EU, UK and UN Endorse Nigeria’s Constitutional Reforms on State Police, Local Government Autonomy and Women’s Representation

Story: written by Peterson September 23,2025
Nigeria’s drive to amend its constitution received a major boost as global partners — including the European Union (EU), the United Kingdom (UK), and the United Nations (UN) — openly endorsed key reform proposals such as the creation of state police, full autonomy for local governments, and the allocation of reserved parliamentary seats for women.

The support was announced during a national public hearing on the constitution alteration bills organized by the House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review in Abuja. The hearing drew lawmakers, diplomats, civil society groups, women’s organizations, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other stakeholders.

Speaking on behalf of the UK, Deputy High Commissioner Gill Lever reaffirmed Britain’s commitment to Nigeria’s democratic reforms, particularly the Reserved Seats Bill aimed at boosting women’s representation in Parliament. She emphasized that stronger inclusion fosters public trust, equity, and a more resilient democracy.

The UK also highlighted the importance of decentralised policing, stressing that improved security cooperation will help both nations confront cross-border threats and promote stability.

In his remarks, Gautier Mignot, EU ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, explained that the European Union is closely monitoring the reform process while providing technical assistance and support for judicial reform, electoral transparency, fundamental rights, and strengthened local governance. He praised Nigeria’s efforts as a step toward becoming a model democracy in Africa.

The United Nations also threw its weight behind the Reserved Seats Bill, with Assistant Secretary General Mohammed Fall noting that the move would position Nigeria as a continental leader in inclusive governance.

The overwhelming turnout at the hearing underscored Nigeria’s appetite for participatory democracy, as citizens, policymakers, and global partners aligned on the urgent need for reforms that will make governance more inclusive, accountable, and responsive to the people.