Senate Moves for 6-Year Single Term for President, Governors

The Nigerian Senate is considering a major constitutional amendment that would introduce a single six-year term for the President and state governors following the 2027 general elections.

Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, disclosed that the proposal is part of ongoing discussions on electoral and governance reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process and reducing election-cycle tensions.

According to him, the idea is being reviewed alongside other constitutional review proposals currently before the National Assembly, with lawmakers expected to engage stakeholders before any final decision is taken.

The proposed reform seeks to replace the current two-term system with a single, non-renewable six-year tenure for elected executives at both federal and state levels.

If adopted, the move would represent one of the most significant changes to Nigeria’s democratic structure since the return to civilian rule in 1999.

Bamidele, however, noted that the proposal is still at the discussion stage and would require broad consultations, constitutional amendments, and approval by both chambers of the National Assembly as well as state legislatures.

The Senate Leader emphasized that the reform agenda is aimed at promoting stability, reducing election-related spending, and improving governance delivery across the country.