The Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu-led House Committee on Constitution Review (HCCR) is set to host a crucial one-day National Dialogue on Local Government and Constitution Amendment on Monday, December 2, 2024, at the Congress Hall, Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.
The event, organized in collaboration with the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) and supported by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO), marks a significant step in the Committee’s ongoing engagement with stakeholders concerning the Sixth Alteration of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, GCON, will grace the event as the Guest of Honour. The dialogue will commence promptly at 9:00 AM.
The focus of the discussions will revolve around key issues critical to the reform of local governments in Nigeria, including:
- Financial and administrative autonomy for local governments
- Ensuring free and fair local council elections
- Promoting accountability and transparency at the local government level
- Strengthening the roles of stakeholders such as Federal and State Governments, the Judiciary, the National and State Houses of Assembly, civil society organizations, traditional rulers, and local communities in advancing local government reform.
According to the HCCR, the dialogue aims to produce a roadmap that will guide specific constitutional provisions necessary for amendments to Nigeria’s constitution.
Ahead of the event, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker and Chairman of the HCCR, emphasized the significance of the dialogue, stating: “This event is a vital platform to consolidate ideas and strategies for achieving a robust local government framework, which is critical to our constitutional review efforts. As we continue in this historic undertaking, let us remain guided by our shared commitment to strengthening our democracy, deepening our federal structure, and fostering unity and prosperity for all Nigerians.”
The dialogue is part of the broader legislative agenda for the 2023-2027 period, specifically focusing on Article 6.3 of the Legislative Agenda, which emphasizes Local Government Reform as outlined in Law Reform (Agenda 3).
For further details, interested individuals can visit hccr.gov.ng or contact the designated representative at +234-8069232381.
