By Chief ( Dr) A.K Osawota
One of the most critical debates in Nigeria’s economic and political
discourse has been the issue of decentralization and the establishment of regional governments along the country’s six
geopolitical zones.
This concept of regional governance seeks to
address the disparities and imbalances that exist between the country’s regions, aiming to create a system that is more reflective of local needs, resources, and the socio-political realities on the ground.
The idea of a people-based regional constitution, which emphasizes
derivation and production quantum, is central to this regionalization
movement.
The Need for Regional Governments Nigeria, as a federal republic, has long faced the challenge of
balancing the diverse interests and concerns of its various regions.
Historically, the country’s political and economic systems have been
heavily centralized, with power concentrated in the federal government.
While this centralization has allowed for the coordination of national policies and unity, it has also led to regional inequalities.
The underdevelopment of the northern and southeastern parts of the
country, coupled with the over-concentration of resources in the
south-south and southwestern regions, has created tension and a
sense of marginalization among the Nigerian populace.
The failure of previous attempts to properly balance regional
development has led to calls for the establishment of regional
governments that operate along the lines of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones
zones: the North-East, North-West, North-Central, South-East,
South-West, and South-South. These zones, which are distinct in terms of culture, resources, and historical development, would be empowered to govern themselves to a certain extent while remaining part of the national federation.
The aim is not to promote secession,but rather to grant the regions more autonomy to cater to the unique needs and aspirations of their people.
Proponents of regional governments argue that decentralization is
necessary to promote balanced development across the country,
reduce inter-ethnic tensions, and create a more equitable system that
responds to the needs of local populations. Central to this argument is the idea of local control over resources, with each region having a say in how their wealth—particularly derived from natural resources
such as oil, minerals, and agriculture—is managed and distributed.
Derivation and Production Quantum: Key Principles for Regional Autonomy
A people-based regional constitution that emphasizes derivation and
production quantum is critical to the success of this decentralization
agenda. Derivation refers to the principle of returning a percentage of the revenues generated from natural resources to the regions where those resources are produced.
This principle has been enshrined in Nigeria’s legal framework, particularly with regard to oil revenues,
where the Niger Delta has been the principal source of the country’s Oil wealth .
Under the current system, oil-producing regions receive a portion of
the revenue generated from oil, but many argue that the percentage allocated is insufficient compared to the environmental and social costs borne by these regions.
The exploitation of natural resources, particularly oil, has led to environmental degradation, displacement,
and loss of livelihoods in many resource-rich areas. As such,proponents of regionalization argue that a higher percentage of
revenues should be allocated to the regions that produce these
resources. This would allow these regions to reinvest in their communities, address the damage caused by resource extraction, and stimulate economic growth.
Production quantum refers to the share of resources or wealth produced by each region based on its capacity to generate economic value through its industries, agriculture, and other local enterprises.
This principle is essential in ensuring that regions are not entirely dependent on central government allocations but can also thrive on their own resources and productivity. A people-based constitution should allow each region to retain and manage a significant portion of the wealth generated within its boundaries, creating incentives for local economic development.
The application of both derivation and production quantum can be seen as a way to empower regions to take ownership of their
economic destinies.
By ensuring that regions have a fair share of the
wealth they generate, regional governments would have the autonomy and resources to develop their infrastructure, improve social services and provide for their people without relying heavily
on federal allocations.
The Case for Regional Governments: A Comparative Look
at Other Federal Systems
Nigeria is not alone in grappling with the challenges of
decentralization and regional governance. Many federal countries around the world have adopted systems of regional autonomy that allow local governments to manage their affairs while still being part of a unified nation. In countries like Germany, India, and the United
States, regional governments are given considerable powers over
local matters, including resource management, education, and healthcare. These systems have been successful in creating more
balanced development and reducing regional disparities.
In Germany, for example, the Länder (regions) have considerable control over their economies and are responsible for the welfare of their citizens.
Similarly, in India, the federal system allows for
significant decentralization of power, which has led to a more responsive government in each state. Both of these countries have embraced regionalization not as a means of dividing the nation, but as a way to ensure that local governments are more attuned to the needs of their people.
In the United States, the principle of federalism has allowed for the
development of strong regional economies. States such as California,
Texas, and New York have leveraged their resources and industries to become economic powerhouses, while also contributing to the national economy. The success of this model is often attributed to the
autonomy that states have in managing their resources and making
decisions that are in the best interest of their residents.
Conclusion: The Path Forward for Nigeria
The idea of establishing regional governments in Nigeria, supported
by a people-based constitution centered on derivation and production
quantum, offers a promising path toward achieving balanced
development and greater autonomy for local populations.
By empowering the six geopolitical zones to manage their resources and govern themselves, Nigeria could begin to address long-standing
regional disparities and create a more equitable society.
However, the successful implementation of regionalization will require
overcoming significant challenges, including political resistance,
ethnic divisions, and capacity constraints. It will also require a deep
commitment to reform from both the federal and regional governments, as well as the support of the Nigerian people.
If implemented effectively, regional governments could be a vital tool
in the transformation of Nigeria’s political and economic landscape,
ensuring that all regions can thrive and contribute to the nation’s prosperity.
Further, the future of Nigeria hinges on the ability of its political system to evolve beyond its current state.
To survive and thrive,
Nigeria must create a new social contract—one that is built on the principles of justice, equality, and accountability. This will require a fundamental shift in governance, away from a top-down, elite-driven
model, toward a more decentralized, people-driven system.
By focusing on the needs of the people, addressing ethnic and regional tensions, and ensuring that resources are equitably
distributed, Nigeria can begin to chart a course toward stability and
prosperity. Whether or not the nation can survive in its current form depends on its willingness to embrace change and build a system that truly reflects the will and aspirations of its people.
