President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to advancing constitutional reforms designed to fortify Nigeria’s democratic institutions and enhance governance.
Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, at the Public Hearing on the Review of the 1999 Constitution in Abuja, Tinubu described the exercise as a “golden opportunity” to embed good governance, inclusivity, and sustainable national 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,” the President noted.
He commended the House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review, chaired by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, for creating an open platform that allows citizens, civil society, political parties, professionals, and traditional leaders to actively contribute to the process. Tinubu emphasized that the review aligns with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Speaker of the House, Rep. Abbas Tajudeen, also reiterated the parliament’s commitment to participatory governance.
He described the review process as “a listening exercise before it becomes a legislative one,” citing innovations such as a Compendium of Bills, online feedback portals, and open invitations for memoranda as proof of a people-driven approach.
While praising Nigerians for traveling across the country to engage in the hearings, Tajudeen cautioned against unnecessary delays, insisting that “reform delayed is reform denied.” He stressed that clarity and closure are essential, given the diverse nature of Nigeria’s federation.
Tajudeen strongly advocated for gender inclusivity, lamenting that women currently occupy less than five percent of seats in the National Assembly.
He endorsed the proposal for reserved seats for women at both federal and state levels, as well as a minimum quota for women in ministerial appointments.
“This is not tokenism, but a constitutional mechanism to accelerate gender inclusion until structural barriers are dismantled,” he explained.
He also supported enhanced representation for persons with disabilities and underscored the stabilizing role of traditional institutions in governance.
Deputy Speaker Kalu, in his remarks, highlighted the need for devolution of powers, particularly through state and community policing, alongside granting full autonomy to local governments.
He stressed that the proposals came directly from citizens’ demands and not from lawmakers’ personal agendas.
“The ultimate authority for this process resides with you, the sovereign people of Nigeria,” Kalu declared.
