The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Chairman House Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), Mr. Benjamin Kalu, says that the joint retreat of the Senate and House Committees on constitutional review represents a defining chapter in the collective journey to deliver a Constitution that truly serves the people, deepens democracy, and strengthens the foundations of Nigeria.
Mr. Kalu was speaking at the second joint retreat of the Senate and House Committees on the review of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), held in Abuja.
He said that Nigeria stands on the verge of a historic constitutional breakthrough as the National Assembly moves to decide action on the 1999 Constitution.
He declared that all amendments require approval from at least two-thirds of the 36 State Houses of Assembly under Section 9 of the Constitution.
He stressed that the political future of over 200 million Nigerians depends on the coming decisions, noting that the reforms will reshape governance, federalism, and the management of power, resources, and security.
“The success or failure of this constitutional review will ultimately be determined not here in Abuja, but in the 36 State Assemblies across the Federation.
“You are the gatekeepers of constitutional reform, and history will judge us all by the actions we take in the coming weeks.
“Colleagues, let me be clear. This is the final retreat before the historic voting on the constitution alteration bills. After today, we move from deliberation to decision. We move from consultation to legislative action. We move from debate to delivery. History is watching us. The entire nation, over 200 million Nigerians anticipate direction from this Assembly.”
He added that Nigerians yearn for reforms that devolve power and bring governance closer to the grassroots, localise internal security through innovative approaches, and ensure fiscal federalism and equitable resource distribution.
“Permit me also to inform this distinguished gathering that, in keeping with our commitment to intergovernmental partnership, all Governors of the federation will be formally briefed on Wednesday, 26th November 2025. Distinguished colleagues, the Constitution we seek to refine is the soul of our Republic, the expression of our common destiny, the framework upon which the hopes and dreams of every Nigerian rest,” Mr. Kalu said.
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Similarly, the Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to meaningful reforms.
He explained that the retreat was meant to adopt prior resolutions, review subcommittee reports, and advance legislative work, including on state and local government creation.
He described the State Houses of Assembly as “critical and strategic partners” in ensuring smooth implementation.
He said that there is the need to interface with the Speakers of the State Houses of Assembly to afford them the opportunity to make observations and make inputs before final report presentation to plenary.
He urged the members to remain committed to the review.
The Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures, Mr. Adebo Ogundoyin pledged continued support from state legislatures, expressing confidence that lawmakers can deliver reforms to strengthen democracy and governance.
The retreat brought together federal and state lawmakers and other stakeholders for a final engagement before the National Assembly votes on the amendment bills.