Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), has put forward a bold proposal suggesting that Nigeria should be renamed the “United States of Nigeria.” This recommendation was made during his speech titled ‘Making a New Nigeria: Welfarist policies and people-centred development,’ delivered after being awarded the 2024 Obafemi Awolowo Prize for Leadership.
In the statement issued by his Special Adviser on Industrialization, Prof. Banji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka, Adesina argued that renaming the country could shift the dynamic between the states and Abuja. Under this new framework, the states would become the focal point, with the central government serving to support them rather than dictate to them.
Adesina emphasized the need for audacity in governance, advocating for a systemic shift towards good governance, accountability, and zero tolerance for corruption. He envisioned this change leading to economically stronger constituent states, thereby unleashing massive wealth across the nation.
He called for a collective effort from all sectors of society, from rural villages to urban areas, from children to youths, women, men, and businesses of all sizes. Adesina stressed the importance of constitutional changes to devolve more economic and fiscal powers to the states or regions, asserting that stronger states would contribute to a stronger national entity.
In conclusion, Adesina’s proposal aims to foster a sense of unity and empowerment among the states, envisioning a “New Nigeria” built on hope, economic prosperity, and decentralized governance.