Prominent ethnic groups in Nigeria, including Afenifere, Ohaneze Ndigbo, and the Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (ACF), have jointly called for a restructuring of the nation’s governance model. The groups advocated for a return to regionalism and a parliamentary system, proposing that Nigeria be renamed the “United Regions of Nigeria (URN).” The resolution emerged from a symposium in Kaduna titled “Envisioning Nigeria’s Future: Addressing the National Question.” Organised by the Rebirth Group (TRG), the event featured discussions on the nation’s current state and ways to address its structural and socio-economic challenges.
In a communique issued at the event, the ethnic groups proposed reorganising Nigeria into autonomous regions. These regions would have greater control over their affairs, leaving the central government to focus solely on issues beyond the capacity of individual regions. The recommendation also called for reducing the size and scope of the federal government to enhance efficiency. Participants emphasised that the centralised system has stifled development and promoted dependency, leaving many states financially unstable. By decentralising governance, regions could better harness their resources and promote healthy competition, reminiscent of the successes of regionalism during Nigeria’s First Republic.
Autonomous regions are proposed for fair resource control.
The proposed structure includes granting regions the authority to draft constitutions and manage resources within their territories. The communique suggested a revenue-sharing formula where 70 percent of proceeds from resources would remain within the region of origin, while 30 percent would be allocated to the central government. This system addresses long-standing grievances about marginalisation, resource control, and the imbalance in power distribution. Participants emphasised the need for equal status among regions to promote unity and equity.
Another significant proposal was to rename the country the “United Regions of Nigeria” or a similar designation reflecting the restructured governance framework. The intent is to symbolise a fresh start and a unified national identity while respecting the autonomy of each region. Speakers at the symposium stressed that this change is not intended to dissolve existing states but to reposition them as federating units within the new regional framework. This approach aims to enhance local governance and self-determination without eroding administrative boundaries.
Reconciliation and the importance of traditional governance.
To address the historical grievances and divisions within the country, the groups called for establishing a Truth, Justice, and Reconciliation Commission. They also advocated for constitutional roles for traditional rulers, recognising their importance in grassroots governance and conflict resolution. The symposium, chaired by Dr. Bitrus Pogu and attended by various cultural, socio-political, and community organisations, concluded that returning to regionalism is vital to the nation’s progress. Participants urged immediate action to implement these reforms, emphasising their necessity for achieving sustainable development, unity, and peace.
Nigeria’s centralised political system has been criticised for promoting inefficiency, economic stagnation, and regional inequality. While the federal structure was intended to manage the country’s diversity, it increased tensions and conflicts. Calls for restructuring have grown louder, with proponents arguing that decentralisation would empower regions to thrive based on their unique strengths and resources. By shifting to regionalism, Nigeria could restore the dynamism that once characterised its governance during the First Republic. Advocates argue that this change is necessary to ensure equitable development and build a stronger, more cohesive nation.
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On the other hand, the push for restructuring reflects a widespread desire for a more functional and inclusive governance system. While achieving this vision will require overcoming significant political and logistical challenges, it offers a pathway toward a united and prosperous Nigeria. The symposium’s resolutions provide a framework for addressing the nation’s pressing issues, from resource allocation to political marginalisation. As the country navigates its future, these proposals underscore the need for collective action and visionary leadership to reshape the nation’s destiny.