Nigeria’s Statesmen Chart New Course for Democracy
The summit, which brought together some of Nigeria’s most esteemed elder statesmen, former governors, civil society leaders, traditional rulers, and political reform advocates, aimed to forge a new national consensus on the path toward a genuinely people-driven constitution. It marked a historic turning point in Nigeria’s protracted search for a more accountable, inclusive, and truly federal democratic framework.
In his post-summit remarks, Che Olawale Okunniyi, Head of the Summit Joint Secretariat, expressed deep gratitude to all who participated- whether in person or virtually- acknowledging their unwavering dedication to national progress. He described the gathering as “a decisive effort to restore constitutional legitimacy and democratic order, founded not on imposition, but on popular consent.”
As part of the next phase in the summit process, organisers have scheduled a press conference and public presentation of the summit communiqué for Friday, July 18, 2025, at 11:00 AM, to be held at Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall, NICON Luxury Hotel, Abuja. Members of the press are warmly invited to attend and engage with the key outcomes and declarations arising from the summit deliberations.
A Call for a People’s Constitution
At the heart of the Abuja Summit was the collective resolve to reimagine Nigeria’s constitutional foundation. Speakers and delegates underscored that the current 1999 Constitution- enacted under military rule- lacks the moral and political legitimacy of a document born through popular sovereignty.
Under the dignified chairmanship of His Excellency, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, GCON, CFR, former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth and Chairman of The PATRIOTS, the summit facilitated open and rigorous dialogue on the imperatives of federal restructuring, devolution of powers, electoral reform, justice sector overhaul, and the urgent need for an authentic constitution negotiated by the Nigerian people.
The event also featured the participation of distinguished Nigerians across political, generational, and ethnic lines, reinforcing its claim to broad-based legitimacy and national unity.
From Advocacy to Institutional Action
According to organisers, the summit’s resolutions are not intended to be shelved as academic aspirations, but rather serve as a launching pad for coordinated national advocacy, policy engagement, and legislative reform.
“The communiqué we are set to unveil reflects months of consultations and two days of intensive national dialogue,” Okunniyi affirmed. “It embodies the hopes and concerns of Nigerians yearning for a more responsive and just political system.”
Observers note that the collaboration between The PATRIOTS and the NPSG signals a renewed seriousness in advancing constitutional discourse beyond rhetoric. Their combined institutional gravitas, national reach, and reformist credibility lend weight to the resolutions that will be presented to the public and key stakeholders.
Media, Civil Society and the Youth Urged to Remain Vigilant
The PATRIOTS and NPSG expressed appreciation to all institutional partners, development agencies, civic groups, and the media for their support in facilitating the summit’s success. Special acknowledgement was extended to the Nigerian youth, whose involvement was hailed as a symbol of the nation’s future- and a reminder that constitutional reform must speak to generational justice.
The communiqué presentation on Friday is expected to outline a strategic roadmap for constitutional change, laying the groundwork for a truly sovereign national conference or constituent assembly to draft a new people’s constitution.
The organisers have reiterated their call for the media to play its crucial watchdog role and for citizens to stay engaged.
As Nigeria stands on the cusp of democratic renewal, this summit may be remembered not just as a conference- but as a catalyst for constitutional rebirth.