Tinubu, the leader of the Nass recycled the constitutional reform of the promises in the midst of increasing public doubts

Apart from a few decades of efforts that failed to overhaul the defective Nigerian constitution in 1999, the President of the Tinubu Bola and the leaders of the main national assembly once again promised commitment for reform – offering high rhetoric but a little in a concrete guarantee.

Speaking through the Federation Government Secretary (SGF), Senator George Akume, at the National Public Hearing in Abuja, Tinubu framing the exercise as a “golden opportunity” to improve governance, deepen federalism, and protect citizens’ rights. But for many observers, the announcement began to ring after the recurring reform cycle with a minimum follow -up.

“The constitution is the highest law of the land. This is not static, but a living document that must continue to respond to the reality, aspirations, and challenges of our people,” Akume said on behalf of Tinubu.

“I urged all participants to approach this exercise with the spirit of patriotism, responsibilities, and constructive dialogue,” he added, claiming the government would provide “decent attention.”

But critics argue that such a declaration has become a predicted political theater. The sequential government has used constitutional reform panels to calm public frustration while avoiding fundamental changes, especially about decentralization, local government autonomy, and election accountability.

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The President also praised the Committee for involving various stakeholders, but did not offer a clear time for actual implementation – doubting further doubts about the seriousness of administration.

Speaker of the DPR. Abbas Tajudeen echoed Tinubu’s optimism, describing hearing as an “important moment” in Nigerian democracy. He urged nigerians to be involved, but once again failed to commit to specific time deadlines to provide reform.

“Delayed reforms are reforms that are rejected, and Nigerians deserve clarity and closure. We intend to vote on the proposal quickly and provide enough countries to consider and support the people’s will,” Tajudeen said.

But the guarantee is in contrast to the track record of constitutional review efforts, many of which have been stopped in legislative or secretly suspended traffic jams after launching headlines.

Among the proposals highlighted by Tajudeen is a chair that is reserved for women, representatives for people with disabilities, and gender quota in the role of the minister. He also mentioned the role of advisors for traditional rulers – ideas that have long been circulating without meaningful adoption.

Deputy speaker representative of Benjamin Kalu, led the Constitutional Review Committee, noted that 87 Amendment Bill had emerged from hearing and consultation, including in major fields such as election reforms, independent nominations, and decentralization of police power.

“The highest authority for this process lives with you, sovereign people in Nigeria; constitutional reforms are marathons, not sprints,” said Kalu.

But for the public who are tired by the marathon process that does not lead to anywhere, such comments can only deepen skepticism. When Nigeria continues to wrestle with insecurity, corruption, and institutional dysfunction, many are wondering whether the round of the latest reform talk is only a delay tactic – which is more designed to calm than to change.