Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has called for far-reaching constitutional reforms to entrench true federalism by granting states control over natural resources within their territories.
The governor’s call came as Kano State demanded the creation of an additional state and 26 new local government areas, while Katsina State emphasized devolution of powers and institutional strengthening as pathways to national unity and democratic consolidation.
The positions were presented at the North West Zonal Public Hearing of the Constitution Review process held Saturday at the late Gen. Hassan Katsina House, Kawo Kaduna, where a diverse array of political leaders, civil society groups, traditional rulers, and grassroots stakeholders converged to air their demands.
Speaking through his deputy, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, Governor Sani stated that the country’s current centralised federal system has not only stifled innovation but also alienated citizens from governance.
He said the imbalance in fiscal control and legislative power has exacerbated agitations and instability.
“Our current federal arrangement does not sufficiently reflect the principle of subsidiarity — where powers and responsibilities are devolved to the level of government closest to the people.
“States must be empowered not only to legislate on local matters but also to control and directly benefit from the resources found within their jurisdictions, while making constitutionally defined contributions to national development,” said.
The governor described fiscal federalism as a constitutional necessity, not a favour to states, saying that “ignoring these genuine yearnings could continue to undermine Nigeria’s unity.”
He also reiterated his longstanding advocacy for the establishment of state police, noting that bills he sponsored in the 9th Senate were stalled due to political disagreements.
However, he expressed optimism, saying the political consensus for decentralised policing was now stronger than ever.
“Security cannot be national if it is not local. Kaduna is ready to support constitutional amendments that will institutionalise state police and improve our collective security architecture,” he said
Sani further advocated for the constitutional independence of critical institutions like the judiciary, INEC, and anti-graft agencies, and called for affirmative measures to promote women’s participation in governance.
He also urged for stronger roles and constitutional recognition for traditional rulers as governance partners at the grassroots level.
In a similar vein, Kano State demanded for the creation of a new state out of its current territory and the establishment of 26 additional local government areas, raising the number from 44 to 70.
Presenting Kano’s position, Deputy Governor Comrade Aminu Abdulssalam Gwarzo said the demands were rooted in a rigorous, participatory process involving citizens across the state.
“Kano identifies with the yearnings of various communities for restructuring and supports the creation of new states, provided such moves comply with Section 8 of the Constitution,” Gwarzo stated.
“We also strongly advocate the creation of 26 additional local governments to meet the developmental aspirations of our people,” Gwarzo stated.
The Kano memorandum, signed by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, also demanded full constitutional recognition and autonomy for local governments, proposing amendments to Sections 2(2), 7 and 162(5) to solidify their status as the third tier of government.
On security, Kano backed the call for state police, but stressed the need for clear demarcation of responsibilities between state and federal police forces to prevent operational conflict.
The state also proposed a National Council of Traditional Rulers, comprising chairpersons of state traditional councils, to advise the Federal Government on national issues. It pushed for constitutional protection of the appointment process of traditional rulers to guard against political interference.
In the fiscal arena, Kano proposed a revision of the revenue allocation formula—reducing the Federal Government’s share from 52.68% to 40%, increasing state allocations to 35%, and raising LGAs’ share to 25%.
“This will ensure fiscal justice, empower states and LGAs to fulfil their constitutional responsibilities and foster balanced development,” the memo read.
Kano also threw its weight behind the National Assembly’s gender equity agenda, pledging support for legislative reforms that would increase women’s representation in politics and governance.
“The memorandum we submitted today reflects the collective will of Kano people. We urge the National Assembly to give our modest proposals the serious consideration they deserve,” Gwarzo said.
Meanwhile, Katsina State presented a position paper delivered by its Governor Dikko Umar Radda, describing the constitution review process as a critical national assignment.
The Governor said the memorandum from Katsina reflected deep stakeholder consultations and prioritised fiscal federalism, institutional reforms, and inclusive governance.
Governor, who was represented by the Attorney General of the State and Commissioner for Justice, Fadila Mohammed Dikko said, “As we gather here today, we are reminded of the significance of this moment. The Constitution is the foundation of our democracy, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that it is robust, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of all Nigerians.
“The position paper that I present to you today is the result of extensive consultations with stakeholders across Katsina State.
“It reflects our commitment to the unity, stability, and progress of Nigeria. We believe that the proposed amendments should prioritize the devolution of powers, fiscal federalism, and the strengthening of institutions.
“We also believe that the Constitution should promote inclusive governance, social justice, and human rights.The position paper outlines our stance on key issues, including local government reforms, electoral reforms, judicial reforms, and security and policing.” He pledged Katsina’s commitment to a united and prosperous Nigeria and called on all stakeholders to approach the amendment exercise with sincerity and patriotism.
“Let us work together to build a Nigeria that is just, equitable, and prosperous for all,” he urged.
Earlier in his opening remarks, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Sub-Committee on Constitution Review for North West Centre ‘A’, Rt. Hon. Madaki Aliyu Sani, assured that the National Assembly was committed to an inclusive and transparent review process.
“We are not just revising words on paper; we are refining the tools of nation-building,” Madaki, who is also the Deputy Minority Leader of the House, declared.
He said the process would examine 86 bills across 13 thematic areas, including security, devolution of powers, gender inclusion, traditional institutions, and fiscal reforms.
“No voice will be too small, no idea too radical, and no region too remote to be heard,” he assured.
The event attracted participants from Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa states, alongside professional bodies, traditional councils, women groups, and civil society organizations, all eager to contribute to what many described as a historic opportunity to reshape Nigeria’s constitutional framework.
