Abuja, Nigeria – Nigeria’s House of Representatives has extended the deadline for submitting memoranda on creating new states and local governments.
Through its Constitutional Review Committee, the decision responds to public demand and allows proponents more time to refine proposals.
By granting this extension, the committee aims to ensure thorough deliberation and inclusivity. Stakeholders can now strengthen submissions, fostering equitable outcomes in constitutional reforms.
Initially scheduled to close on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, the deadline has now been extended to Wednesday, March 26, 2025.
This extension aims to provide stakeholders with its prior submissions that did not meet constitutional requirements.
Specifically, it grants them the chance to resubmit their memoranda and proposals according to the rules specified in Section 8 of the 1999 Constitution (As Amended).
Under Section 8(1) of the Constitution, the creation of a new state requires support from a two-thirds majority. Thus, elected representatives from the affected area must include members from the Nigeria Senate, House of Representatives, State Assembly, and Local Government Councils.
Moreover, when creating new local governments, Section 8(3) mandates submitting voting outcomes from the State Assembly and referendum results. Consequently, these submissions must reach the National Assembly for further legislative review and action.
The Committee has emphasized that all submissions must adhere strictly to these constitutional provisions. Proponents are encouraged to use the additional time to ensure their proposals meet all legal and procedural requirements before submission.
This development reflects the House’s commitment to fostering inclusive governance and addressing public aspirations through constitutional processes.