Dr Emeka Okereke, the Director-General of the Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ECCIMA), has called for the devolution of powers to states for effective development.
Commenting on Nigeria’s 55th Independence Anniversary in Enugu on Wednesday, Okereke told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the devolution of powers to states was long overdue.
“Let the states activate the resources in their areas. That is where people will make valued contributions to Nigeria as a nation.
“Because the centre is still very strong, the states and local governments are all looking up to the centre for everything and that is why we are not advancing the way we should.
“The president should surrender some aspects of the executive list like mining and mineral exploration to states and you will see a great change.’’
The economist also called for political restructuring, which he said, was also part of devolution of powers.
“Devolution of powers is part of political restructuring. Restructuring is very important.
“It does not mean to divide Nigeria but for us to cohabit with one another.
“We have not come out from the primordial Nigeria where tribalism, ethnicity and religion is the order of the day.’’
The director-general urged President Muhammadu Buhari to look at the reports of the National Conference and implement some key issues that would ensure peaceful co-existence. (NAN)
