The Nigerian Senate has announced the start of a major nationwide consultation on the review of the 1999 Constitution, with public hearings scheduled to hold across all six geo-political zones on July 4 and 5.
The process, led by the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, will feature simultaneous hearings in Lagos, Enugu, Ikot Ekpene, Jos, Maiduguri, and Kano. The goal is to gather citizens’ views on key issues affecting governance and development in Nigeria.
“This is a critical moment for our democracy,” said Senator Barau. “We urge all Nigerians to participate and make their voices count.”
According to a statement by Ismail Mudashir, Special Adviser to Senator Barau, over 50 proposed amendments will be discussed. These include:
– Full autonomy for local governments
– Creation of state police and security councils
– New procedures for submitting national and state budgets
– Stronger rules for public finance transparency
– More legislative seats for women
– Formal recognition of traditional rulers’ councils
One of the standout proposals is the push for local government autonomy, which includes giving local councils constitutional status and establishing independent electoral commissions for local elections. This could reduce state government control over grassroots politics.
Security is also a major focus, with proposed laws to allow states to set up their own police forces in response to growing insecurity. In addition, the Senate committee has received 31 separate requests for new states, including seven from the North East.
There are also plans to make diaspora voting legal, allow independent candidates to run in elections, and carry out over 20 reforms in the judiciary, aimed at speeding up the justice system and strengthening election tribunals.
The hearings represent the most inclusive constitutional review effort in recent years, as lawmakers seek to build a more functional and representative political system.
Senator Barau said the goal is to reflect the will of the people: “This is not just a legal process — it’s a chance for every Nigerian to help shape the future of our country.”
