The Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has reiterated the urgent need for restructuring, describing it as the only viable solution to Nigeria’s structural imbalances.
Speaking at the 2024 Oya Festival in Kwara State, Adams advocated for a return to regionalism, emphasizing the benefits of allowing regions to develop at their own pace. He criticized the centralized governance system, stating that excessive federal control has hindered national progress.
“Restructuring remains the only alternative for Nigeria to move forward. Let us adopt regionalism as a better option that would allow the federating units to develop at their own pace,” Adams said.
He highlighted Senegal and Gambia as examples of African countries benefiting from regional governance. Senegal, with its 14 regions and a population of 17 million, enjoys stable power, quality infrastructure, and effective security. Similarly, Gambia, with six regions and two million people, thrives on tourism and taxation, ensuring economic stability and security.
Adams lamented Nigeria’s ongoing struggles with insecurity, economic instability, and infrastructural decay despite its population of over 250 million. He called on the National Assembly and the Executive to prioritize a constitutional review, stressing that restructuring is critical to addressing the nation’s challenges.
