Restructuring Nigeria: A Path to Embracing Diversity, Harnessing Resources, and Fostering Regional Development.

As Nigerians prepare for the “Days of Rage” protest, one of the key demands is the restructuring of the country to accommodate its diversity, resource control, decentralization, and regional development. This call to action is timely and crucial, as Nigeria’s current political and economic structure has failed to address the country’s socio-economic challenges.

Nigeria’s diversity is its strength, with over 250 ethnic groups and more than 500 languages spoken across the country. However, this diversity has been a source of tension and conflict, rather than a unifying force. A restructured Nigeria would recognize and celebrate this diversity, devolving power to regional governments and allowing for local decision-making.

Resource control is another critical aspect of restructuring. Nigeria’s wealth is concentrated in the hands of a few, while the majority of citizens live in poverty. Decentralizing resource control would enable regions to manage their natural resources, generating revenue and creating jobs.

This prompted the Niger Delta region in a long history of advocating for resource control, dating back to the 1966 movement led by a student leader, Major Gen. Isaac Adaka Boro (First Nigerian secessionist).
Boro’s efforts were aimed at securing greater autonomy and benefits for the region from its natural resources.

Following his death, various groups and individuals have continued to push for resource control, including the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), founded in the 1998 and the Ijaw National Congress (INC). The region’s demands for greater control over its resources have persisted, with some arguing that it would have been beneficial for the region’s development.

However, the Nigerian government has implemented measures to achieve a crisis free environment in the Niger Delta through which late president Umaru Musa Yar’dua’s led government decided to execute Amnesty for the people who were agitating for resources control and self determination, and the subsequent award of pipeline surveillance security contracts to address some of the region’s concerns but does not yet meeting their demands in the region.

The issue of resource control remains a prominent topic in discussions about Nigeria’s development and restructuring.

Decentralization is key to unlocking Nigeria’s potential. By transferring power from the federal government to regional authorities, decisions can be made closer to the people, and local needs can be addressed more effectively.

Regional development is also crucial. A restructured Nigeria would prioritize regional development, investing in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. This would reduce inequality and promote economic growth.

In conclusion, restructuring Nigeria is not a partisan issue, but a national imperative. It is time for Nigerians to come together and demand a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous future. The “Days of Rage” protest is an opportunity for citizens to voice their demands and push for meaningful change.

Let us seize this moment and work towards a Nigeria that truly belongs to all its people.