Former Minister of Information, John Nnia Nwodo, has stated that what Nigeria currently practices is not federalism but a unitary constitution disguised as federalism.
Nwodo called for a restructuring of Nigeria’s power structure to give regions greater autonomy over their resources and internal governance.
He issued a stern warning about Nigeria’s political future, saying the country could face breakup before the 2027 general elections if constitutional reforms are not implemented.
Speaking at the launch of two books authored by veteran journalist, Ike Abonyi, in Abuja, Nwodo said,
He said, “What we practice today is not federalism but a unitary constitution in disguise.
“Let each region manage its resources and development, while contributing taxes to fund essential federal responsibilities like external defence, foreign affairs, customs, and immigration.
“If we head into 2027 without addressing these structural imbalances, there may be no election, and worse still, no country.”
Highlighting the country’s deteriorating economic situation, Nwodo pointed to poor infrastructure, youth unemployment and low life expectancy as signs of systemic failure.
“We are bleeding billions annually due to poor infrastructure. Life expectancy is now one of the lowest globally. Our youth are unemployed and frustrated. Something must give,” he said.
Nwodo advocated for bold reforms in education, digital skills development and agriculture to tackle unemployment and revive the economy.
“The future lies in education that meets today’s realities. Every Nigerian child should be digitally literate. We must return to agriculture and vocational training,” he stressed.
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