National
State Police, Women Rights, LG Autonomy Top As Constitution Amendment Kicks Off
The Senate Ad Hoc Committee on Constitution Review commenced a two-day retreat in Kano yesterday, with State Police, Women Rights and Local Government Autonomy topping discussions.
The lawmakers said that the National Assembly plans to present a draft bill by December 2025.
During the event, organized in collaboration with the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC), participants underscored the importance of focusing proposed amendments on Local Government Autonomy, State Police, and the specific roles of traditional rulers to address security challenges.
The forum reached a consensus that National Assembly committees from both chambers should engage with state governors, state assemblies, the judiciary, civil society organizations, and other key stakeholders to prevent potential rejections of bills at the state level.
In his opening remarks, Senator Jibrin Barau, Deputy President of the Senate and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Constitution Review, assured attendees that the ongoing constitutional review would reflect the desires and aspirations of the Nigerian populace.
He stated, “It is our duty to collaborate with our colleagues and stakeholders to produce a comprehensive report and recommendations for the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to deliberate and approve. As we embark on this vital journey, let us hold onto the core values that elevate nations: freedom, equality, and justice. These ideals should guide our efforts as we contemplate amendments to our Constitution with care and thoughtfulness.
Our decisions today will impact future generations, and we must ensure they serve the best interests of all Nigerians. To achieve meaningful reform, we must collaborate with our counterparts in the House of Representatives and engage with critical stakeholders, including the executive branch, state governors, state assemblies, the judiciary, and civil society organizations, to reach a consensus on contentious issues. Our success relies on our ability to work together, sharing insights and expertise to create a report for the Senate’s legislative actions. This retreat offers a unique opportunity for constructive dialogue and collective problem-solving,” Barau emphasized.
Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and chair of the House’s constitution review panel, noted that the retreat allowed the Senate to reflect on the process and challenges of constitutional amendments. He mentioned that other stakeholders would have the chance to provide input to guide the committee in shaping its direction and approach.
Represented by House Leader Julius Ihonvbere, Kalu highlighted that the collaboration between both chambers would enable the federal parliament to complete the constitutional amendment process by the proposed December 2025 deadline, avoiding interruptions from political campaigns leading up to the 2027 elections.
He proposed that both chambers engage with political leaders, traditional rulers, and faith-based organizations, and conduct joint meetings with state governors and panel consultants to harmonize documentation. Kalu further suggested that the Senate and House panels hold joint zonal public hearings to expedite the review process.
Adebo Edward Ogundoyin, Chairman of the Conference of State Houses of Assembly Speakers, expressed satisfaction that the review process began earlier than in previous assemblies. He noted that the last assembly’s late start affected the timely transmission of views to state assemblies.
Ogundoyin, also the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, said, “This early start will allow us ample time to review the transmitted views before they reach the state assemblies for approval. We reiterate our call for the prompt transmission of National Assembly resolutions on proposed amendments for effective implementation at the sub-national level. The challenges posed by the electoral activities during the 2023 general elections nearly hindered the last constitutional alteration. We are determined to avoid such issues, and an early start is essential for a smooth process.”
Ahmad Lawan, President of the 9th Senate, expressed hope that the 10th National Assembly would set realistic constitutional review targets that align with the demands of Nigerians. He recalled that the last assembly passed 62 issues, with 44 harmonized versions sent to the states, of which 35 were approved by the then-President.
Lawan urged his colleagues to focus on issues concerning women and the constitutional roles of traditional rulers, noting that several women-related bills failed to pass. He remarked, “The time is right for women’s forums to be given opportunities to contribute effectively. Our traditional leaders also have vital roles, and we should consider granting them formal roles to enhance their contributions.”
He also advocated for the National Assembly to legitimize the Supreme Court’s judgment on local government autonomy, emphasizing that states should manage their resources independently and that local governments need revitalization, as many currently operate ineffectively or not at all.
Niger’s military government has officially made Hausa the country’s new national language, moving away from its colonial past where French played a central role.
The change was announced in a new charter released on March 31, published in a special edition of the government’s official journal.
According to the document, “The national language is Hausa,” and “the working languages are English and French.”
Hausa is already the most commonly spoken language across Niger, especially in the Zinder, Maradi, and Tahoua regions.
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Most of the country’s about 26 million people understand and speak Hausa. In comparison, only around three million people, just 13 per cent, can speak French.
The new charter also officially lists nine other local languages, including Zarma-Songhay, Fula, Kanuri, Gourmanche, and Arabic, as “the spoken languages of Niger.”
This language switch follows a national meeting held in February.
During that event, the military government received more support and General Abdourahamane Tiani, the junta leader, was approved to stay in power for five more years.
Since taking over in a coup in July 2023, which removed the country’s civilian president, Mohamed Bazoum, the junta has been cutting off ties with France.
These actions include removing French troops from the country, ending diplomatic relations, and changing the names of roads and buildings that used to carry French names.
Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso, which also have military governments and used to be French colonies, are taking similar steps.
They’ve also withdrawn from the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie, a group similar to the Commonwealth that supports French-speaking nations.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, and the Chairman of the Miners Association of Nigeria, Engr Dele Ayanleke, are expected to headline a national workshop aimed at addressing the growing challenges of illegal mining and mineral smuggling.
Scheduled to take place from 29 to 30 April 2025 at the Nicon Luxury Hotel in Abuja, the event is being organised by Allied Bond Consulting.
It is expected to bring together policymakers, security chiefs, and industry stakeholders to discuss strategies for securing mining sites and fostering sustainable development within mining communities.
In a statement jointly signed by the Chairman of the Organising Committee, Ahmed Yahya, and the Workshop Coordinator, Willie Tawo, the organisers said the two-day event would focus on “articulating pragmatic strategies and proactive measures to combat the menace of illegal mining and smuggling.”
The workshop also aims to promote international best practices in mining operations, enhance security at mining sites, and explore how the sector can attract further investment and serve as a catalyst for Nigeria’s economic diversification.
Participants will deliberate on creating a stable, secure environment for mining, promoting peaceful coexistence in host communities, and using the solid minerals sector as a platform for building the country’s industrial base.
National
Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire Congratulates Otunba Olufemi Pedro on LASU Honorary Doctorate
The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SSAP-SDGs), Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, has congratulated former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency, Otunba Olufemi Pedro, on the conferment of an Honorary Doctorate Degree by the Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo.
The honorary degree is being awarded as part of the institution’s 28th Convocation Ceremony, scheduled to hold on Thursday, 10th April 2025, at the Buba Marwa Auditorium, Main Campus, Lagos.
In a statement released on Wednesday by her Special Assistant on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communications, Desmond Utomwen, Princess Orelope-Adefulire described the honour as “well-deserved and long overdue,” noting that Otunba Pedro’s life and career reflect a legacy of excellence, innovation, and integrity in both the public and private sectors.
“Otunba Pedro’s remarkable journey—spanning the financial sector and public service—is a shining example of visionary leadership and selfless dedication to national development,” the statement read.
“As former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, he played a pivotal role in laying the foundations for the fiscal reforms that have contributed immensely to the state’s economic growth and transformation.”
Princess Orelope-Adefulire further stated that the conferment by LASU is not just a recognition of Pedro’s achievements, but an affirmation of the enduring values he represents: humility, integrity, and service to humanity.
She commended the Lagos State University for recognising one of its most distinguished alumni, adding that the honour would serve as motivation for emerging leaders and professionals across Nigeria and beyond.
“This award is a timely reminder that true greatness is measured not only by accomplishments, but by the positive impact one has on people, institutions, and society at large,” she added.
She prayed for God’s continued guidance, strength, and good health for Otunba Pedro as he continues to contribute meaningfully to the development of Lagos State, Nigeria, and the global community.