By Prof Mondy Gold

Today marks a pivotal moment in our nation’s history. The amalgamation of Northern and Southern Nigeria in 1914 was more than a simple merging of territories; it embodied a shared destiny and a commitment to unity amidst our rich diversity. However, as we reflect on our journey since independence, it is evident that we face profound challenges threatening our national fabric. These issues demand immediate attention to address the dilapidated and fractured framework of Nigeria.

From the colonial era to our independence struggle, and through the complexities of our present reality, Nigeria has grappled with fundamental issues of governance, resource management, self-determination, and national unity. The specter of disintegration persists, fueled by centralized power structures that have hindered regional autonomy and deepened divisions.

Today, we gather not only to acknowledge our struggles but to confront them with courage and determination. It is time to envision a new Nigeria—a Nigeria where every region thrives, where diversity is cherished, and where unity is not just a distant hope but a concrete reality. The urgent call for comprehensive restructuring resonates more strongly than ever—a call to dismantle outdated paradigms, empower our states, harness the full potential of the Nigerian Diaspora, and embrace genuine federalism that respects the aspirations of every Nigerian.

Drawing strength from the resilience of our people, we must commit to building a prosperous, just, and peaceful nation. The time for decisive action is now. Together, we can chart a transformative course for Nigeria by adopting the British-recommended derivation formula, implementing a new economic model and national framework, enhancing security, decentralizing road maintenance, and transitioning to a unicameral national assembly with regional checks and balances. By learning from the amalgamation of Northern and Southern Nigeria, the 12-Day Revolution led by Major Isaac Adaka Boro, and the implementation of Sharia Law in the Northern States, we can understand the imperativeness of a loose federation and revitalized federalism. Redrawing political boundaries and ensuring resource control by the 36 states will pave the path to peace and unity, allowing Nigeria’s potential to shine brighter than ever before.

1) Our nation’s history was shaped by the union between Northern and Southern Nigeria in January 1914. The union of Northern and Southern Nigeria is our foundation, our legacy, and our greatest source of strength as we strive to build a brighter future for generations to come. In the aftermath of this amalgamation overseen by Lord Frederick Lugard during British colonial rule, and even after Nigeria’s independence on October 1, 1960, we have been confronted with an enduring specter of disintegration. This persistent threat stems not from the union itself, but from the failure to address fundamental issues that have plagued our nation. The pursuit of self-interest in oil and natural gas resources has sown seeds of division, while a dearth of visionary leadership has allowed these divisions to fester. The result is a landscape marked by misunderstandings and a dire lack of political will.

2) At the dawn of independence, the promise of Nigeria’s first republic lay in its embrace of robust regional governance—a model that nurtured the growth and prosperity of its diverse regions. However, the advent of the Fourth Republic heralded a seismic shift in this delicate balance, as power gravitated inexorably towards the center. Critical areas of governance—policing, state creation, political parties, and the management of natural resources—were consolidated under federal jurisdiction. This centralization, while perhaps intended to streamline governance, has instead amplified Nigeria’s inherent structural challenges to a deafening crescendo.

3) The consequences are stark and undeniable: rampant mismanagement, pervasive marginalization, and a chronic state of underperformance. The very fabric of our nation is strained under the weight of this centralization, stifling the potential of our people and impeding our collective progress.

As we navigate the complexities of our present reality, we must confront this truth with unwavering resolve. The path to a brighter future demands a return to the principles of equitable regional governance, where power is decentralized, and communities are empowered to chart their own destinies. It is time to reclaim the spirit of our first republic and forge a path forward that honors the diversity and resilience of our nation.

4) Constitutional Framework and the Concept of Restructuring: Over the years, the concept of restructuring has been interpreted and approached from various perspectives. To clarify, restructuring is not solely about altering state or regional boundaries, nor is it about transferring powers to the states. True restructuring goes beyond minor constitutional adjustments; it calls for a comprehensive constitutional transformation and cultural revolution. It involves challenging and changing the authoritarian political system inherited from military and colonial rulers. The current administrative, financial, geographical, economic, and political structures are inadequate, leading to weak economic management. This deficiency prevents the federal, state, and local governments from functioning at their highest potential. It is obvious that the existing system fails to meet the needs of the populace both locally and globally.

Nigeria has been operating under a flawed system of federalism. Nigeria’s current federal structure is overly complex and centralized, leading to an excessive concentration of responsibilities and the unwarranted confiscation of significant resources, especially from the Niger Delta. This system has largely overlooked environmental sustainability and developmental priorities. As a result, millions of Nigerians are demanding restructuring, a call that is strongly supported by the Nigerian Diaspora, who recognize the urgent need for these reforms.

The demand for restructuring is not an isolated phenomenon confined to Nigeria; it is a global trend among federal states seeking to remain relevant and effective. Nations like South Sudan, which restructured its governance framework in 2011 following a protracted conflict and a historic referendum, exemplify this movement. Similarly, countries such as India, Pakistan, Canada, and the United Kingdom are actively exploring political restructuring to address their evolving needs.

We need a restructured Nigeria that creates opportunities for all citizens and demands that every level of government demonstrates the ability to generate wealth, manage resources, and create jobs. It involves transforming the federal, state, and local governments to enhance efficiency in territorial management, resource allocation, and economic development. Nigeria requires a comprehensive restructuring to foster inclusive participation and embrace the diverse ethnic groups.

5) Federalism that is Profoundly Misleading: Federalism is predicated on the constitutional distribution of powers between multiple tiers of government. In Nigeria, our current claim to being a federation is not only laughable but also profoundly misleading; it necessitates an urgent and thorough overhaul. The 1999 Constitution bears significant responsibility for the myriad issues plaguing Nigeria today. Despite proclaiming Nigeria as a federal, multi-ethnic, and multi-religious state, the reality is that Nigeria functions more like a unitary state, marred by deep-seated ethnic and religious intolerance.

6) Impediment to True Federalism in Nigeria: The 1999 Constitution has failed to create a true federal system, centralizing power in a way that undermines the autonomy of regional governments. This concentration of power exacerbates tensions and hampers effective governance, as local issues are often inadequately addressed by a distant central authority. The promise of federalism—to balance power and accommodate diversity—remains unfulfilled, leaving Nigeria struggling with mismanagement, marginalization, and conflict. Furthermore, the 1999 Constitution has fostered poor leadership and rampant corruption while stifling development across the states. In a truly federal system, provinces or states would have the constitutional authority to control resources derived from their own territories. However, under the current framework, this is not the case in Nigeria, leading to a centralized grip on resources that hampers regional progress and innovation. Consequently, social justice, environmental justice, and robust economic democracy remain elusive.

7) Sharia law Lessons Learned: A genuine federal constitution would empower states with greater autonomy, allowing them to harness their resources effectively and tailor development strategies to their unique needs. Nigerian federalism, in its ideal form, would mitigate ethnic and religious conflicts by granting states the autonomy to govern themselves within the overarching federal structure. For example, the adoption of Sharia law in eleven Northern states demonstrates how localized governance can coexist within a federal system, catering to the specific cultural and religious contexts of different regions.

8) Paving Nigeria’s Path to Peace and Progress: Nigeria’s foundational challenges loom large, casting a shadow over prospects for genuine peace and progress. To chart a new course, restructuring the Nigerian state stands as a critical imperative. This can be pursued through various models, but we emphasize two specific approaches: 1) Confederation Model: Inspired by Switzerland, this model empowers federating units with substantial authority, surpassing that of the central government. It prioritizes local governance while coordinating on broader national issues. 2) Federation Model: Modeled after Germany and Canada, this balanced approach distributes power equitably between individual units and the central government. It maintains a cohesive national identity while respecting regional diversity and autonomy. Between these models, we advocate unequivocally for a federation. This framework not only ensures a fair distribution of powers but also promotes collaboration and solidarity among Nigeria’s diverse regions. By bolstering state autonomy within a unified national framework, a federal system can effectively address local needs while advancing the collective interests of the entire nation. This approach holds immense potential to unleash Nigeria’s full capabilities, fostering sustainable development and prosperity for all its people.

9) Decentralization and Devolution: In Nigeria, the urgency for decentralization and devolution of powers cannot be overstated. We must embark on a thorough overhaul of our current system, starting with a new constitution that reflects the true federal nature of our nation. To truly address Nigeria’s challenges, a profound restructuring into a federation is imperative. This transformation would empower each region to manage its resources and progress independently, marking a decisive step towards decentralization. Such decentralization is pivotal in eliminating marginalization perpetuated by centralized governance, fostering a genuine federal system. Nigeria’s current struggles underscore a crucial point: federalism alone cannot resolve conflicts without authentic democracy and a reduction in centralism. Therefore, embracing a federation is not merely a structural change but a strategic move towards inclusive governance, where each region can flourish according to its unique strengths and aspirations. This path offers Nigeria a blueprint for unity through diversity, unlocking opportunities for equitable development and national cohesion. 

10) Decentralize Road Maintenance for a Stronger, More Resilient Infrastructure: The outdated notion of federal roads in our towns and cities is a glaring testament to the inefficiencies plaguing our current governance. Nowhere is this more evident than in the disgraceful condition of the East-West Road in the Niger Delta, which has suffered neglect for decades. This heavy-handed, centralized approach breeds bureaucratic red tape and stifles effective infrastructure development and maintenance. We must break free from these chains and devolve road maintenance to the states or local governments. Such a move would unleash the power of local authorities to make swift, precise interventions, resulting in superior infrastructure and enhanced service delivery. Embracing localized management will lead to quicker, more efficient responses to each community’s unique needs, ultimately forging a stronger, more resilient road network across the nation. The time for change is now, and with it comes the promise of a better future for all. 

11) Demilitarization Strategy: Moreover, the comprehensive restructuring Nigeria must include demilitarization strategy to ensure civilian oversight and accountability in security matters. A reimagined national security framework is essential to address the diverse and complex security challenges we face. Alongside this, a new economic model tailored to promote sustainable development and equitable growth across all regions is imperative.

12) Redrawing the Political Boundaries: In the last century, Nigeria’s unity and development have been impeded by cultural, political, and geographical complexities. To achieve a more equitable and functional Nigeria, we must embark on a significant transformation. First, we need to dissolve the current 36 states, relics of military decrees that have outlived their usefulness. The existing borders, tangled with cultural, religious, clan, ethnic, and geographical considerations, have only intensified our challenges. Moving away from the traditional politics of territorial restructuring, we should focus on crafting new political boundaries that genuinely reflect the aspirations and needs of our people. Rather than following natural features like creeks and rivers, we should draw straight lines, uniting the country into seven distinct geopolitical zones that include both local populations and the Nigerian Diaspora. This approach promises a more cohesive and inclusive national framework. 

Redrawing Nigeria’s 36 states into a geometric grid—6 rows by 6 columns, with each box representing a state—can simplify and uniform these boundaries. This approach transcends traditional impediments, focusing on creating a straightforward and recognizable map. By connecting central points with straight lines, we form a grid that represents states with clear, horizontal and vertical boundaries. This proposal goes beyond mere cartographic exercise. It aims to minimize the undue influence of traditional institutions on political stability, fostering a sustainable framework for accommodating diversity and managing conflicts. Simplifying boundaries into geometric shapes will balance regional imbalances, promoting economic development and political stability. To ensure Nigeria’s progress, we must embrace this innovative approach. By redrawing our state boundaries, we pave the way for a more unified, stable, and prosperous nation.

13) Revitalizing Nigeria through Resource Control: By decentralizing power and ensuring that states have control over their resources, Nigeria can address the root causes of its pervasive issues. This shift would promote accountability, as local leaders would be directly responsible to their constituents for resource management and development. By embracing genuine federalism grounded in democratic principles, Nigeria can navigate its challenges and chart a course towards sustainable progress and prosperity for all its people. Only through such a fundamental restructuring can Nigeria hope to curb corruption, enhance leadership quality, and foster sustainable development across its diverse regions.

14) Change the for Formula of Derivation: Consider the evolution of resource control in Nigeria: In 1946, regions enjoyed a derivation formula of 100%, fully managing their resources. By 1951, the British suggested a 50% derivation, and in 1953, the Western Region reaffirmed this by disbursing 100% of its controlled resources. This 50% benchmark persisted from independence in 1960 until 1970, when General Yakubu Gowon reduced it to 45%, and by 1975, it had further dropped to 25%. Under General Buhari’s first administration, it plummeted to 1.5%, only to be modestly raised to 3% by General Babangida, eventually settling at 13%. It is imperative that Nigerians recognize the necessity of adopting at least the British-recommended 50% derivation formula. Embracing this model is crucial for fostering national peace and stability, aligning us with practices in developed nations and ensuring a fairer distribution of resources that can catalyze economic growth and development across all regions.

15) Stop Over-Reliance on Federal Allocations:  Furthermore, the heavy dependence on federal allocations as the main financial lifeline for states is not only unsustainable but also a significant barrier to economic growth. To unlock the true potential of our nation, we must transition to a more self-sufficient model. By encouraging states to generate their own revenue through productive activities and robust tax collection, we will create a vibrant and competitive economic environment. This shift will compel governors, previously cushioned by federal funds, to adopt greater financial prudence and accountability. Embracing local economic initiatives and reducing dependence on central funding will ignite growth and innovation across all regions, setting the stage for a more prosperous and dynamic Nigeria.

16) Transition to a Unicameral National Assembly: Transitioning Nigeria to a unicameral National Assembly alongside regional assemblies for checks and balances can significantly enhance governance efficiency and responsiveness. Countries like Denmark and New Zealand illustrate the effectiveness of unicameral systems in fostering quicker decision-making and direct accountability to the electorate. Costa Rica further exemplifies streamlined legislative processes and consensus-building in a unicameral setup. Adopting a unicameral structure at the national level, complemented by regional assemblies, promises to streamline legislative procedures and strengthen democratic governance in Nigeria. This approach could lead to more effective representation and decision-making, ultimately advancing the country towards greater efficiency and responsiveness in its governance framework.

17) The Twelve-day Revolution: It is a well-documented fact that the roots of statism in Nigeria trace back to the Ijaw Nation. As an Ijaw man deeply committed to the aspirations of our founding fathers and the challenges that ignited the 12-Day Revolution, and as Chairman of NADECO in the US, I firmly believe that without restructuring, Nigeria’s dream of enduring stability, unity, and progress—the beacon of hope for the entire Black race—will remain tantalizingly out of reach. Now is the time for bold and unwavering leadership. Now is the time to rewrite our destiny and secure a future where every Nigerian can thrive. 

18) The President: Champion of True Federalism: The President of Nigeria, as a founding member of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), recognizes that true federalism is not merely a buzzword but the vital lifeline our nation desperately needs. Only through a comprehensively articulated and bold restructuring can we guarantee a harmonious and equitable distribution of power. This restructuring must empower the central government to handle national affairs effectively while granting regions the crucial autonomy to govern their own resources, including coal, oil, and natural gas. Such a transformative approach is an essential equilibrium for fostering sustainable development, regional stability, and national unity. We implore the President of Nigeria, Chief Bola Ahmed Adekunle Tinubu GCFR, not to falter in this defining moment, for the soul of our nation hangs in the balance.

19) Position of the Nigerian Diaspora:  It is obvious that the existing system fails to meet the needs of the populace both locally and globally. The Nigerian Diaspora is ready to provide the necessary momentum and direction to drive the restructuring process in a manner that benefits all citizens. We are prepared to collaborate with the presidency, judiciary, National Assembly, and other stakeholders to establish a genuine and transparent federal system with a new constitution. It is time to transcend partisan politics and unite behind a shared vision of progress and prosperity for all Nigerians.

Conclusion: Comprehensive restructuring is not just a choice; it is imperative to empower our states, celebrate our diversity, and nurture genuine unity. The entire Black race looks to Nigeria with hope, and now more than ever, we must muster the courage and determination to confront our challenges head-on. Additionally, the Nigerian Diaspora passionately demands immediate and comprehensive restructuring, standing poised to contribute to this long-overdue endeavor that cannot wait any longer. 

Let us boldly rewrite our constitutional framework to embrace true federalism, ensuring equitable governance, sustainable development, a just derivation formula, and the uninterrupted control of our abundant resources. As we embark on this transformative journey, let us draw strength from our shared history and the indomitable spirit of our people. 

To transcend the looming threat of disintegration, we must confront our challenges with unwavering courage and determination. We urge the President to embody focus, courage, and decisiveness, harnessing his unique position to propel Nigeria towards becoming the beacon of Africa.

Thank you.

Professor (Amb.) Mondy Gold, FCILG, President of the Ijaw Diaspora Council, Coordinator of the African Diaspora for Good Governance, and Chairman of the National Democratic Coalition in the US. Recipient of the United States Lifetime Achievement and Nigeria Peace Ambassador Awards