Transitioning from a Presidential System to a Parliamentary System: A Path to National Advancement

Your Excellency, President of the Senate, distinguished colleagues, and esteemed citizens of Nigeria. My name is Senator Munir Ned Nwoko, and I represent the people of Delta North senatorial district. I rise today to address a matter of paramount importance to our great nation—the need to review the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria with the aim of transitioning from the current presidential system of government to a parliamentary system. As we stand at this significant juncture in our nation's history, we have the opportunity to shape the future of governance in Nigeria for the betterment and advancement of our beloved nation.

Before delving into the details of a parliamentary system, it is imperative to acknowledge the challenges and limitations inherent in the current presidential system of government. It is clear that Nigeria's presidential system has, over the years, presented substantial governance obstacles, such as the concentration of power in the hands of a single individual, the potential for gridlock between the executive and legislative branches, and the limited accountability mechanisms for executive actions.

On the other hand, a parliamentary system offers numerous advantages that can address these inherent flaws and pave the way for a more effective, accountable, and stable governance structure. The essence of a parliamentary system lies in the fusion of the executive and legislative branches, where the head of government is drawn from the majority party in the legislature.

Under a parliamentary system, the head of government, typically the Prime Minister, is accountable to the parliament, creating a direct line of accountability between the executive and the legislature. This fosters greater cooperation and synergy between the two branches, mitigating the potential for political gridlock and ensuring the swift passage of crucial legislation for the benefit of our nation. Additionally, the parliamentary system emphasizes collective responsibility, as the cabinet members are drawn from the parliament, promoting unity and consensus in decision-making.

It is essential to note that many successful nations have embraced parliamentary systems, leading to stable governance, effective policymaking, and enhanced national development. Countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom, and Germany serve as examples of the successful implementation of parliamentary systems, demonstrating their adaptability to diverse cultural and societal contexts.

Given the challenges faced by our current presidential system and the proven efficacy of parliamentary systems worldwide, it is our duty as representatives of the Nigerian people to earnestly consider the transition to a parliamentary system as a means of advancing our nation's governance structure. This transition aligns with our shared goal of fostering a more inclusive, accountable, and stable government, thereby laying the foundation for sustainable socio-economic development and progress.

In light of the foregoing, I propose the inclusion of specific constitutional amendments to facilitate the transition from a presidential to a parliamentary system of government. These amendments are intended to address critical components such as the structure of the executive, the relationship between the executive and legislative branches, and the mechanisms for electoral and governmental accountability.

1. Amend the constitution to abolish the direct election of a president and establish the position of Prime Minister, who will be appointed from the majority party in the parliament.

2. Strengthen the powers of the parliament in overseeing the executive branch, including the ability to pass votes of no confidence and hold the executive accountable for its actions.

3. Implement electoral reforms to ensure that parliamentary elections reflect the will of the people and enable the formation of a stable government based on majority support in the legislature.

4. Establish a clear and orderly transition process from the current presidential system to the proposed parliamentary system, taking into account the necessary institutional changes and safeguards.

Distinguished Senators, the transition from a presidential system to a parliamentary system represents a pivotal opportunity to chart a new course for Nigeria's governance, one that is founded on cooperation, accountability, and stability. By embracing this reform, we can address the shortcomings of the current system and build a more resilient and inclusive government that is responsive to the needs of our citizens. I urge all my esteemed colleagues to join hands in support of this progressive initiative and work collaboratively in shaping a brighter future for Nigeria.

Thank you.