President Bola Tinubu has restated his administration’s support for constitutional reforms tailored to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Senator George Akume, stated this while declaring open, a public hearing on the Review of the 1999 Constitution in Abuja.
The president described the process 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,” he said.
The president, who commended the House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review, chaired by the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, said the review was in accordance with his Renewed Hope Agenda.
He, however, commended the committee for creating an inclusive platform that engages citizens, civil society, political parties, professional groups and traditional institutions.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas restated his commitment to participatory governance and inclusiveness.
Abbas commended the Kalu-led House Ad-hoc Committee on Constitution Review for their diligence and excellent work.
“This reflects the House of Representatives steadfast commitment to participatory governance and inclusive nation-building, affirming that every Nigerian has a meaningful voice in shaping the document that defines our republic.
“I wish to commend the committee for its diligence and inclusivity. They have demonstrated through their work that constitutional amendment must be a listening exercise before it becomes a legislative one,” he said.
He added that the publication of the Summarised Compendium of Bills, online portals for feedback, open invitations for memoranda and the dedication with which members attended zonal sessions all demonstrate a people-driven process.
Abbas, who particularly congratulated the deputy speaker and members of the committee for discharging their responsibilities with integrity and patriotism, saluted all who travelled from every corner of the country to participate.
He said Nigerians are weary of constitutional reforms that drag on for years, losing momentum and eroding public trust.
Speaking, the deputy speaker emphasised the need for devolution of powers, with a landmark proposal to allow state and community policing.
Kalu said local government autonomy is key to ensuring financial and administrative independence for grassroots governance.
Kalu stressed that the proposals were derived from citizens demands and not legislative imposition.
