Reps Push to Cut Governor, Senate Age Limit to 30

A proposal to reduce the minimum age for contesting the offices of state governor and senator has advanced in the House of Representatives, following its successful passage through second reading. The bill signals fresh legislative interest in widening political access for younger Nigerians.

Sponsored by Hon. Esin Martin Etim and 24 other lawmakers, the amendment seeks to adjust the 1999 Constitution to allow citizens aged 30 and above to vie for governorship and Senate seats. Supporters say the current minimum age of 35 has stalled upward mobility for young politicians who start their careers early in the legislature.

Etim argued that a lawmaker who enters the House of Representatives at 25 could complete two terms yet remain blocked from moving up until hitting 35, creating a gap that discourages progression. He insisted that a five-year incremental pathway—from 25 for the House to 30 for the Senate and governorship would promote generational renewal.

With majority backing and no opposition debate, the bill sailed through second reading and has now been forwarded to the Committee on Constitution Review for further consultations, harmonisation, and subsequent legislative action.