By George Ozalla
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, PhD, CFR, has emphasised that the success of Nigeria’s ongoing constitution review process depends largely on the support and cooperation of state governors and legislatures.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, at the Government House, on the sidelines of the retreat of the House Committee on Constitution Review on Friday night, Kalu — who chairs the Committee — expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) for their collaboration and encouragement so far.
According to him, the Forum has demonstrated commendable engagement, adding that their continued partnership would determine the pace and success of the amendment process.
“We are making an appeal to you because we need you,” Kalu said. “Please, help us thank your brother governors for supporting the initiative of the Constitution review. The Governors’ Forum has in one way or the other shown us support. From the chairman to every member, we say thank you. Please, express our gratitude when you meet with them.
“Also, let them know that without them, we cannot make this Constitution. It is not possible because the Houses of Assembly will need to go through this document. We will not coerce them, but we know you can liaise with them to help get this document back to us as quickly as possible. If the governors are not in support, we will be running in circles. But with progressively minded governors like you, I am sure you will speak to your colleagues to keep backing us up.”
The Deputy Speaker further highlighted the need for the active participation of the Conference of Speakers of State Assemblies, acknowledging their previous contributions and urging deeper collaboration.
He noted that the constitution amendment exercise aims to produce a more functional and inclusive framework that empowers local governments to deliver services effectively, streamlines electoral justice, strengthens fiscal federalism, guarantees women’s full participation in governance, and enhances accountability at all levels.
In his remarks, Governor Peter Mbah commended Kalu and his committee for simplifying the constitutional review process and making it more participatory through zonal public hearings.
“I want to commend your leadership and diligence over the period of the public hearing,” Mbah said. “You have demonstrated real commitment in this process, and for the first time, we are now taking it to the granular level — getting into the details, clause by clause, line by line. This is what this retreat is all about, and I must commend you and your team for your dedication. Welcome once again to Enugu State.”
The event was part of the ongoing efforts by the House Committee on Constitution Review to deepen consultations and foster collaboration across all levels of government toward delivering a people-oriented Constitution.
According to a press statement signed by Levinus Nwabughiogu, Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Speaker, the retreat is expected to continue this weekend.
