The House of Representatives on Tuesday passed a bill for second reading aimed at lowering the minimum age for Senate and governorship elections from 35 to 30 years.

The legislation, titled “A Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) to Reduce the Age for Qualification for Membership of the Senate and Office of the Governor and for Related Matters (HB. 2235),” is sponsored by Hon. Esin Etim alongside 24 other lawmakers.

Currently, candidates for the Senate and governorship must be at least 35 years old, while those contesting for the House of Representatives can do so from age 25.

Etim, representing Offong/Oruko/Udung Uko Federal Constituency in Akwa Ibom State, explained that the current age restrictions hinder young Nigerians from advancing in politics. He argued that the 10-year gap between eligibility for the House and higher offices limits opportunities for young legislators who start their political careers early.

“A member of this House who starts at 25 and serves two terms will be 33, still ineligible for the Senate or governorship. This bill seeks to reduce the required age to 30 while keeping the five-year gap between the House and higher offices,” Etim said.

Following the debate, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas put the bill to a voice vote, and lawmakers overwhelmingly approved it for second reading.

The bill has now been referred to the House Committee on Constitution Review for further consideration.