Senate Announces Public Hearings For Historic Review Of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution.
The Nigerian Senate has unveiled plans for a comprehensive two-day public hearing to gather citizens’ views on proposed amendments to the 1999 Constitution, marking a significant step towards inclusive governance. Scheduled for 4–5 July 2025, the hearings will take place simultaneously across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, ensuring broad participation in shaping the nation’s future.
The Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, chaired by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, will host the hearings in Lagos (South West), Enugu (South East), Ikot Ekpene (South South), Jos (North Central), Maiduguri (North East), and Kano (North West). The sessions aim to address critical issues, including local government autonomy, state police, judicial and electoral reforms, state creation, and gender inclusion.
In a statement issued on Sunday, 22 June 2025, Senator Jibrin emphasised the importance of public engagement, urging Nigerians to participate actively. “These hearings are a pivotal opportunity for citizens to contribute to the constitutional amendment process,” he said. The committee has received over 37 memoranda from stakeholders, reflecting widespread interest in the review, which began in February 2024 and is expected to conclude by 2026.
Key proposals include allowing independent candidacy at all election levels, from local councils to the presidency, and establishing a National Local Government Electoral Commission to reduce state governors’ influence over local elections. Additionally, 31 state creation requests—seven from the North East, six from the North West, five each from the South West, South South, and North Central, and three from the South East—will be considered, alongside bills for state police and fiscal reforms to set deadlines for budget presentations.
The House of Representatives, led by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, is also conducting parallel hearings in July, with plans to engage the Nigerian Governors Forum, state assemblies, and media to ensure transparency. Kalu described the process as “the most comprehensive constitutional review in Nigeria’s history,” aiming to reflect the aspirations of all Nigerians.
Social media reactions on X highlight public enthusiasm, with users praising the focus on local government autonomy and state police as steps towards decentralised governance. One post noted, “This is a chance for Nigerians to shape a constitution that works for everyone.”
As the nation prepares for these historic hearings, the Senate and House committees have called for unity and active participation, stressing that a people-driven constitution is essential for Nigeria’s progress. Citizens are encouraged to attend the zonal hearings or submit memoranda to ensure their voices are heard in this transformative process.
