Key ethnic organizations, including Ohaneze Ndigbo, Afenifere, and the Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (ACF), have proposed regionalism and the adoption of a parliamentary system of government as solutions to Nigeria’s ongoing challenges.
These suggestions were presented under the framework of the Rebirth Group (TRG), and include the renaming of the country to the United Regions of Nigeria (URN), reflecting a restructuring that emphasizes regional autonomy.
The proposals were part of a communique issued after a symposium held in Kaduna titled “Envisioning Nigeria’s Future: Addressing the National Question.” The communique was co-signed by Comrade Jare Ajayi, Mr. Olaolu Abogunloko, and Mr. DIY Nweze, underscoring the need for a reorganization of the country into regions for more efficient governance and equitable distribution of resources.
Key Proposals from the Communique:
- Regional Autonomy: The regions should be granted more authority over their own affairs, with the central government handling only issues beyond the capacity of the federating units. The central government would be smaller and more efficient.
- Revenue Distribution: The communique proposed that 70% of the resources generated within a region should be retained by that region, with 30% allocated to the federal government. This system is designed to ensure that regions benefit more directly from their local resources.
- Regional Constitutions: Each region should have its own constitution and autonomy to operationalize self-determination. The restructuring should be aimed at fostering greater self-governance and local empowerment, while preserving the unity of the country.
- Renaming Nigeria: The communique suggested that the country be renamed to the United Regions of Nigeria (URN), or another suitable name, to reflect the new regional structure.
Additional Resolutions:
- Equality Among Regions: Each region is to have equal status and rank, promoting a sense of balance and fairness in the new structure.
- Healing National Wounds: The symposium emphasized the need for national reconciliation, proposing the establishment of a Truth, Justice, and Reconciliation Commission. Additionally, it advocated for giving constitutional roles to traditional rulers to contribute to healing and governance.
- Diversity and Unity: The event also highlighted the importance of fostering national unity amidst Nigeria’s diversity, calling for economic restructuring that ensures sustainable development for all regions.
Participating Organizations:
The symposium was attended by a wide range of organizations, including Ohaneze Ndigbo, Afenifere, the Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, and the Middle Belt Forum, among others. Other groups included the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation, Socio-Community Youth Association of Nigeria (SCOYAN), Yoruba Referendum, Yobe Community Residents in Kaduna, and various community and regional associations.
Conclusion:
The symposium, the second of its kind, marked a significant step towards addressing the country’s longstanding challenges through a restructuring that seeks to empower regions, promote self-determination, and ensure more effective governance. While acknowledging Nigeria’s diversity, the participants were united in their call for a restructuring that ensures equitable resource distribution and greater autonomy for the regions. This approach, they argue, would foster peace, stability, and sustainable development in the country.
