The Nigerian Senate’s plan to hold a two-day zonal public hearing on the 1999 Constitution is an important step towards involving citizens in shaping the laws that govern the country.
Development Diaries reports that the Nigerian Senate, through its Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, announced that a comprehensive 2-day zonal public hearing will be held across Nigeria’s geo-political zones.
It is understood that the public hearing, scheduled for between 04 and 05 July, 2025, is aimed at gathering Nigerians’ input on the proposed constitutional amendment.
Senator Jibrin Barau, who leads the Committee and also serves as the Deputy Senate President, has invited Nigerians from all walks of life to participate and share their views.
Why Citizens Need to Attend
Citizens should attend because the constitution affects every aspect of their daily lives, from how they vote, how justice is served, how local governments operate, to how power is shared between the federal and state governments.
Many Nigerians have long complained that the 1999 Constitution does not truly represent the will of the people. This public hearing is a chance to correct that by directly contributing to discussions on how the constitution can better serve everyone.
At the hearings, Nigerians should push for electoral reforms that will make elections free, fair, and credible, reducing the number of court cases and violence after every election.
Another important issue is security reforms that can help tackle the growing insecurity across the country. With kidnappings, banditry, and terrorism affecting many parts of Nigeria, people need to demand stronger and more localised security systems.
Citizens should also ask for inclusive governance, where more women, youth, and people living with disabilities have equal opportunities to participate in politics and decision-making.
Nigerians should also demand a more transparent and participatory process for future constitutional reviews. Many citizens feel sidelined until decisions are made. There must be a legal framework that ensures inclusive participation at every stage, from drafting to final adoption.
What Should Citizens Do?
Whether in Lagos, Enugu, Jos, Ikot Ekpene, or Maiduguri, physical presence sends a strong message. If you cannot attend, find out how to submit a memorandum or join virtually, if provisions are made.
Organise Around Key Issues
Civil society groups, professional associations, and community-based organisations should mobilise around specific constitutional demands and present them coherently.
Engage Lawmakers Beyond the Hearings
The review process will not end at the hearings. Continue engaging your senators and representatives to push through the reforms you care about.
Hold the Committee Accountable
Demand transparency throughout the review process. Citizens must know how their inputs were considered and what decisions were made.
Finally, attending the hearing is not just about sharing opinions, it is about taking responsibility for the country’s future. This is a chance for everyday Nigerians to ask tough questions, present written proposals, and make their voices count.
If people do not show up and speak up, decisions will continue to be made without them. The constitution review process is not complete without the people, and this hearing is a key moment to influence the direction of Nigeria’s democracy.
