Nigerian Senator Calls for Decentralization to Revamp Economy

Nigerian Senator Ayo Arise, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has urged the Federal Government to decentralize key sectors, including power, security, and energy, to revamp the ailing economy and address pressing issues such as unemployment, insecurity, and high cost of petroleum products. Arise argued that full decentralization of these sectors is the only way to tackle the nation's challenges head-on.

Decentralization of key sectors could have a significant impact on Nigeria's economy, potentially leading to increased efficiency and productivity. If implemented effectively, it could also lead to a reduction in unemployment and insecurity, which are major concerns for the nation's stability and growth.

"We must begin to disabuse our minds; Nigeria has become so big for anybody to run from the centre. If you don't decentralize, the problem will continue to make even the president unpopular," Arise stated emphatically. The senator suggested that private individuals should be encouraged to set up modular refineries to end the recurrent fuel crisis. He also advocated for states to generate their own electricity, citing the example of Abia State as a welcome development.

Arise emphasized the need for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to curb corruption and fight saboteurs to ensure the success of his policies. He also suggested that the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) should reduce interest rates to facilitate production and economic growth. The senator expressed mixed views on deregulation, acknowledging its benefits but also highlighting its potential burden on Nigeria as a developing nation.

Why this matters: On the issue of security, Arise expressed support for the call for State Police, urging lawmakers to expedite action on the matter to curb the incursions of bandits and terrorists. "If state police is allowed to function, a number of our youth will be engaged. You can imagine every state having their own police, ditto the university, many of our youths risking the streets will be recruited," he noted. The senator also cautioned labour unions against frequent confrontations with the government, suggesting instead that they should engage in dialogue to find solutions.

Senator Ayo Arise represented Ekiti North Senatorial District from 2011 to 2015. His call for decentralization comes at a critical time for Nigeria, as the nation grapples with a myriad of economic and security challenges. With unemployment rates soaring and insecurity threatening the fabric of society, many Nigerians are looking to the government for bold and decisive action to steer the country back on track.

Key Takeaways

• Nigerian Senator Ayo Arise urges decentralization of power, security, and energy to revamp economy.
• Decentralization could increase efficiency, reduce unemployment and insecurity.
• Arise suggests private modular refineries and state-generated electricity to address fuel crisis.
• He advocates for State Police to curb banditry and terrorism, and lower interest rates to boost growth.
• Arise cautions labour unions against confrontations, urging dialogue with government instead.