Governor Mutfwang Advocate for State Police, Gender Inclusion and Fiscal Federalism at Constitution Review Hearing in Jos.

In a statement by the Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, the two-day North Central Zonal Public Hearing on the review of the 1999 Constitution commenced on Friday, July 4, 2025, in Jos, with the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, making a compelling case for far-reaching constitutional reforms to reflect the evolving realities of the Nigerian federation.

Held at Crispan Hotel, Jos, the hearing brought together delegates and stakeholders from the six North Central states of Nasarawa, Kwara, Kogi, Benue, Niger, and Plateau as well as the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

The event is part of the broader national constitutional review process driven by the National Assembly. The Senate Sub-Committee, led by Deputy Senate Leader, Senator Ashiru Oyelola Yisa, presided over the hearing, which seeks to gather citizens’ input to shape a more inclusive, responsive, and enduring national document.

In his remarks, Senator Ashiru described the public hearing as a vital platform for strengthening democratic governance and addressing the nation’s structural challenges.

“This exercise is designed to engender good governance, strengthen institutions, and promote our national aspirations,” he stated. “It is a direct response to increasing public concerns over the structure and function of our national framework.”

Declaring the hearing open, Governor Mutfwang emphasized the historical significance of Plateau State as a cradle of democratic discourse and urged Nigerians to seize the opportunity to make bold and constructive contributions to national development.

“This review gives us a unique window to influence the Constitution so that it reflects our collective hopes, protects our rights, and moves us toward shared prosperity,” he said.

The Governor highlighted several priority areas for urgent reform, notably the establishment of State Police to address the country’s worsening security challenges.

“We must face the reality that a centralized police structure can no longer effectively secure our communities. It is time to decentralize policing and empower states to take direct responsibility for internal security,” he declared.

Governor Mutfwang also made a passionate appeal for gender inclusion, stressing the need for constitutional provisions that recognize and elevate the contributions of women to national development.

“We must constitutionally accommodate the gifts and leadership capacity that God has placed in our women,” he noted.

Other critical areas the Governor advocated for include:

Fiscal federalism, allowing subnational governments greater autonomy over resources within their domains.

Recognition of traditional institutions as indispensable partners in governance, peacebuilding, and community development.

Inclusion of Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs) in governance structures and national development planning.

“Throughout our history, Nigerians have demonstrated resilience and a consistent desire to improve the structure of our nation. Now is the time to act with courage and clarity of purpose to shape a Constitution that truly serves all citizens,” Mutfwang said.

He further charged lawmakers to carry out their assignment with patriotism and vision, cautioning against tribal or partisan interests that could undermine the integrity of the process.

“The Constitution we reform today will determine the future our children will inherit.”

Earlier, the Senate delegation paid a courtesy visit to Governor Mutfwang at the Government House, Little Rayfield, to formally notify him of their mission and seek the state’s support in mobilizing stakeholders for effective engagement.

The public hearing continues on Saturday, with memoranda expected from civil society organizations, women’s groups, professional bodies, faith-based organizations, and traditional rulers.

Also in attendance were Plateau State’s three Senators, representing the Central, North, and Southern zones, who joined the Senate delegation in this important constitutional review effort.