Nigeria, a diverse and culturally rich nation, has faced numerous challenges in managing its vast and varied population under the current centralised system. As discussions on restructuring the country continue, one proposal gaining attention is the establishment of regional governments. This approach offers a compelling alternative to the drastic measure of breaking the country into separate nations.

What is the Proposal About?

The idea, presented by Akin Fapohunda from the Yoruba socio-cultural association Afenifere, suggests a return to Nigeria’s previous regional system of government. The proposal, known as “A Bill for an Act to Establish the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria New Governance Model for Nigeria Act 2024,” aims to replace parts of the current constitution with a new governance model. Here’s a breakdown of what this means and why it matters.

Key Features of the Proposed Regional Government Structure

1. Creation of Geopolitical Regions:

• The proposal divides Nigeria into eight geopolitical regions with provincial boundaries.

• Each region will have its own executive and legislative bodies, led by a Premier.

2. Transformation of States into Provinces:

• The current states (like the six in the Western region) will become provinces.

• These provinces will be governed by Provincial Councils, which will have both executive and legislative functions, led by a Chairman and supported by specialised Administrative Officers.

3. Restructuring Local Government Areas:

• Local Government Areas will be restructured into divisions, each overseen by divisional managers and specialist administrative officers.

• Divisions will focus on socio-economic development, ensuring they are viable and self-sustaining.

4. Regional Autonomy:

• Regions will have the freedom to create, merge, or reconfigure their administrative units according to their needs without interference from any other authority.

• This allows for greater flexibility and responsiveness to local conditions and needs.

5. Cost Reduction and Efficiency:

• The restructuring aims to decrease the cost of public and civil service administration to below 20-30% of revenue generated.

• Resources freed from reduced administrative costs can be redirected towards development.

6. Decentralised Federal Power:

• The proposal advocates for a decentralised federal system with not more than 10 regions, instead of the current 36 states.

• This streamlined approach is expected to be more manageable and effective.

7. Parliamentary System of Government:

• A return to a parliamentary system of government with built-in statutory rotation of leadership among the regions.

• This system promotes inclusivity and ensures that all regions have a chance to participate in federal leadership.

8. Slimmed-Down Federal Government:

• The federal government would consist of no more than nine ministries, drawing inspiration from the United States, which has 15 cabinet ministers for a much larger population.

Why This Matters

Promoting Unity Without Fragmentation

Establishing regional governments addresses the desire for greater autonomy and self-determination among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and cultural groups. By allowing regions to govern themselves while remaining part of a united Nigeria, the proposal seeks to balance local autonomy with national unity.

Enhancing Efficiency and Reducing Costs

A more streamlined governance structure with fewer, more manageable administrative units can significantly reduce bureaucratic overhead. This means more resources can be allocated to development projects, improving infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other critical services.

Ensuring Localised Decision-Making

Regions will have the flexibility to address their unique challenges and leverage their strengths. This localised decision-making can lead to more effective governance, as policies and initiatives can be tailored to each region’s specific needs.

Maintaining National Integrity

Rather than fragmenting the country into smaller, potentially weaker nations, the regional government model keeps Nigeria united. It preserves the benefits of a larger nation, such as economic scale, shared resources, and collective security, while addressing regional disparities and aspirations.

Building a More Inclusive Political System

The proposal aims to foster a more inclusive political environment by rotating leadership among regions and adopting a parliamentary system. This can help reduce political tensions and ensure that all regions feel represented at the national level.

Call to Action

As Nigeria stands at a crossroads, establishing regional governments presents a viable path to enhance governance, promote unity, and drive development. It’s time for stakeholders nationwide to engage in meaningful dialogue and consider this proposal a balanced approach to addressing the country’s complex challenges.

Join the conversation today and let’s work together to build a stronger, more united Nigeria. Share your thoughts and ideas on how we can make this vision a reality.

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