Nigeria's federalism: Partnership between Centre and States is key for development

Nigeria's federal structure, now 27 years into uninterrupted democracy, remains the nation's most effective mechanism for managing its diversity and fostering development. However, its success hinges on a collaborative partnership between the central government in Abuja and the sub-national entities, rather than a competitive or zero-sum dynamic.

Federalism, as understood by constitutional scholars, is built upon three pillars: the devolution of powers, the supremacy of the constitution, and non-centralization. While Nigeria's division of powers assigns certain responsibilities like defense and foreign policy to the center, and others like education and health to states and local governments, some argue the federal government holds excessive power. Yet, the article posits that devolution of power does not equate to a division of purpose.

When the federal and state governments work at cross-purposes, citizens bear the consequences. Conversely, collaboration and alignment between these levels of government can lead to tangible development. This alignment does not necessitate a surrender of autonomy but rather an exercise of joint responsibility to improve public services like infrastructure and education. The era of states refusing to engage with federal projects due to political affiliations should be a relic of the past.

The significance of this strategic partnership was underscored during the recent Renewed Hope Ambassadors’ National Media Tour of Legacy Projects in the South East. The tour, which visited Ebonyi, Enugu, and Abia States, provided clear examples of the gains achieved through center-state collaboration. Projects like the ongoing flyover bridge at Eke Obinagu Junction in Enugu State, complemented by the state's dualization of a section of the Enugu-Abakaliki Highway, illustrate how federal and state initiatives can work in tandem to achieve greater impact.