Back to: Religion and National Value JSS 3
Welcome to class!
In today’s class, we’re going to be talking about the general provisions of the Nigerian constitution. I trust you will enjoy the class!
General Provisions of the Nigerian Constitution
The Nigerian Constitution is the supreme law of Nigeria and it lays down the framework for the political, social, and economic governance of the country. Here are some of its general provisions:
- Supremacy of the Constitution
– The Constitution is the highest law in Nigeria and all other laws and policies must align with it.
– Example: No law passed by the legislature can contradict the rights and principles laid out in the Constitution.
- Federal Structure
– Nigeria is a federal republic, meaning that power is shared between the national (federal) government and the state governments.
– Example: The federal government handles foreign affairs, while state governments may make laws on education.
- Fundamental Human Rights
– The Constitution guarantees fundamental human rights to all citizens, such as the right to life, freedom of speech, and freedom from discrimination.
– Example: Every Nigerian has the right to express their opinions freely, without fear of persecution.
- Legislative Powers
– The National Assembly, which consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives, has the power to make laws for the country.
– Example: The National Assembly can pass a law to improve the healthcare system in Nigeria.
- Executive Powers
– The President of Nigeria has the executive power to enforce laws and manage the affairs of the country¹.
– Example: The President can sign treaties with other countries.
- Judicial Powers
– The judiciary, including the Supreme Court, interprets the laws and ensures justice is served.
– Example: If someone feels their rights have been violated, they can take the case to court.
- Citizenship
– The Constitution defines who is a Nigerian citizen and outlines the process for acquiring citizenship.
– Example: A person born in Nigeria to Nigerian parents is automatically a Nigerian citizen.
- Directive Principles of State Policy
– These principles guide the government in making policies aimed at ensuring social and economic justice.
– Example: The government should aim to reduce poverty and provide education for all children.
- Local Government System
– The Constitution provides for the establishment and functions of local governments as the third tier of governance.
– Example: Local governments are responsible for community services like waste management.
- Prohibition of State Religion
– Nigeria does not have an official state religion, and the government must not adopt any religion as state religion.
– Example: Both Christian and Islamic religious studies are taught in schools without preference.
We have come to the end of today’s class. I hope you enjoyed the class!
In the next class, we shall be discussing the Supremacy of the Constitution.
In case you require further assistance or have any questions, feel free to ask in the comment section below, and trust us to respond as soon as possible. Cheers!
Question Time:
- What does the supremacy of the Constitution mean, and why is it important for Nigeria?
- Describe the federal structure of Nigeria as outlined in the Constitution. How does this affect governance?
- List three fundamental human rights guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution and explain their significance.
- What are the legislative powers of the National Assembly in Nigeria? Give an example of a law they might pass.
- Explain the executive powers of the President of Nigeria. What are some of the responsibilities of this role?
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