Governors Seek More Role In Constitutional Review Process

State governors have called for greater involvement in Nigeria’s ongoing constitutional review, emphasising the need to ensure subnational perspectives are well represented.

The resolution came during the 11th meeting of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) on Wednesday, where governors engaged with the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria (COSLON) to discuss governance reforms and legislative collaboration.

The 10th National Assembly is in the process of amending the Nigerian Constitution, a process that has become somewhat statutory by the federal legislature for the better part of this democratic dispensation which began in 1999.

However, the governors’ forum underscored the importance of reflecting state-level priorities in the review process, particularly in areas affecting fiscal federalism, resource control, and governance efficiency.

They highlighted the role of subnational governments in implementing national policies and stressed the need for constitutional amendments that strengthen decentralisation and economic autonomy.

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Chairman of the NGF and Governor of Kwara State, reiterated the forum’s commitment to working closely with state legislatures to ensure the constitutional review process reflects the realities of governance at the grassroots level.

He said “The Forum engaged with the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria (COSLON) to discuss key issues, including strengthening synergy between COSLON and the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), and ensuring subnational perspectives are well-represented in the ongoing constitutional review process.

“COLSON also informed the Forum of their partnership with Development Finance Institution (DFI’s) to digitize the State Houses of Assembly, aimed at enhancing legislative efficiency and transparency.

“Governors reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating with state legislatures to advance governance reforms and ensure effective policy implementation at the subnational level.

The governors also welcomed a shift in the United States (US) government’s engagement with Nigeria.

The U.S. ambassador to Nigeria, Richard M. Mills, who met with the governors, outlined a new approach to bilateral relations, moving away from a donor-recipient model towards mutual collaboration.

He highlighted four key priorities for the US-Nigeria engagement: improving trade and investment, strengthening governance transparency, supporting subnational development, and establishing sustainable, Nigeria-led health programs.

The governors expressed support for this renewed approach, emphasizing the role of state governments in driving economic and social development.

In a related discussion, minister of Women Affairs briefed the Forum on the nationwide scale-up of the Nigeria For Women Project (NFWP).

Initially launched in six states, the program aims to enhance women’s economic empowerment through Women Affinity Groups (WAGs), livelihood grants, and capacity-building initiatives.

The expansion aligns with Nigeria’s goal of lifting 100 million citizens out of poverty.