By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele has announced plans to sponsor a bill that would introduce a single six-year tenure for Nigeria’s presidents and governors after the 2027 general elections. Bamidele disclosed the proposal on Tuesday while speaking with journalists in his office. He said the reform would allow elected leaders to focus on governance instead of re-election campaigns. The bill would be introduced in the next Senate and would require constitutional amendments before becoming law.
Bamidele Pushes for Major Constitutional Reform
Bamidele said the proposed legislation would be among the first bills he intends to sponsor when the 11th Senate is inaugurated.
According to him, the current two-term system often shifts attention away from governance. He argued that many officeholders spend a significant part of their first term planning for re-election.
“One of the first bills I look forward to moving, by God’s grace, when we return for the 11th Senate, is a bill that will make it possible for any president or governor to serve only one term of six years,” he said.
Focus on Governance Rather Than Re-Election
The Senate Leader maintained that a single six-year tenure would help leaders concentrate on delivering results from the start of their administration.
He explained that politicians currently spend considerable time building political structures and strategies for a second term.
“So that you don’t have to spend almost one and a half years of your first term thinking about re-election,” Bamidele stated.
He added that leaders would be motivated to maximize their time in office if they knew they had only one opportunity to serve.
“If you know you are there for six years and only one tenure, you put in your best from day one. You know this is the only chance you have,” he said.
Proposal Expected to Generate National Debate
Bamidele acknowledged that not everyone would support the proposal. However, he stressed that lawmakers must champion reforms they believe will strengthen governance and democratic institutions.
“That’s my opinion. It doesn’t mean everybody will agree with me. But it also doesn’t mean I should be prevented from pursuing it because it is not yet the law,” he said.
Constitutional Amendments Required
If the National Assembly passes the bill, lawmakers would need to amend relevant sections of the Constitution before the reform could take effect.
Political observers expect the proposal to spark nationwide debate. Discussions are likely to focus on governance efficiency, accountability, democratic stability, and the future structure of Nigeria’s executive offices.
Laws Must Evolve With Society
Bamidele also defended the need for continuous legislative reforms. He argued that laws should reflect changing realities and national priorities.
“The essence of law and parliament is that laws are like human beings; they grow,” he said.
The Senate Leader believes the proposed single-term system could improve leadership performance and reduce political distractions across all levels of executive government.
