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Constitution Review: Speaker Abbas Says Implementing Comprehensive Electoral Reforms Will Be Considered

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2 years ago

February 26, 2024

Gloria Ikibah

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By Gloria Ikibah

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas has said that in the review ofthe 1999 Constitution (As Amended), critical areas to be considered include implementing comprehensive electoral reforms to address the gaps identified in the aftermath of the 2023 general elections, strengthening the enforceability of legislative instruments; and institutional strengthening for greater accountability, among others.

Speaker Abbas who stated this at the inauguration of the House Committee on Constitution Review and Citizen Engagement organised by the House Committee on the Review of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (As Amended) on Monday in Abuja, noted that these areas are crucial for reinforcing the democracy and ensuring that the governance structure meets the needs and aspirations of all Nigerians.

He explained that several Bills have already been introduced in both the Senate and House, on some of these important issues.

He said: “We expect the Sixth Alteration under this Tenth National Assembly to be the most comprehensive yet. As such, the task before the Constitution Review Committee is profound. The House Agenda is ambitious in its scope and encompasses wide-ranging issues pivotal to our national growth.

“Among these are: devolution of powers, including state policing; enhancement of fiscal federalism through local government autonomy; further decongesting the Exclusive Legislative List; recognising and assigning constitutional roles for traditional institutions; and promoting inclusivity, particularly greater gender equity and women representation into appointive and elective positions.

“Regarding the latter, I implore this Committee to align its work with the Legislative Agenda. I urge you to revisit the issue of additional or reserved seats for women across legislative bodies, twinning in joint tickets and conferring citizenship on foreigners married to Nigerian women.

He highlighted that “since the inception of the Fourth Republic, the Constitution has been subjected to five alterations with landmark changes that have strengthened the democratic institutions, federalism and governance generally.

“Under the 9th Assembly, the Fifth Alteration made some of the most far-reaching amendments. It clarified and reinforced financial autonomy for State Houses of Assembly and Judiciary, decongested the Executive List, defined guidelines for the First Session and Inauguration of Members-Elect of the National and State Houses of Assembly, and deleted reference to the provisions of the Criminal Code, Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Act, Criminal Procedure Code or Evidence Act, among others. All these made the Fifth Alteration the most extensive since 1999.

“We expect the Sixth Alteration under this Tenth National Assembly to be the most comprehensive yet. As such, the task before the Constitution Review Committee is profound. The House Agenda is ambitious in its scope and encompasses wide-ranging issues pivotal to our national growth.

“However, in making recommendations and proposals that potentially have far-reaching impacts (such as state police), I strongly recommend that we adopt a scientific approach grounded in empirical evidence rather than ideology, personal beliefs, or political expediency. I also challenge us to go beyond traditional and generic prescriptions and explore gradualism in law making with the understanding that social change can be achieved in small, discrete increments rather than in abrupt strokes or grand solutions. This gradual process will allow us to pilot innovative solutions, engage in meaningful experimentation, and gather concrete data and facts to inform our decisions.

“Also, this approach ensures that reforms are not only effective but also adapted to the unique needs and challenges of our great nation. Through this careful and considered process, we can achieve sustainable and impactful changes for the good of our country and all Nigerians”, he noted.

Speaker Abbas revealed that the methodology to be employed by the Committee will emphasise inclusivity, transparency, and collaboration even as he assured that the House will work closely with the Executive arm (both at the Federal and sub-national levels).

“This partnership stems from recognising their pivotal role in governance, ensuring that our review process is comprehensive and considers the practical aspects of implementation. Equally, the process will involve State Houses of Assembly to foster consensus and expedite adoption by States. But more importantly, the process will be deeply rooted in engaging with the Nigerian people at all levels, including traditional and religious institutions, pressure groups and trade unions, ethno-religious organisations, the diaspora community and much more.

“As we embark on the essential task of Constitutional review, the House has adopted a strategy of timely commencement. This proactive approach is designed to ensure thorough engagement and deliberation. By starting early, we aim to facilitate a comprehensive review process, allowing ample time for robust public engagement, detailed analysis, and thoughtful consideration of proposals for amendments. This approach also ensures that the review is concluded in good time and avoids some of the setbacks experienced in the past occasioned by late commencement”, Abass added.

The Speaker urged all members and Nigerians to approach the process with an open mind and spirit of patriotism, adding that the constitutional amendment process is both costly and laden with contentious issues, but the benefits far outweigh the challenges.

“It is an opportunity to address the pressing issues that have emerged in our polity, to close gaps in our legal system, and to strengthen the foundations of our democracy. As such, I urge all members of the Committee on Constitution Review, and indeed all Nigerians, to approach this exercise with an open mind, a spirit of patriotism, and a commitment to the greater good. Our goal should not be to win arguments but to build consensus, to not just amend laws but to forge a more unified, just, and prosperous Nigeria”.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, Deputy Speaker of the House and Chairman of the CRC, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, called on Nigerians to advocate tirelessly for change, holding elected representatives accountable and demand accountability at every turn.

He assured that the committee will work diligently to deliver on its assignment within the next 24 months, and will wholeheartedly seek the cooperation and support of all Nigerians.

According to Kalu, the Constitution Review Committee of the 10th National Assembly stands ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

He added that leveraging the power of technology, social media, and inclusive

engagement, will ensure that every voice is heard, every perspective is considered, and every citizen is empowered to participate in shaping the nation’s future

He said: “Today marks an important moment in the history of our great nation as we convene for the Inauguration and Citizen’s Engagement of the House of

Representatives Committee on the Review of the Constitution of the

Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).

“Our constitution, the foundation of our democracy, stands as a testament to

our collective aspirations for a just, equitable, and prosperous society. Yet,

as we confront the realities of the 21st century, it is incumbent upon us to

recognize the imperative for constitutional reform, to ensure that our laws reflect our people’s evolving needs and aspirations.

“As James Madison, the “Father of the American Constitution,” once

eloquently stated, “The Constitution of a Republic … ought to contain within

itself provisions for its own improvement as time and circumstance may

require.” Heeding this wisdom, we must embark on this reform journey with

open minds and hearts, acknowledging the dynamic nature of our society

and the need for our governing document to adapt accordingly.

“As we gather here today, it is important to highlight the areas that are

currently at the forefront based on the bill proposals we have received so

far – some of them include the establishment of state police; state access to mines; increased participation of women in politics; clear specification of the taxes/levies to be collected by each tier of government and the provision for the office of the Mayor of the Federal Capital Territory Abuja.

He disclosed that several bill proposals that were passed during the Fifth Constitution alterations but did not make the President’s assent have been brought back.

These bills include “Powers to the National Assembly and State Assemblies to Summon the President and State governors, and Requirements of the Government to Direct Policies Towards Ensuring the Rights to Food and Food Security.

“This highlights the dynamic nature of the constitution review process and

its salientness to the democratic strengthening of the country.

“It is important to reiterate that we are willing to accommodate more proposals to enhance our Constitution and strengthen our democracy. In addition, we await executive-sponsored bill proposals that reflect issues on the renewed hope agenda of Mr President.

“It is also important to note the amendments to the constitution carried out by previous assemblies, which include but are not limited to the financial independence of State Houses of Assembly and State Judiciary; redesignating “Prisons” as “Correctional Services” and then transferring them from the exclusive legislative list to the concurrent legislative list to enable the state’s participation.

“Others include transferring “railways” from the exclusive legislative list to the concurrent legislative list; enabling states to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity in areas covered by the national grid; and requiring the President and Governors to submit the names of persons nominated as Ministers or Commissioners within sixty days of taking the oath of office for confirmation by the Senate or State House of Assembly

“We particularly saw this come into action when President Bola Ahmed

Tinubu submitted his ministerial list two days before the deadline on

Thursday, the 27th of July in 2023.

As we move forward, states should commence domestication of these

amendments to generate the required results and propel Nigeria towards a

brighter future.

“Thus, the call to action is clear, and the pathway forward is illuminated by

the principles of dialogue, advocacy, participation, unity, and inclusivity.

“Let us heed the voices of our fellow citizens, from all walks of life, and engage in open, inclusive, and transparent dialogue on constitutional reform. Let us bridge divides, build consensus, and forge a common vision for the future

of Nigeria.

“Participation is not merely a right; it is a sacred duty bestowed upon us as

citizens of this great nation. I call upon every one of you to actively participate in the constitutional reform process, to lend your voices, ideas, and expertise to craft a constitution that reflects the values and aspirations of all Nigerians”.

Naijablitznews.com reports that the 45-member committee is comprising one member from each of the 36 states of the Federation and the FCT.

The committee is chaired by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, while the House Leader, Hon. (Prof) Julius Ihonvbere, is the Committee’s Deputy Chairman. To ensure greater inclusion, the Committee will also have six (6) additional women, one from each of the six geo-political zones. Furthermore, the House Zonal Caucus Leaders have been co-opted in an advisory capacity to advise the Committee on issues relating to their respective zones. Lastly, the Committee’s secretariat will also include a representative of people living with disabilities to ensure that their concerns are properly accommodated.

The mandate of the Committee is to receive and consider proposals for alteration of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), create a forum for stakeholders and the public to make inputs into the review process and collaborate with the Senate and the State Houses of Assembly as required by law.

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Senate okays Oke, Are, Dalhatu for appointment as ambassadors

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27 seconds ago

December 17, 2025

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The Senate on Tuesday approved the nomination of three ambassadorial nominees—Ayodele Oke, Colonel Kayode Are (rtd), and Amin Dalhatu for appointment as envoys.

The resolution of the Senate followed its consideration of the report of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs presented by its chairman, Senator Abubakar Sani Bello, during plenary.

Oke, a former Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and ex-Nigerian Ambassador to the Commonwealth Secretariat in London; Are, a former Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS); and Dalhatu, Nigeria’s immediate past Ambassador to South Korea, were unanimously endorsed by lawmakers when the Senate President Godswill Akpabio put their nomination to a voice vote.

In his comment, Akpabio urged the ambassadors-designate to bring to bear their wealth of experience in their new roles.

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Senate Passes MTEF/FSP, Says 2026 Budget To Be Presented This Week

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4 minutes ago

December 17, 2025

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The Senate has passed the 2026–2028 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and Fiscal Strategy Paper, indicating President Bola Tinubu is expected to present the 2026 Appropriation bill of N54.4 trillion this week.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio, announced the passage on Tuesday following the consideration and debate on the report presented by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, Sani Musa.

Akpabio described the MTEF as a prerequisite for the presentation of the national budget, underpinning that the document does not represent a final position of the legislature.

“The Medium-Term Expenditure Framework is only a prerequisite before the presentation of the budget. What we are discussing here is not a finality. If circumstances change, it will be brought back to us to rejig, react or act,” the former governor of Akwa Ibom said.

Senator Akpabio explained that the passage of the MTEF would enable the National Assembly to receive the 2026 budget proposal between now and Thursday.

According to him, the framework is not cast in stone, as reviews can still be made when the budget is formally laid before the Senate.

He expressed hope that the projections contained in the framework would be realistic enough to support the effective implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

During a brief debate, Senator Mohammed Monguno noted that the MTEF clearly outlined key fiscal parameters, describing them as realistic.

Monguno cited the projected daily crude oil production benchmark of 1.84 million barrels per day as achievable, and the reduction of the oil price benchmark projection to 60 dollars from 64 dollars per barrel as circumspect, given current realities.

Following the deliberations, the Senate adopted the recommendations contained in the MTEF/FSP report through a voice vote.

On Thursday, the upper chamber received the 2026–2028 Medium Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper from President Tinubu, signalling the launch of the 2026 budget cycle.

In a letter addressed to the lawmakers, Tinubu said the submission complies with statutory requirements and sets out the fiscal parameters that will guide the preparation of the 2026 Appropriation Bill.

President Tinubu explained that the MTEF/FSP outlines the macroeconomic assumptions, revenue projections, and spending priorities that will shape Nigeria’s fiscal direction over the next three years.

The Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin (APC, Kano North), who read Tinubu’s letter during plenary, urged the lawmakers to expedite consideration of the document.

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PSG Dominate As FIFA Announces 2025 ‘The Best’ 11 Award For Men, Women [FULL LIST]

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5 minutes ago

December 17, 2025

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FIFA has unveiled the 2025 The Best Men’s and Women’s 11, celebrating the standout performers in world football over the past season.

The announcement was made on Tuesday at the awards ceremony held in Doha, Qatar, with Paris Saint-Germain dominating the men’s selection.

Six players from PSG’s Champions League-winning squad were named in the Men’s 11 after helping the French side lift their maiden UEFA Champions League title and reach the final of the FIFA Club World Cup.

Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, now with Manchester City, was picked alongside Achraf Hakimi, Willian Pacho, Nuno Mendes, Vitinha and Ousmane Dembélé.

Club World Cup adidas Golden Ball winner Cole Palmer also earned a place in the team, while 18-year-old Spanish sensation Lamine Yamal was included following a breakthrough season.

The Best FIFA Men’s 11 (2025)

Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma
Defenders: Achraf Hakimi, Willian Pacho, Virgil van Dijk, Nuno Mendes
Midfielders: Cole Palmer, Vitinha, Pedri, Jude Bellingham
Forwards: Ousmane Dembélé, Lamine Yamal

FIFA said the men’s team was picked based on performances between 11 August 2024 and 2 August 2025.

Votes were cast by a panel of football experts and registered fans on FIFA.com, with both groups carrying equal weight.

In the women’s category, players from Spain and England dominated the 2025 The Best Women’s 11, with seven Spanish stars and four English players making the final selection.

The recognition followed an intense year at both club and international level. Spain and England faced each other in the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 final, while Arsenal defeated Barcelona in the UEFA Women’s Champions League final.

The Best FIFA Women’s 11 (2025)

Goalkeeper: Hannah Hampton
Defenders: Lucy Bronze, Leah Williamson, Irene Paredes, Ona Batlle
Midfielders: Aitana Bonmatí, Patricia Guijarro, Claudia Pina
Forwards: Alexia Putellas, Alessia Russo, Mariona Caldentey

The women’s team was determined using the same voting process and assessment period as the men’s selection, with nominees evaluated on their impact at club and international level.