Opinion
“The History and Evolution of Restructuring in Nigeria
By Anthony N. Z. Sani
The dynamics of community living are ever-changing, making periodic restructuring necessary. However, those advocating for restructuring Nigeria today cannot ignore the historical fact that the country has undergone multiple structural transformations—whether in its geopolitical configuration, form of government, or economic model.
Geopolitical Restructuring: From Regions to States
At independence in 1960, Nigeria operated a three-region structure—the Northern, Western, and Eastern regions. However, due to political tensions and demands for greater autonomy, the Mid-Western Region was created in 1963, making it four regions. Following the civil war (1967–1970) and General Yakubu Gowon’s efforts to prevent further ethnic strife, the country was restructured into 12 states in 1967. Successive military and civilian administrations continued this trend, increasing the number of states to 19 in 1976, 21 in 1987, 30 in 1991, and finally 36 states in 1996 under General Sani Abacha.
Thus, Nigeria’s geopolitical landscape has been restructured several times over the decades, debunking claims that the country remains in its colonial-era form.
Governmental System: From Parliamentary to Presidential
At independence, Nigeria operated a parliamentary system, modeled after the British Westminster system, where the Prime Minister (Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa) was the head of government, and the Governor-General (later President Nnamdi Azikiwe) was the ceremonial head of state. This system lasted until the first military coup on January 15, 1966, which led to General Aguiyi-Ironsi’s short-lived unitary government before his assassination in July 1966.
Nigeria returned to civil rule in 1979, adopting a presidential system under the Second Republic, with Shehu Shagari as the first executive president. This system was modeled after the U.S. system to promote a stronger central authority while balancing regional interests. Despite military interruptions (1983–1999), Nigeria has maintained this presidential system, showing another aspect of its restructuring efforts.
Economic Restructuring: From State Capitalism to Privatization
Economically, Nigeria initially pursued a mixed economy with heavy government involvement. In the 1970s, the Nationalization Policy led to the government’s control of key industries, including oil, banking, and steel. However, by the late 1980s, under General Ibrahim Babangida’s Structural Adjustment Program (SAP) (1986–1993), Nigeria shifted towards economic liberalization and privatization.
This continued under President Olusegun Obasanjo (1999–2007), who privatized key government assets, including NITEL, NEPA (now privatized into DISCOs and GENCOs), and refineries. This restructuring aimed to reduce government inefficiency and promote a market-driven economy.
In terms of policies,General Obasanjo had Low Profile and Operation Feed the nation,President Shagari had Austerity Measures and Green Revolution while President IBB had Structural Adjustment Programs.Still we have challenges associated with socioeconomic development.
The Real Challenge: National Ideals and Moral Values
Despite these restructuring efforts, Nigeria still faces challenges in nationhood, governance, and social cohesion. Some argue that the collapse of national ideals and moral values—such as the sanctity of life, accountability, and civic responsibility—poses a greater threat than structural issues.
A diverse country like Nigeria, with over 250 ethnic groups and more than 500 languages, needs a strong but balanced central government. The federal government should be strong enough to maintain unity but not so dominant as to stifle state-level autonomy.
Lessons from Other Countries
Critics who argue that the 1914 Amalgamation was a mistake should consider Ethiopia, a country that has never been colonized but still grapples with ethnic tensions despite its ethnic-based federalism. Meanwhile, Somalia, despite being ethnically homogenous, remains a failed state due to internal conflicts.
Similarly, Lebanon, where political power is shared based on religion—the President must be a Christian, the Prime Minister a Sunni Muslim, and the Speaker a Shia Muslim—still struggles with governance instability. These examples show that national unity and stability require more than just restructuring; they demand a national ethos built on shared values and trust.
Conclusion
Nigeria has been restructured multiple times—politically, economically, and administratively. However, the core issue remains not just restructuring the system but restructuring mindsets. True progress lies in fostering patriotism, accountability, and a national identity that transcends ethnic, religious, and regional divisions. Rather than seeking another round of restructuring, Nigeria must embark on a cultural renaissance that promotes unity, fairness, and a shared vision for development.”.
Anthony N Z Sani.
By Rinret Jennifer Mwarap
The unrelenting massacre of citizens in Plateau State has reached an alarming level. While the government claims to be taking steps to restore order, the reality on the ground tells a different story one that feels like nothing meaningful is being done.
It is heartbreaking to see our loved ones butchered without cause. The questions torment us: What have we done wrong? Who have we offended? Where did we go astray? Must we continue to endure this suffering for no justifiable reason?
The killing of innocent people in Plateau must come to an end. The government and security forces cannot afford to look away. Their responsibility is clear they must act swiftly and decisively to bring the perpetrators to justice, for the sake of the innocent victims and the children left behind.
I call on the Governor of Plateau State to rise to this challenge. Take bold and immediate action against those who seek to destroy our land and shed innocent blood. Let them face the full weight of the law.
This feels like a nightmare—how did we get to the point where the same Plateau where I once slept peacefully with both eyes closed is now a place where even sleeping with one eye open feels unsafe?
Where is the peace in our “Home of Peace and Tourism”?
When will our tears dry? When will justice prevail?
If we truly seek peace, then justice must be non-negotiable.
Ken Nnamani, a former president of the senate, says he did not beg Elisha Abbo, a former senator representing Adamawa north, on behalf of any judge after the ex-lawmaker lost his election case in court.
In October 2023, the court of appeal sacked Abbo and declared Amos Yohanna, candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as the winner of the Adamawa north senatorial election.
Appearing on Channels Television on Wednesday, Abbo said he was a victim of “miscarriage of justice”.
The former senator said Nnamani pleaded with him on behalf of a judge after he lost his election case in 2023.
Reacting in a statement, the former senate president described Abbo’s claim as “blatant lies”.
“My greatest surprise was to hear him state that Senator Ken Nnamani visited him to plead with him on behalf of a judge for the miscarriage of justice. This statement is a blatant lie. I do not know how Senator Abbo can boldly fabricate an event that never happened to buttress his allegation of judicial miscarriage against him,” he said.
“For the avoidance of doubt, I have never visited Senator Elisha Abbo at his house or anywhere. Up to this moment, I do not know where he lives. I have never discussed with him about his case, or any case pending or decided by any court of law in Nigeria.
“The only time I met with him was when he visited me in my house. It was more of a social visit by him. At this meeting, we never discussed his case or any case. I recall that when the matter of his political career came up, I advised him to avoid controversies as a young politician.
“The statements Senator Abbo made regarding me and his case are all fabrications. I believe I have had a sterling and distinguished public service career. I am determined to maintain my integrity and commitment to excellence till the end of my life.”
Heineken Lokpobiri, minister of state for petroleum resources, says the federal government plans to commence implementing the drill-or-drop provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
Section 94 of the PIA gives operators a period of three years to begin oil production or relinquish the assets to the federal government.
Speaking during the Cross Industry Group (CIG) meeting held on Tuesday in Florence, Italy, Lokpobiri said it is in the best interest of the country that all inactive wells go to work.
He said the federal government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, has provided every necessary incentive to ensure international oil companies (IOCs) in Nigeria run smoothly and profitably.
“Now, it is imperative for these industry players to match the government’s efforts with increased investment by announcing final investment decisions (FIDs),” he said.
Furthermore, Lokpobiri discussed “the challenges, expectations, and measures to enhance the sector’s contributions towards domestic energy needs and regional expansion across Sub-Saharan Africa”.
He emphasised that while IOCs have highlighted engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractors as a challenge, “EPCs will not come unless they see strong commitments from industry players”.
“The government has done its part to provide the requisite and investment-friendly fiscals, the ball is now in the court of the IOCs and other operators to make strategic investment decisions that will drive increased production and sustainability in the sector,” he said.
“We must also recognise that domestic crude supply is essential to national energy security. The best solution to this challenge lies in increasing production, which will ensure a balance between domestic supply obligations and external commitments.”
The minister further urged industry players to explore collaborative measures, such as shared resources for contiguous assets and the release of underutilised assets to operators ready to invest in production.