As Nigeria celebrates its 64th Independence anniversary, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele has urged national leaders to address the country’s critical challenges.
Despite 64 years of independence and 110 years of unity, Nigeria still faces significant socio-economic and political issues, Bamidele said in a statement. He emphasized the need for unity, saying leaders should focus on what unites the nation rather than divisions along ethnic, political, and religious lines.
“At this trying time, we must decisively address what easily divides us to build a resilient federation that works for all,” Bamidele stated. He called on leaders across sectors to collaborate and find solutions to problems threatening national harmony and collective prosperity.
Bamidele also highlighted the importance of reviewing the 1999 Constitution, currently underway at the National Assembly. The review process has received 37 fresh memoranda from stakeholders and 16 constitution amendment bills from the previous assembly.
Among the proposals under consideration are measures to address state police, diaspora voting, financial autonomy for local governments, judicial independence, special seats for women in legislative bodies, and the creation of a National Council of Traditional Rulers.
Public hearings on the constitution review are scheduled to begin in January 2025. Bamidele encouraged further participation from Nigerians, assuring that all interests will be considered as the review process progresses.