Nigeria’s unity is not negotiable, Tambuwal says; rejects restructuring

The Governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal, has urged aggrieved groups across Nigeria to adopt dialogue to resolve their differences.

Mr. Tambuwal said he believes “in the unity of the country and the unity of Nigeria is non-negotiable.”

“Dialogue is also the most potent tool to resolve all problems, anywhere and at anytime,” he said.

“There are really challenges in Nigeria, and it is not peculiar to the nation, and these challenges are surmountable.”

The former House of Representatives Speaker also called for urgent review of the revenue allocation formula, to favour states and local governments.

He made the call when he received various professional groups who paid him Sallah homage on Wednesday in Sokoto.

The groups included Sokoto Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture; Association of Resident Communities; Coalition of Non-Governmental Organizations, among others.

“The state and the local governments are the closest tiers of government to the people, unfortunately, they are getting less than the Federal Government from the Federation Account.

“The ugly trend should be reversed in favour of states and local governments to enable them meet the overwhelming demands of the grassroots,” the governor said.

Mr. Tambuwal rejected calls for the “geographical” restructuring of Nigeria, saying that instead, the country should focus on fiscal restructuring.

He promised to revive ailing industries in the state in partnership with the chamber, and adopt policies to bolster trade and commerce.

The governor told the group of non-indigenes living in the state that they are equal partners in running the affairs of the state.

He promised that the administration would not discriminate against anyone, irrespective of tribe or religion.

To the NGOs and other groups, Tambuwal urged them to offer constructive criticisms that would guide the government in meeting the challenges confronting the state.

The President of the Chamber, Kabiru Tafida, and Augustine Onumba, Chairman of the association of resident communities, hailed the governor for his steadfastness.