Former Nigerian Bar Association President, Dr. Olisa Agbakoba SAN, has called for a complete restructuring of Nigeria’s federal system. He insists the current centralized structure fosters poor governance and inequality across states.
“Piecemeal Amendments Won’t Fix Nigeria”
Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos, Agbakoba urged lawmakers to ditch slow constitutional amendments. He advocated for a brand-new constitution driven by citizens and inclusive debate.
He said Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution lacks legitimacy as the military imposed it without public consent.
Three Restructuring Models for True Federalism
Agbakoba proposed three restructuring models:
- Model 1: Use Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones as federating units. Each zone may create internal states and councils.
- Model 2: Retain the current 36 states but ensure fair resource sharing and legal equality among them.
- Model 3: Combine both zones and states as co-equal federating units in a two-tier federal system.
He emphasized the need to grant special status to key cities and minority protections in both state and zonal administrations.
Devolution of Power Is Key
Agbakoba recommended a massive devolution of powers from the federal government to states. He explained two paths:
Technical devolution should move responsibilities like licensing, prisons, marriage certificates, and primary education to states.
Political devolution should introduce cooperative policing models between federal and state authorities.
He also urged strong local government empowerment based on subsidiarity principles to make governance more grassroots-driven.
Strengthen Democratic Institutions
Agbakoba advocated for stronger institutions, inspired by South Africa’s Chapter 9 constitutional framework. He listed INEC, EFCC, ICPC, NJC, and the Police as critical pillars of democracy that must be protected.
Commends Tinubu’s Economic and Local Government Reforms
Agbakoba praised President Tinubu’s bold reforms, especially the enforcement of local government financial autonomy under Section 7 of the Constitution.
He also acknowledged gains from fuel subsidy removal, exchange rate unification, and tax reforms. He hailed the launch of CREDICORP, which boosts access to consumer credit.
Naira Gains Value Amid Rising Investor Confidence
According to him, these reforms have stabilized the economy. The naira has appreciated over 7% since November 2023. Local bond yields have climbed to 25%, reflecting renewed investor confidence.
Dr. Agbakoba’s recommendations offer a roadmap for national renewal. A new constitution, fairer federalism, and strong democratic institutions could reshape Nigeria’s future. Citizens, lawmakers, and civil society must now join the conversation to drive lasting change.“These initiatives have contributed to moderating inflation and a strengthening naira. Investors’ confidence has increased, with the naira appreciating by over 7% against the dollar since November 2023, supported by yields of up to 25% on local bonds,” he said.
