Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has reignited debate on Nigeria’s political tenure system by advocating a single, non-renewable term for presidents and state governors. He argues that the current two-term system often distracts leaders from effective governance, as the pursuit of a second term can limit their ability to make tough but necessary decisions.
Speaking during the swearing-in of new commissioners, local government chairmen, permanent secretaries, and board members, Bago revealed that the fear of losing political support prevented him from taking certain actions that could have advanced development in his state.
“There are steps I ought to have taken to move the state forward, but I dared not because of fear that taking such decisions would affect my victory in 2027,” he said. He suggested that a single term would allow leaders to focus entirely on governance without being preoccupied with re-election.
Bago’s proposal has received widespread backing from political figures and civil society leaders. Former Senate President Adolphus Wabara commended Bago, saying a single term could reduce corruption and waste associated with second-term campaigns. “Second term is not working for us because leaders focus on winning re-election rather than performing. A six-year single term would allow them to fully concentrate on the job,” Wabara noted.
Legal experts also weighed in, saying a single, non-renewable term could encourage bold reforms, long-term planning, and fiscal responsibility. Chief Bolaji Ayorinde, SAN, explained that such a system could free leaders from electoral pressures, allowing them to make decisions in the public interest rather than for political expediency.
However, he emphasized that strong institutional oversight, an independent judiciary, and active auditing would still be necessary to ensure accountability.
Human rights advocates and public affairs analysts highlighted the potential benefits of the reform.
They noted that leaders often divert public resources toward re-election campaigns, compromising citizens’ socio-economic rights. A single term, they argued, could reduce opportunities for corruption and ensure that policies and public services are implemented effectively.
Former ministers and regional groups have also expressed support for a single-term tenure of five to six years, saying it would help leaders focus on responsibilities without distraction.
Some suggested the reform should extend to legislative offices to prevent similar re-election distractions. Others, however, warned that a single-term system could encourage complacency or reckless decision-making if not paired with strong democratic institutions and oversight.
Civil society groups have echoed these views, arguing that a single term could reduce wasteful politicking and allow leaders to dedicate more time and resources to national development. Advocates say the proposal deserves urgent consideration to improve governance, strengthen accountability, and prioritize public interest over political ambition.
