As Nigeria celebrates its 64th Independence anniversary, Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, has called on national leaders to urgently address the critical challenges undermining the country’s unity, prosperity, and stability.
In a statement issued by his Directorate of Media on Tuesday, to commemorate the anniversary, Bamidele emphasised the need for unity in confronting the socio-economic and political issues affecting the nation.
Bamidele highlighted that despite Nigeria’s 64 years of independence and 110 years of existence as a unified entity, the country continues to face significant challenges.
He urged leaders to 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 said.
He called on leaders across political, religious, and cultural sectors to collaborate and find solutions to the problems threatening national harmony and collective prosperity.
Bamidele also underscored the importance of the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution at the National Assembly, describing it as an opportunity to reform Nigeria’s federal structure for greater efficiency and functionality.
He revealed that the assembly had received 37 fresh memoranda from various stakeholders nationwide, along with 16 constitution amendment bills inherited from the previous assembly.
Among the proposals under consideration are the establishment of 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.
He called for further participation from Nigerians, assuring them that all interests would be considered as the review process progresses.
Public hearings on the constitution review are scheduled to begin in January 2025.
