Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Afenifere, ACF, Other Ethnic Groups Call for Regionalism and Renaming of Nigeria

Major ethnic groups in Nigeria, including Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Afenifere, and the Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (ACF), have called for a shift to regionalism and a parliamentary system of government to address the country’s ongoing challenges. These groups, under the umbrella of the Rebirth Group (TRG), also proposed that Nigeria be renamed the United Regions of Nigeria (URN) as part of a comprehensive restructuring plan.

This proposal was made public in a communiqué following a symposium held in Kaduna, titled “Envisioning Nigeria’s Future: Addressing the National Question.” The event, convened by Owolabi Oladejo, brought together prominent speakers and thought leaders to discuss ways to reshape the nation’s governance. The communiqué, signed by Comrade Jare Ajayi, Mr. Olaolu Abogunloko, and Mr. DIY Nweze, emphasized that restructuring the country into regions would empower these regions to have more control over their internal affairs, with the central government focusing only on national issues that cannot be managed at the regional level.

The symposium’s participants agreed that the current structure of Nigeria is a major factor hindering the country’s progress and unity. The restructuring, they argued, would not abolish existing states but would reorganize them into federating units under the new framework of the United Regions of Nigeria. Each region would have its own constitution and operate autonomously, with the goal of promoting self-determination. Furthermore, the proposed system would ensure that local communities and states where resources are derived would retain 70% of the proceeds, with the remaining 30% directed to the central government.

The event, which was the second of its kind, also addressed issues of national unity and reconciliation. Participants called for the establishment of a Truth, Justice, and Reconciliation Commission to heal the country’s deep-seated divisions and recommended constitutional roles for traditional rulers to foster national cohesion.

The symposium was chaired by Dr. Bitrus Pogu, who was represented by Mr. Emmanuel Alamu. Among the organizations represented were the Ohaneze Ndigbo, Afenifere, Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, Middle Belt Forum, Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation, and other groups advocating for a better and brighter future for Nigeria. These organizations are united in their belief that regionalism, autonomy, and a new governance framework are the keys to addressing the country’s myriad challenges and ensuring long-term stability.