The Governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal, has urged aggrieved groups
across Nigeria to adopt dialogue to resolve their differences.
Mr. Tambuwal said he believes “in the unity of the country and the unity
of Nigeria is non-negotiable.”
“Dialogue is also the most potent tool to resolve all problems, anywhere
and at anytime,” he said.
“There are really challenges in Nigeria, and it is not peculiar to the
nation, and these challenges are surmountable.”
The former House of Representatives Speaker also called for urgent review
of the revenue allocation formula, to favour states and local governments.
He made the call when he received various professional groups who paid him
Sallah homage on Wednesday in Sokoto.
The groups included Sokoto Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and
Agriculture; Association of Resident Communities; Coalition of
Non-Governmental Organizations, among others.
“The state and the local governments are the closest tiers of government
to the people, unfortunately, they are getting less than the Federal
Government from the Federation Account.
“The ugly trend should be reversed in favour of states and local
governments to enable them meet the overwhelming demands of the
grassroots,” the governor said.
Mr. Tambuwal rejected calls for the “geographical” restructuring of
Nigeria, saying that instead, the country should focus on fiscal
restructuring.
He promised to revive ailing industries in the state in partnership with
the chamber, and adopt policies to bolster trade and commerce.
The governor told the group of non-indigenes living in the state that they
are equal partners in running the affairs of the state.
He promised that the administration would not discriminate against anyone,
irrespective of tribe or religion.
To the NGOs and other groups, Tambuwal urged them to offer constructive
criticisms that would guide the government in meeting the challenges
confronting the state.
The President of the Chamber, Kabiru Tafida, and Augustine Onumba,
Chairman of the association of resident communities, hailed the governor
for his steadfastness.
(NAN)