The House of Reps Committee on Constitution Review has set a 24-month timeline for the completion of a new Nigerian constitution, according to the Committee’s Chairman, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.
Mr. Kalu made the announcement during the formal inauguration of the committee.
He explained that the 24-month timeframe aims to provide sufficient time for the President to review proposed amendments before signing them into law. This strategy seeks to avoid the potential constraints of an election year with its busy schedule.
“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,” he said.
Kalu said the House of Reps has so far recieved bill proposals for 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 noted that several bill proposals that were passed, but did not make the president’s assent during the fifth constitution alterations have been brought back to the current amendment.
