Efforts to amend the 1999 Constitution resumed on Friday with the opening of a two-day North West zonal public hearing of the Senate Committee on Constitution Review in Kano.
The hearing, which is taking place at Bristol Palace Hotel, brought together participants from Kano, Jigawa, Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara states.
Those in attendance include civil society groups, professional associations, traditional rulers, and other interest groups who are expected to present their views on proposed constitutional amendments.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Senate President and Chairman of the Committee, Senator Barau I Jibrin, said the Senate was not backing any specific amendment but would listen to the public before making decisions.
“Since our nation’s return to constitutional democracy in 1999, following a prolonged period of military dictatorship, the calls for amendments and reviews to the Constitution have remained persistent and vigorous.
“In response to growing demands, the 10th Senate constituted the Constitution Review Committee to address citizens’ calls for amendments to the Constitution. The Committee’s mandate is to foster a broad national consensus, rather than echo the voices of a powerful minority that dominate media platforms. This context guided the Committee as it sought memoranda and proposals from Nigerians on potential constitutional changes aimed at enhancing good governance and promoting the welfare of all individuals, rooted in the principles of freedom, equality and justice.
“Members of the Committee hold no preconceived opinions to impose upon you but are committed to being guided by legislative practices grounded in the highest ethical standards, integrity, open-mindedness, and patriotism. I implore all stakeholders to provide their input in accordance with these standards while maintaining the utmost decorum and responsibility.”
He listed some of the areas under consideration to include electoral reforms, the judiciary, local government administration, the role of traditional institutions, human rights, gender inclusion, devolution of powers, federal structure, and security.
“We have carefully reviewed and translated your memoranda into bills, which we now present to you for further input and discussion,” Barau said.
He added that for the amendments to succeed, the Senate would have to work closely with the House of Representatives and State Assemblies, as well as secure cooperation from the executive and judiciary.
“It is crucial to recognise that our committee’s work represents a collaborative effort with our esteemed colleagues in both the House of Representatives and the State Houses of Assembly. To achieve the vital constitutional reforms, we must unite and work in harmony. I am encouraged by the numerous national and state legislators present today, all of whom share a common vision. Our collaboration will not end with this public hearing; together, we will enhance our contributions to produce outcomes that resonate with a national consensus, always prioritising the interests of our citizens.
“Additionally, it is imperative to engage the understanding of our executive and judicial branches of government, as they are fundamental in executing the will of the people and enforcing the rule of law. A law that lacks implementation is, by definition, ineffective, and we must avoid this pitfall as we pursue our objectives,” he said.
The hearing is expected to end on Saturday, July 27, 2025.
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