Taking advantage of regional development paradigm

Nigeria's Bola Tinubu administration is reviving a regional economic model, seeking to establish a sustainable policy framework for its future. This approach marks a departure from the past, as it incorporates sub-regional governments within a federal structure, a setup that could introduce governance complexities, especially if state leaderships diverge ideologically.

The article suggests that while regional economic development is not a new concept in Nigeria, the current iteration must be distinct from the pre-statehood regional framework. The past Western Region, under Chief Obafemi Awolowo, saw successful development projects in education, health, agriculture, and industry, with the Odua Group of Companies as a key anchor. The current administration appears to recognize the value in these past successes, particularly for large-scale developmental needs.

Implementing this regional development paradigm requires a robust, long-term plan. The author advocates for a 25- to 50-year vision for each regional development committee, detailing specific programs, projects, costs, and benefits. This strategic planning is crucial for ensuring the model's effectiveness and sustainability, echoing the adage that "he who fails to plan, plans to fail."