By Standard Focus
As the National Assembly prepares for yet another round of constitution review, Nigerians are watching with a mixture of hope, skepticism, and fatigue. This is not the first attempt at reshaping the 1999 Constitution, and if history is a guide, citizens fear it may be yet another expensive ritual with minimal real impact.
But the moment the country finds itself in today demands more than cosmetic changes. Nigeria is battling insecurity, economic hardship, political tensions, and a governance structure that no longer reflects its realities. Against this backdrop, the approaching constitution review is not just a legislative exercise—it is an opportunity to correct foundational defects that continue to hold the nation hostage.
Nigerians expect sincerity. They expect courage. They expect a break from the recycling of old ideas that have repeatedly failed the country.
A Constitution Nigeria Did Not Write
The 1999 Constitution has long been criticized for its military origins. It begins with the words “We the people,” though Nigerians never had the chance to debate, write, or vote on it. While past amendments have tweaked a few provisions, the fundamental flaws remain intact.
This time, the lawmakers must resist the urge to merely scratch the surface. Nigeria’s democracy deserves a solid foundation, not a patched-up framework struggling under the weight of present-day challenges.
Top Expectations From Citizens
1. True Federalism, Not Tokenism
For decades, Nigerians have demanded a federation where federating units have real autonomy. The over-centralization of power in Abuja has turned state governments into beggars and weakened development at the grassroots.
State policing, fiscal federalism, and a clearer division of powers are not luxuries—they are necessities for national stability.
2. Security Architecture That Reflects Reality
Every corner of the country is grappling with insecurity, yet security architecture remains rigid and outdated. Nigerians expect lawmakers to finally dismantle the barriers preventing community-based security frameworks and intelligence-driven policing.
A constitution that cannot protect lives is a constitution that must evolve.
3. Electoral Reforms That Protect the People’s Will
Elections remain the soul of democracy. Nigerians expect constitutional reforms that strengthen INEC’s independence, enforce internal party democracy, protect electronic transmission of results, and end the culture of stolen mandates.
Legislators must ensure that every vote truly counts.
4. Gender and Youth Inclusion
Nigeria’s exclusion of women and young people from governance is not just an injustice—it is a developmental handicap. As the pressures for reserved seats for women and expanded representation grow, the constitution review offers the perfect platform for long-overdue reforms.
A modern nation cannot run on outdated norms.
5. Stronger Local Government Autonomy
Local governments, the closest to the people, have become the weakest link in our democracy. Nigerians expect lawmakers to free the third tier of government from state interference, ensuring financial and administrative independence.
The constitution must guarantee that development reaches rural communities where it is most needed.
Lawmakers Must Listen—Truly Listen
In previous exercises, public hearings were often seen as formalities. This time must be different. Nigerians want lawmakers to engage communities deeply, not merely tour geopolitical zones with prepared templates.
From farmers in Benue to traders in Onitsha, students in Kano, and artisans in Lagos, citizens want to be heard—and they deserve to be heard.
Avoiding Political Gamesmanship
Constitution review should not be reduced to party politics, regional rivalry, or power calculations ahead of the 2027 general election. Legislators must resist the temptation to turn a national priority into a weapon of political convenience.
Reform must be driven by national interest, not political ambition.
A Chance to Restore Trust
The National Assembly stands at a defining moment. Nigerians are increasingly disillusioned with governance, feeling that leaders prioritize themselves over the nation. By championing bold and people-centered reforms, lawmakers can restore faith in democracy and show that the legislature is not just a symbol of power, but a vehicle of progress.
Conclusion: A Constitution That Works for Everyone
Nigeria’s constitution can no longer remain a document of compromises made decades ago under a different reality. The upcoming review is a rare chance to craft a charter that reflects the aspirations of a new generation of Nigerians.
Lawmakers must seize this moment. The country cannot afford another missed opportunity.
Nigerians expect transformation—not tinkering. And they will be watching.
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