The Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution has pledged to give full consideration to the wide range of issues raised by Nigerians during its recent public hearings, affirming its commitment to ensuring meaningful reforms through the constitutional amendment process.
Senator Jubrin Barau, Deputy Senate President and Chairman of the Committee, gave the assurance at the conclusion of the South-West Zonal Public Hearing held in Ikeja, Lagos. Represented by the Vice Chairman of the committee and Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Barau said the Senate had listened to Nigerians “loud and clear” and would carefully deliberate on all submissions.
He noted that the committee will compile its report and submit a final proposal to the Senate for debate, after which the draft constitutional amendments will be transmitted to the 36 State Houses of Assembly for ratification, in line with legislative procedures.
The committee expects to complete the ratification process before the end of 2025.
Among the dominant issues raised during the public hearings were demands for state creation, establishment of state police, devolution of powers, electoral and judicial reforms, resource control, and special legislative seats for women.
Barau assured that none of these issues would be ignored, stating that the review process was not a formality but a serious national exercise aimed at enhancing governance.
“This public hearing is not a jamboree,” he said. “We have received submissions from youth, women, traditional rulers, civil society groups, and professional bodies. All of these will be carefully examined to redefine governance and move the country forward.”
He also pointed to past amendments as evidence that the Senate was committed to meaningful change, citing electoral reforms that emerged from earlier constitutional reviews.
Barau reiterated the Senate’s intention to uphold popular participation, noting that constitutional change must reflect the consensus and aspirations of Nigerians.
“The whole essence is to ensure that the constitution is not changed without the popular consensus of Nigerians. We are looking to address the concerns of all stakeholders for a better Nigeria,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that various organisations, including students, women’s groups, and professional associations, made oral and written presentations during the Lagos session.
The committee said the input will shape its final recommendations, which will focus on areas such as federalism, human rights, electoral fairness, judicial independence, and social justice.
