Senator Suleiman Sadiq-Umar, representing Kwara North Senatorial District, has urged Nigerians to actively engage in the constitutional review process, calling it a "critical opportunity" to reshape governance and strengthen federalism.

Speaking at the 2025 Press Week of Kwara State Television Authority (KWTV) and Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Ilorin, the Senate Committee Chairman on Rules and Business stressed: "Our Constitution is not just a legal document it's a living social contract reflecting our collective identity. For 200 million Nigerians, it must be dynamic and inclusive."

Highlighting the review's significance, Senator Sadiq-Umar also a member of the Senate Committee on Trade and Investment emphasised public ownership: "This is our chance to take charge of Nigeria's governance framework. Silence equals surrendering your voice." His remarks, delivered under the theme "Pros and Cons of Constitutional Review," underscored the need for citizen-driven reforms to deepen democracy.

Policy and implementation

The lawmaker identified political resistance, poor public awareness, and a wide gap between policy and implementation as persistent barriers to successful constitutional amendments.

He warned that unless these bottlenecks are decisively addressed, the current effort could end up like previous ones.

"We must move beyond elite conversations. Every Nigerian has a role to play," he said. "This is a chance to embed gender and youth inclusion, devolve powers, and strengthen local government autonomy."

Sadiq-Umar also called on journalists to step up their watchdog role by demystifying the review process, enlightening the public, and ensuring leaders are held accountable.

He praised the state Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his consistent support for media houses in the state.

National conversations

In a goodwill message, the Kwara State Commissioner for Communications, Mrs. Bolanle Olukoju represented by the Director of Information Services, Alhaji Salau Jimoh praised the NUJ KWTV Chapel for driving important national conversations.

She restated the commitment of the AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq administration to supporting media freedom and professionalism in the State.

Relevant intervention

The General Manager of KWTV, Mallam Ayobami Akanbi, described the senator's remarks as timely and commended the press week as a relevant intervention amid the ongoing constitutional reform efforts.

In her address, Chairperson of the KWTV NUJ Chapel, Busayo Aweda, acknowledged recent improvements at the station, including the procurement of two new cameras and better staff welfare, courtesy of the state government.

Kwara NUJ Chairman, Comrade Lateef Lanre Ahmed, and other speakers also underscored the indispensable role of the media in democracy and nation-building.