Nigeria’s federal system is not the problem, VP Shettima insists

Vice President Kashim Shettima has emphasised the need for fiscal responsibility in Nigeria’s federal system, stating that the country’s challenges stem from poor management of resources rather than the federalism structure itself.

He made this remark on Tuesday in Abuja while delivering the keynote address at the 17th edition of Leadership Annual Conference and Awards.

Shettima, represented by Special Adviser to the President on General Duties, Office of the Vice President, Moddibo Umar, highlighted the importance of judicious resource utilisation, saying, “The issue is not merely how much each federating unit approves, but how judiciously such resources are utilised.”

He commended the recent Supreme Court judgement in favour of local government autonomy, underscoring President Bola Tinubu administration’s commitment to building a federal structure that works for the grassroots.

The Vice President urged caution against romanticising foreign systems or prescribing solutions that fail to account for Nigeria’s unique social, ethnic, and demographic complexities.

He cited examples from Canada, Germany, and Spain to illustrate that every federation evolves and reforms to suit its distinct realities.

Earlier, Chairman of Leadership Group, Zainab Nda-Isaiah, said the conference is an opportunity to reflect on the current state of the country and shape the future, adding that awards should inspire, not just recognise.

The conference, with the theme “Opportunities in Nigeria’s Fiscal Federalism,” aims to rethink the country’s federal system and celebrate excellence in service and leadership.

The ceremony also witnessed the presentation of awards to the President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, alongside six serving Governors and 19 other Nigerians who have distinguished themselves in their various fields of endeavours.

(Editor: Terverr Tyav)