The Sokoto State governor, Aminu Tambuwal, has called for urgent review of the revenue allocation formula, to favour states and local governments.
Tambuwal made the call when he received various professional groups who paid him Sallah homage on Wednesday in Sokoto.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that 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.
Tambuwal rejected calls for the “geographical” restructuring of Nigeria, saying that instead, the country should focus on fiscal restructuring.
On unity, the governor said dialogue must be adopted by all aggrieved groups to address percieved problems in the country.
“We believe 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.
“There are really challenges in Nigeria, and it is not peculiar to the nation, and these challenges are surmountable.”
Tambuwal promised to revive ailing industries in the state in partnership with the chamber, and adopt policies to bolster trade and commerce.
NAN
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