Nigeria’s federal system isn’t inherently flawed, but rather suffers from poor resource management and a lack of accountability, according to Vice President Kashim Shettima. Speaking at the 7th edition of the Leadership Conference and Awards in Abuja, Shettima emphasized that the nation’s challenges lie not in its constitutional structure but in the failure to manage resources effectively at all levels of government.
Shettima’s remarks, delivered by his Special Adviser on General Duties, Dr. Aliyu Modibbo, were captured in a statement signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha. The Vice President pointed out that the issues often blamed on Nigeria’s federalism are, in fact, rooted in inefficient management of public resources rather than a problem with the country’s constitutional framework.
“To improve our federalism, we must address the dysfunctions allowed to fester under the current system,” Shettima said. He outlined key reforms needed at every level of government, emphasizing that if the federal government delivers on its promises, governors manage their allocations responsibly, and local governments achieve true autonomy with accountability, the system will work effectively.
In a candid address, Shettima stressed that Nigeria doesn’t need to replicate federal systems from countries like Canada or Switzerland. Instead, it requires a model tailored to Nigeria’s unique social, ethnic, and demographic makeup. “We must resist the temptation to idealize foreign systems or import solutions that don’t align with our realities,” he said. The Vice President’s call was for a federal system designed to reflect the country’s values, ensure accountability, and promote development at every level.
Shettima also commended the efforts of the current administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reform Nigeria’s federal structure. Notably, the push for local government autonomy and recent Supreme Court rulings on the matter were highlighted as key steps in this reform process.
“The Tinubu administration is taking bold steps to address these issues,” Shettima stated. He pointed to recent policy choices, such as the removal of the fuel subsidy and ongoing tax reforms, which are designed to improve fiscal responsibility and give states more room to grow economically.
In his conclusion, Shettima praised the Leadership Media Group for fostering national dialogue and recognizing individuals who embody the values Nigeria strives to institutionalize, including integrity, innovation, and impact. “Today’s honor is not just a celebration but also a call to duty,” he concluded, urging the awardees to continue making positive contributions to the country’s development.
This speech from Shettima underscores a critical moment in Nigeria’s political discourse—recognizing the need for reform while rejecting foreign models that fail to understand the country’s complexities. The Vice President’s message of self-reliance, accountability, and prudent resource management serves as a roadmap for the nation’s future growth and stability.
