The House of Representatives has passed a significant bill to amend the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, paving the way for the creation of the Office of the Prime Minister as the head of government.
The bill, which also redefines the President’s role as head of state, has passed its second reading, among 32 other proposed constitutional amendments.
One key provision in the bill outlines a framework for the election process to fill both the President and Prime Minister positions. If passed into law, this bill could reshape Nigeria’s political landscape.
In a related move, lawmakers also approved amendments aimed at enhancing gender representation, with provisions for specific seats for women in the National Assembly and state assemblies. Additionally, a bill seeking to expedite the determination of pre-election petitions, along with the establishment of pre-election tribunals, passed its second reading.
“The amendments reflect our commitment to improving the structure of governance in Nigeria,” said a key lawmaker involved in the process. Another bill to review the requirements for presidential and gubernatorial elections also passed.
The ongoing constitutional amendments include provisions for the creation of new states, including the proposed Wan and Gobir States, and a reevaluation of the Federal Capital Territory’s status in presidential elections.
As of now, a total of 11 constitutional amendment bills have passed their second reading. These proposals are expected to undergo further scrutiny before a final vote.