In a renewed push for constitutional reforms, the National Assembly's ongoing constitutional review process took centre stag...
In a renewed push for constitutional reforms, the National Assembly's ongoing constitutional review process took centre stage in Minna, drawing wide participation from key stakeholders across Niger, Kwara, and Kogi States. The event, held at the Siyam Event Centre on Bosso Road, became a rallying point for communities advocating for a more inclusive and equitable Nigerian federation.
A major highlight of the gathering was the growing agitation for the creation of Kainji State. Influential grassroots organizations, including KEDI, KEYODA, and KFF, actively pressed their demand, insisting that the creation of Kainji State would address long-standing issues of marginalization, improve governance, and bring development closer to the people. Their coordinated efforts underscored the deep-rooted desire among the people of the Kainji area to gain administrative autonomy within the Nigerian federation.
Throughout the deliberations, participants reflected on critical national issues that have hindered local development for decades. Voices from local government areas echoed frustrations about poor governance structures, inadequate representation, and the imbalance in power distribution. The constitutional review was widely seen as a rare opportunity to reshape the governance framework and give local communities a stronger voice in national affairs.
Representatives from Niger, Borgu, and Kwara States passionately discussed the necessity of empowering local government councils, restoring their autonomy, and ending state-level manipulation of grassroots governance. There was strong advocacy for redefining the role of traditional rulers within the constitution, recognising their importance in community leadership and conflict resolution.
Participants also emphasized the need for decentralizing critical sectors such as railway transport, arguing that states and regions should have greater control over transport infrastructure to boost local economies. Calls were equally made for the reform of the local electoral process, with many insisting that State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs) have failed to conduct credible elections at the local level and should be stripped of the power to oversee local polls.
Another key demand was the transfer of full responsibility for primary education to local governments, with the belief that communities would be better positioned to manage and improve educational outcomes when given direct control and resources.
Speaking at the event, the National President of KEYODA stressed that the time had come for Nigeria to restructure its governance system to better reflect the diversity and aspirations of its people. He called on the National Assembly to ensure the views of grassroots communities are not ignored, especially in relation to local government autonomy, traditional leadership recognition, electoral reforms, infrastructure decentralization, and education management.
As the constitutional review consultations continue, the mood in Minna reflected both frustration with the status quo and hope for a transformative national reform. For many, this process represents a critical turning point in Nigeria’s democratic journey, where long-neglected voices can finally influence the future shape of the country.
No comments