Nigeria Was More Peaceful, Developed Faster Under Regional Govts —Anyaoku

Chief Emeka Anyaoku, former Commonwealth Secretary-General and Nigerian diplomat, has advocated a new democratic constitution for Nigeria to address the country’s pluralism.

Speaking at the 14th Emeka  Distinguished Lecture Series on Good Governance, Anyaoku explained that good governance is possible if only the constitution allows it.

“Nigeria was more peaceful and was developing faster in the first six years of our independence because it had a genuine federal constitution, which allowed the four regions to take care of their regional development, their social amenities, education, health, and internal security,” Emeka said.

The diplomat emphasized that countries that fail to address their pluralism risk disintegrating. He called for a radical restructuring of Nigeria’s system of governance, describing Nigeria “as a Country not a Nation” and adding that “it has remained a pluralistic country”.

Other speakers at the event, including Professor Ibrahim Gambari and General Ike Nwachukwu, echoed Anyaoku’s sentiments, calling for a restructuring of Nigeria’s federal arrangement and greater attention to constitutionalism.

Governor Peter Mbah also emphasized the importance of people-centered governance and investment in the youth.