N’Assembly transmits 2026 Constitution amendment Bill to 36 states

The National Assembly in Nigeria has sent the proposed Constitution amendment Bill for the year 2026 to all 36 state Houses of Assembly for their review and approval. This action was taken based on a directive from the leadership of the National Assembly and in line with Section 9 of the 1999 Constitution. This section mandates that any Bill aiming to alter the Constitution must be endorsed by at least two-thirds of the state Houses of Assembly before it can proceed to the National Assembly for final approval.

Musa Luka Musa, a source at the National Assembly, revealed this in a recent statement. He explained that the process is in accordance with the respective legislative procedures of each state legislature. The state assemblies are expected to communicate their decisions on the Bill within 30 days of receiving it. However, it's important to note that this 30-day period is a standard administrative timeframe and not a constitutional deadline.

The National Assembly acknowledges the constitutional authority of the state legislatures and respects their independence in the review of the Bill. The transmission of the Bill to the state assemblies is a step towards ensuring the orderly progress of the amendment process. Once the National Assembly receives the resolutions from all 36 state Houses, it will proceed with the subsequent steps as per the Constitution.

The National Assembly also emphasized its commitment to adhering to the principles of due process, institutional cooperation, and the respect for the legislative responsibilities of all levels of government throughout this amendment process.