ensure gender balance. Tajudeen further emphasized the importance of recognizing traditional institutions as stabilizers, mediators, and custodians of culture.

Hon. Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker and Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, revealed that the committee is deliberating on 87 proposed amendment bills, crafted to address the needs of Nigerians. Key reforms include electoral amendments such as provisions for independent candidacy, the establishment of an Electoral Offenses Commission, and fixed timelines for resolving pre-election disputes.

Proposals on devolution of powers are also being considered, including moving policing from the Exclusive to the Concurrent Legislative List to allow state and community police forces. Bills aimed at ensuring the financial and administrative independence of local governments are on the table, alongside measures to secure gender balance in legislative and executive appointments.

Various stakeholders presented their positions during the public hearing. The Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures, represented by Hon. Abubakar Suleiman of Bauchi State, emphasized that the review must respond to citizens’ concerns, particularly on security, justice, and equity. The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), through Miriyam Jatau, supported electoral reforms, devolution of powers, local government autonomy, and strengthening judicial independence. Opposition voices, including Okey Osuoha of the PDP, called for clear provisions for electronic voting and enhanced fiscal autonomy for local governments.

The National Council of Traditional Rulers, represented by Etsu Nupe Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, urged constitutional recognition for monarchs, highlighting their historical roles in policy implementation, community mediation, and cultural preservation. Women with disabilities, represented by Lois Auta-Udonkanta, CEO of the Network of Women with Disabilities, called for explicit recognition of disability issues and greater inclusion in politics and other sectors.

The public hearing marks a critical step in Nigeria’s constitutional reform process, offering a platform for inclusive debate and signaling the Federal Government’s commitment to reforms that reflect the diverse aspirations of its citizens.