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Ike Nwachukwu Roots For Devolution Of Power
A former Foreign Affairs Minister, Maj.-Gen Ike Nwachukwu(rtd), has faulted the over-concentration of power at the centre, calling for more powers for state and local governments in the country.
Nwachukwu made the call while speaking at the “Vanguard Personality of the Year Awards”in Lagos.
He said there was the need for power to properly devolve from the centre to the other federating units to reflect true federalism.
“We need to devolve the over-concentration of power at the centre, whilst allowing the federating units more autonomy.
“And just as we are seeking devolution of more powers to the state governments as federating units from the centre, so should the states guarantee the autonomy of the local governments under them,” he said.
Nwachukwu said the creation of local governments should not be the responsibility of the federal government but that of the states.
He said the sustenance of local governments should consequently be the responsibility of the states.
On the clamour for restructuring, the former minister said that was the way to go for the country, for unity and sustainable development.
He said it behoved on Nigerians and the country ‘s leaders to deliver on the restructuring of the country in order to have a true federation where no one is oppressed.
“I believe that it is only when we achieve this can our country be stable, its security guaranteed and its economy for the betterment of all, “ he said.
Nwachukwu said democracy was a misnomer in the absence of freedom of speech and thoughts.
He said it was important to protect the freedom of press and rule of law.
“The People of our country should, henceforth be prepared to defend that freedom as indeed we must the Rule of Law with all our might, if it is our desire that democracy should thrive,” he said.
The former minister urged the media not to abdicate its responsibility as the voice of the voiceless for development.
The Tide source reports that the President’s wife, Mrs Aisha Buhari and former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, were among personalities honoured at the awards.
Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State, Governor Darius Ishaku of Taraba, Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa and Governor Umar Ganduje of Kano were among the governors honoured.
Prominent businessman, Chief Oba Otudeko and foremost musician, King Sunny Ade were also honoured among other personalities.
The 2025 annual general meeting (AGM) and conference of the Rivers/Bayelsa states chapter of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has come to a close with a strong call for both states to drive the blue economy.
The communique just issued after the AGM pointed to what it called emerging prospects in fish processing, seaweed cultivation, ship repair, and marine technology.
The communique which also mentioned human capital gaps that must be filled through technical and vocational training that are aligned with modern industrial needs, said the blue economy represents a viable pathway for Nigeria’s industrialisation.
It said MAN and Arican Marine Environment Sustainability Initiative (AFMESI) have the capacity to unlock Nigeria’s blue economy sustainably and inclusively, but said the region required dedicated infrastructure upgrades, including roads, waterways, and power.
The communique was signed by Vincent Okuku (Chairman of Rivers/Bayelsa States Branch); Michael Nosa Agana (Branch Vice Chairman/Chairman AGM planning Committee); and Chibuzor Eze (Executive Secretary, Rivers/Bayelsa States Branch).
The resolutions said the future of the Niger Delta economy lies in diversification rather than dependence on extractive industries. “Technology and innovation, value addition and local processing, strategic infrastructure, and a skilled workforce are essential pillars for the future of manufacturing in the region.
“Governments in the region must intensify support for manufacturing activities. Various forms of collaboration across sectors should be actively encouraged.”
It specifically advised Bayelsa and Rivers States to fully develop and harness the blue economy as strategic gateways for sustainable growth; and called for cross-border partnerships with neighbouring states to enhance trade, security, and environmental management.”
The Rivers/Bayelsa States branch of MAN held its first (41st) AGM outside Port Harcourt for the first time, hosted by Bayelsa State Government at the Chief D.S.P. Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall, with the theme: ‘Trade, Technology, and the Future of Manufacturing in the Niger Delta.’
In his welcome address, the chairman of the branch, Okuku, commended the Bayelsa State Government under the leadership of Gov Douye Diri for its efforts in industrial development, investment promotion, and strong partnership with the private sector.
He also acknowledged the Rivers State Government for its commitment to rehabilitating industrial clusters, improving access roads, and delivering key infrastructure.
He, however, expressed concern over persistent challenges such as high energy costs, unreliable electricity supply, weak transport systems, rising logistics expenses, multiple taxes and levies, inconsistent regulatory frameworks, and pressure from host communities, which continue to hinder manufacturing growth in both states.
The President of MAN, Francis Meshioye, noted that the Niger Delta, with its abundant resources and strategic location, holds vast potential for industrial expansion. He called for policy frameworks that promote local manufacturing, enhance trade, and attract investments to the region.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Minister of the Federal Ministry of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, represented by Wasa Festus, Director of Community Development and Education. Another goodwill message was also presented by the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment, Ebieri Jones.
In his remarks, Gov Diri praised MAN for its contributions to Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, noting its resilience, innovation, and strategic role in national development. He stated that the conference theme aligns with his administration’s mantra of “Assured Prosperity.”
Gov Diri offered 24-hour service to manufacturers wishing to relocate to the state, and highlighted the State’s ongoing transformation through deliberate investment in infrastructure, security, and human capital aimed at positioning Bayelsa State as a hub for industrial growth, particularly in the blue economy, agriculture, and manufacturing.
He further noted that hosting the 41st AGM fulfilled a long-desired aspiration of the State following the successful 2024 MAN event in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He officially declared the exhibition open.
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund has alerted the public to a fraudulent message circulating online, claiming that the NELFUND Student Loan Registration Portal is open.
The message directs applicants to a third-party link (http://gvly.xyz/Nelfund-Student-Loan, which NELFUND confirms is unauthorised and fraudulent.
In a post obtained from its X handle, yesterday, NELFUND urged students and the general public not to click on the link or provide any personal information, emphasising that the official loan registration portal is only accessible through the Fund’s verified channels.
The agency reminded applicants to exercise caution online and to report any suspicious links or communications claiming to be from NELFUND.
“Applicants are encouraged to always verify official announcements via NELFUND’s official website and social media channels,” NELFUND said.
This advisory comes as part of NELFUND’s ongoing efforts to safeguard students and ensure the integrity of the student loan application process.
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