Constitution review: Uba Sani backs state police, fiscal federalism, gender inclusion

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has called for far-reaching amendments to Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, advocating the establishment of state police, implementation of fiscal federalism, and greater gender inclusion.

Speaking through his deputy, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, at the North-West zonal public hearing on constitutional review held in Kaduna on Saturday, July 12, 2025, Governor Sani described the review process as a “moment of national reckoning,” urging participants to prioritise the country’s collective future.

“Our Constitution must move from being a tool for the powerful to a charter that empowers the people,” he said.

“This hearing is not just about legal technicalities; it’s about shaping our identity, values, and vision for future generations.”

The governor outlined six critical areas for urgent constitutional reform, with state policing topping the list.

He recalled his efforts during his time in the 9th National Assembly, where he sponsored multiple bills pushing for the creation of state police forces.

Despite initial progress, he noted, the bills failed to gain final approval due to political disagreements.

Sani argued that decentralised policing is both necessary and inevitable.

“Security cannot be truly national if it isn’t local,” he said.

He also pushed for fiscal federalism, criticising the over-centralisation of Nigeria’s current system.

“States must have the authority to legislate on local issues and control resources within their territories.

“Fiscal federalism is not optional—it is a constitutional necessity,” he said.

Governor Sani further called for the constitutional recognition of traditional institutions, stressing their role in peacebuilding and community development.

“Our traditional rulers are not ceremonial figures—they are peacekeepers, community leaders, and custodians of indigenous governance,” he stated.

On gender inclusion, he advocated for constitutional provisions to ensure increased participation of women in politics and governance.

“A democracy that marginalises half its population cannot be truly democratic,” he said.

Urging lawmakers to act in the national interest, Governor Sani encouraged delegates to “legislate with conscience,” putting aside partisan and regional considerations.

The public hearing was part of a nationwide consultation by the National Assembly’s Constitution Review Committee to gather public input on proposed amendments to the 1999 Constitution.

Deputy Governors of Kano and Jigawa States, the Speaker of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, and the Attorney General of Katsina State were also present, presenting memoranda on behalf of their respective states.