Bamidele Proposes Six-Year Term for Nigerian Leaders

Opeyemi Bamidele, the Senate Leader, disclosed plans to sponsor a bill proposing a single six-year term for presidents and governors in Nigeria. This initiative aims to allow elected leaders to focus on governance without the distraction of re-election campaigns.

Bamidele revealed this during an interview on Tuesday, stating that the current two-term system, which allows a maximum of two four-year terms, often compels elected officials to strategize for a second term midway through their first term. He believes that a single six-year tenure would alleviate the pressure associated with re-election efforts.

Bamidele plans to introduce this bill in the next Senate session after the 2027 general elections. He acknowledged that while the proposal may not attract unanimous support, it is essential for legislative reform to improve governance.

The bill would require significant constitutional amendments, needing approval from at least two-thirds of state houses of assembly to become law. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has previously advocated for a similar single-term proposal.