Oyo deputy governor urges review of Nigeria’s federal system
By Adejayan Gbenga –
The Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal, has called for a critical review of Nigeria’s federal structure, warning that the country may never attain development if states are not allowed to function properly.
Lawal made the remarks while serving as a lead panelist at the 2026 National Economic Council (NEC) Conference held at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja.
Speaking on the theme “Strengthening Inter-State Collaboration and Strategies in a Federal System,” Lawal argued that Nigeria’s governance practices contradict its claim of operating federalism.
According to him, the Federal Government currently holds excessive authority, creating structural constraints that limit state-level growth and innovation—constraints that should be addressed.
The deputy governor highlighted regional collaboration as a practical solution, pointing to the Western Nigeria Security Network, Amotekun, as evidence that inter-state cooperation can deliver measurable results, particularly in addressing security challenges.
Panelists at the event, including the Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari Ahmadu and the Deputy Governor of Delta State, Monday Onyeme, agreed that Nigeria needs a true federal structure to unlock its economic potential.
