Without Restructuring, Nigeria Can’t Move Forward — SGF Akume Warns

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has said that restructuring should be seen not as a political slogan but as a strategic imperative for Nigeria’s sustainable development and national unity.

Akume made this known during the public presentation of a book, “Restructuring Nigeria: The Way Forward,” authored by former Rivers State Governor, Celestine Omehia, held in Abuja on Wednesday.

Represented by his aide, Prof. Bolaji Babatunde Bernard, the SGF emphasized that restructuring is about strengthening the federation, not dividing it.

“Restructuring is not about breaking up Nigeria. It is about devolving responsibilities, empowering subnational governments, and creating a governance structure that brings power closer to the people,” he stated.

Akume urged advocates of restructuring to pursue the cause with patriotism, peaceful dialogue, and a focus on national unity, rather than using it as a divisive tool.

He pointed out that several of the current administration’s reforms already align with restructuring principles, citing:

• The removal of fuel subsidies

• Unification of the foreign exchange market

• Ongoing tax reforms aimed at empowering states to generate and retain more revenue

• Discussions around the creation of state police to enhance grassroots security

• Investments in digital and physical infrastructure to boost state-level development

According to the SGF, these steps are designed to broaden the fiscal space, improve economic governance, and enable states to become true engines of growth.