Kalu’s Leadership and Members’ Dedication Driving Force Behind Constitution Review Progress – Reps Committee Spokesman

The House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review has credited the significant progress achieved in the ongoing constitutional amendment exercise to the exceptional leadership of its Chairman, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu, and the steadfast commitment of its members.

Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Monday, the Committee’s spokesperson, Hon. Philip Agbese, applauded the Deputy Speaker for infusing intellectual depth, inclusiveness, and clear vision into the process, describing him as “a brilliant reformer whose leadership has instilled confidence in the Constitution Review Committee.”

Agbese affirmed that under the guidance of Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, the House remains resolute in its mission to deliver a people-focused constitution that mirrors the aspirations of Nigerians from all regions and social classes.

“Hon. Benjamin Kalu’s brilliance, foresight, and managerial competence have been pivotal to the remarkable progress achieved so far. From the outset, he mapped out a clear strategy, fostered consensus across party lines, and ensured that every committee member is fully engaged in crafting a constitution that works for Nigeria. So far, the committee has successfully met all set timelines,” Agbese stated.

The lawmaker, representing Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State, also noted that the committee’s operations have been marked by an uncommon level of seriousness, patriotism, and collaboration.

“Our members are fully dedicated and conscious of the weight of responsibility placed on us by Nigerians. The level of participation from lawmakers, experts, civil society organisations, the diplomatic community, political parties, and citizens has been unprecedented,” he said.

Agbese disclosed that the committee has so far received hundreds of memoranda from diverse stakeholders — including state governments, civil society groups, traditional rulers, and professional bodies — addressing critical areas such as devolution of powers, women’s representation in parliament, state police, gender equality, and electoral reforms.

He further explained that the committee’s state, zonal, and national public hearings, along with technical sessions, were carefully designed to promote transparency, inclusivity, and broad-based citizen participation.

“Deputy Speaker Kalu has provided exceptional leadership by ensuring that the process is not confined to Abuja. Nigerians from every corner of the country have had the opportunity to make their voices heard. This inclusive approach has restored public confidence in the constitution review process,” Agbese emphasised.

He assured that the committee will sustain its momentum and produce a comprehensive report that will stand the test of time, noting that the next phase will focus on harmonising the various legislative proposals ahead of a final report to be presented before the House for voting.

“Our ultimate goal is to give Nigerians a constitution that truly serves them — one that deepens democracy, promotes fairness, and strengthens national unity,” he said.

Agbese also commended Speaker Abbas Tajudeen for providing the necessary institutional support and described the collaboration between the leadership of both chambers of the National Assembly as a major catalyst for the committee’s achievements.

“With the quality of leadership and commitment on display, Nigerians can be confident that this constitution review process will deliver tangible results — one that leaves a lasting legacy,” he stated.

It will be recalled that on September 22, the Constitution Review Committee held a national public hearing in Abuja as part of its ongoing engagements with Nigerians and critical stakeholders to gather diverse inputs for the amendment process.