Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has reiterated the need for a Nigerian Constitution that truly serves all segments of society, as the House Committee on Constitution Review commenced its retreat in Enugu.
Kalu, who chairs the committee, emphasized that Nigerians are yearning for a constitutional framework that empowers local governments to deliver quality services, streamlines electoral justice, strengthens fiscal federalism, ensures women’s full participation in governance, and enhances accountability across all tiers of government.
He disclosed that the committee has assembled a distinguished panel of constitutional lawyers, scholars, and policy analysts to guide its deliberations, provide comparative insights, and navigate complex legal and political questions that will arise during the review process.
“The work we do here in Enugu over the next few days will define the trajectory of Nigeria’s democracy for generations to come,” Kalu said.
“Will we be remembered as the Assembly that empowered local governments, shattered the glass ceiling for women, and restored public confidence in our electoral system? These are moral and political imperatives that demand immediate and decisive action.”
Kalu urged committee members to prioritize unity of purpose, legislative discipline, and national interest, stressing that every decision must be guided by what is best for Nigeria’s over 200 million citizens rather than partisan or regional considerations.
“The Constitution we are reviewing is the social contract that binds us together as a people,” he noted. “Let the work we do here reflect our collective commitment to build a just, equitable, and inclusive nation.”
He further charged members to produce an actionable roadmap for constitutional reform that will empower local governments, guarantee women’s representation, strengthen electoral integrity, and deepen Nigeria’s federal democracy.
In his goodwill message, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, represented by his deputy, Ifeanyi Ossai, called for comprehensive judicial and police reforms to ensure speedy justice delivery and address pressing socio-political, security, and economic challenges in the country.
Governor Mbah noted that the ongoing review offers an opportunity to create a Constitution that reflects the aspirations of the Nigerian people, adding that inclusive governance remains central to national stability and development.
