Quick Summary:
AgeReductionBill2025 as lawmakers push constitutional amendment to lower the minimum age for Senate and governorship positions, aiming to expand youth participation in politics.
Bill to Amend Age Qualification
A new legislative proposal titled ‘A Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) to Reduce the Age for Qualification for Membership of the Senate and Office of the Governor and for Related Matters (HB. 2235)’ has passed its second reading in the House of Representatives.
The bill, sponsored by Esin Martin Etim and twenty-four other lawmakers, seeks to reduce the minimum age requirement for candidates aspiring to the Senate and governorship positions from 35 years to 30 years.
Current Constitutional Provisions
Under the existing 1999 Constitution, candidates must be at least 35 years old to contest for the Senate or governorship, while those seeking election into the House of Representatives may contest from age 25.
Etim, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker representing Mbo/Okobo/Oron/Udung Uko/Urue Federal Constituency of Akwa Ibom State, argued that the current age threshold limits opportunities for young legislators aspiring to higher political offices.
Rationale Behind the Amendment
Etim explained that the 10-year gap between eligibility for the House of Representatives and higher offices restricts political progression for young lawmakers.
He noted that a legislator who enters the House at 25 years old and completes two four-year terms would still be ineligible to contest for Senate or governorship at age 33.
The proposed amendment would reduce the gap to five years, allowing more seamless advancement for young politicians.
Legislative Progress
After Etim presented the bill, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas put it to a voice vote. The majority of lawmakers supported its second reading, signaling broad approval for the initiative.
The bill has now been referred to the House Committee on Constitution Review for further legislative consideration and possible inclusion in the next round of constitutional amendments.