Constitution Review: Deputy Speaker Commends Committee Members Commitments 

As the Constitution Review Committee continues its ongoing work towards amending the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu has commended members of the committee for their commitments.

He gave the commendation at the committees’ meeting in Abuja.

“Your presence here today underscores your staunch commitment to this noble task. I commend each of you for the diligence, dedication, and patriotism you have demonstrated thus far,” Mr. Kalu said.

He noted that constitution amendment was a complex process, requiring the input, consensus, and sacrifice of diverse stakeholders across the federation.

“This committee has made remarkable progress, but there is still much to be done. I implore you to continue to double your efforts, maintaining the momentum necessary for the success of this national endeavor,” he said.

The Deputy Speaker who doubles as the chairman of the Constitution Review Committee also disclosed some of the success stories of the committee.

“Allow me to highlight some of our recent engagements, which serve as milestones in our collective journey:

1. Engagement with the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF)

2. Attendance of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures – Southwest Zone.

“These engagements are a testament to our commitment to inclusivity, dialogue, and consensus-building as the bedrock of this constitution review process. As we proceed with this meeting,

“I will provide further details of the deliberations that we had in the aforementioned engagements,” he said.

Thematic Areas of the Constitutional Review

The Thematic areas that form the core of the review process are:

● Local Government Matters: To strengthen the autonomy and functionality of local government administrations, ensuring they serve as the grassroots foundation of governance

● Judiciary: To promote judicial independence, enhance access to justice, and streamline the administration of justice for all Nigerians.

● Electoral Matters: To ensure the integrity, transparency, and inclusiveness of our electoral processes.

● Security: To address the urgent need for a more robust and localized security framework to safeguard lives and properties.

● Devolution of Powers: To promote a more equitable distribution of responsibilities between the federal, state, and local governments.

● Gender Issues: To advance gender equity, ensuring fair representation and inclusion of women in all spheres of governance.

● Revenue and Fiscal Reforms: To enhance fiscal responsibility, equity in revenue allocation, and economic development across all tiers of government.

● Human Rights: To strengthen the protection and promotion of fundamental rights, reflecting the aspirations of all Nigerians.

” These areas are not just pillars of our constitutional review; they are the foundation for building a more equitable, just, and functional Nigeria,” the Deputy Speaker said.

He urged the members to remain guided by the shared commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy, deepen the federal structure, and foster unity and prosperity for all Nigerians.

“On behalf of the leadership of the Let us forge ahead with determination, knowing that history will judge us favorably for our role in shaping a better Nigeria,” he added.

The meeting considered venues for the forthcoming regional meetings of the committee.

 

Confidence Okwuchi