Reps unveil 86 constitution amendment bills, set dates for nationwide public hearings

The House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review has released a compendium containing 86 proposed amendments to the 1999 Constitution, signaling the start of a nationwide consultation process.

The compendium, unveiled on Wednesday in Abuja by Deputy Speaker and Committee Chairman, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, groups the proposed bills into 13 thematic areas.

These include Electoral Reforms, Judicial Reforms, Legislative Matters, Inclusive Governance, Security and Policing, Devolution of Powers, and Institutional Strengthening. Others are Traditional Institutions, Fiscal Reforms, Citizenship and Indigeneship, Fundamental Human Rights, Local Government Reform, and the Creation of States and Local Governments.

Kalu explained that the compendium provides detailed summaries, long titles, and explanatory notes for each bill.

He said the initiative is aimed at deepening public participation in the constitutional review process and ensuring that citizens understand the scope and intent of each proposal.

According to him, zonal public hearings will be held to give Nigerians an opportunity to engage with the proposed amendments, offer suggestions, and seek clarifications.

“The compendium will serve as a reference document during the hearings, allowing citizens to critically examine the bills and make constructive inputs,” Kalu stated.

“This will also allow legislators to gain valuable insight into the expectations and concerns of their constituents.”

The Deputy Speaker emphasized that feedback from the public would guide lawmakers when the bills are brought up for debate and voting.

He also noted that individuals and groups who submitted memoranda would be informed of how their concerns have been addressed.

The zonal hearings will take place in six centres across the northern geopolitical zones from July 11 to 13, 2025, and in six centres across the southern zones from July 18 to 20, 2025.

A National Public Hearing is scheduled for July 21, 2025.

Kalu called on all Nigerians to actively participate in the exercise.

“Download the compendium, review the proposed amendments, and take part in the public hearings.

“Your input is vital to shaping a constitution that truly reflects the aspirations of the people,” he said.