The National Assembly on Wednesday held a public hearing in the South-East as part of its ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution, with lawmakers unveiling reform proposals to stakeholders in the region.
The hearing, held in Owerri, the Imo State capital, featured the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, who was represented by the House Leader, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere.
Abbas listed some of the reforms under consideration to include youth and women empowerment as well as the creation of constitutional roles for traditional rulers.
“From focused discussions on appropriation and state policing to deliberations on national security, state police, economic resilience, political inclusion, and equitable gender representation, we have remained unwavering in our commitment to aligning our legislative efforts with the dynamic aspirations of the people we serve,” he said.
The Speaker further disclosed that the House was exploring ways of strengthening the role of traditional rulers in governance through the constitution review process.
“The House is presently exploring ways of strengthening the role of traditional rulers in governance through the constitution review process that will define clear responsibilities and reinforce their authority in line with democratic principles.
“This initiative is part of our broader agenda to reach every demographic in the country and ensure that governance reflects our unique cultural diversity. It is expected that through the ongoing constitutional review process, some of these issues will be addressed,” he added.
He also stressed the readiness of the legislature to strengthen grassroots governance.
“We are working closely with state Houses of Assembly and local government councils to ensure the effective devolution of power and resources.
“Beyond this, the House shall also work with relevant organs of government to guarantee full compliance with the provisions of our Constitution that enshrine devolution of power to the local governments.
“Our goal is to create a governance framework that is both inclusive and responsive, where communities feel the presence of government in their daily lives. By building stronger local institutions, we are laying the foundation for improved service delivery, deeper civic participation, and a democracy that truly reflects the will and aspirations of the people,” he said.
The Speaker also noted that equally important to the House is “The future of our young people, who represent both the strength and the promise of our nation.”
He added that the National Assembly was determined to expand opportunities for the young Nigerians to enable them to play their part in nation-building.
“Through programmes such as legislative mentorship, leadership training, and skills development, we are equipping the next generation with the knowledge and tools to take up the mantle of leadership.
“We also seek to broaden the avenues for civic engagement so that young Nigerians not only witness governance but contribute directly to its outcomes. In doing so, we are investing in a future where the vibrancy, creativity, and energy of our youth become central to the renewal and resilience of our democratic institutions,” he added.
On the Special Reserved Seats for Women Bill, he said, “This initiative is not merely symbolic; it is a deliberate step to deepen inclusiveness, strengthen democratic participation, and harness the proven leadership capacity of women in governance.
“At present, only four women serve in the Senate out of 109 seats, and 15 women in the House of Representatives out of 360 lawmakers. This represents less than five per cent of the total membership, a figure that is far from satisfactory when compared with other legislatures across Africa, which have achieved over 50 per cent female representation.
“I wish to use this medium to appeal to our host Governor (Senator Hope Uzodimma), all state Assembly lawmakers, our revered royal fathers, respected religious leaders, and other critical stakeholders to join in pushing this noble cause to fruition.
“Countries such as Rwanda, Kenya, and South Africa have already set a shining example by creating room for women’s voices to be heard at the highest levels of decision-making, and Nigeria must not be left behind in this progressive march toward equality and balanced representation.”
The Speaker noted that the engagement was the last in the three-phase series, which started in Abuja on June 11, 2025, for the 36 states’ representatives, then on June 27 in Zaria for the 19 states of the Northern region.
“It is our resolve to engage directly with the citizenry, listening attentively to their concerns, suggestions, and aspirations,” he said.
