Advocate for Peace Calls for Decentralised Govt to Empower Local Leaders

Funmi Ogundare

Peace and unity advocate, Sike Chimezirim, yesterday advocated a decentralised government, saying that it would empower local leaders who best understand their communities’ unique needs, allowing for faster and more effective responses to challenges.

At a symposium he hosted in Abuja with the theme: ‘Unity in Diversity: Building Trust Through Dialogue’, Chimezirim highlighted that key areas like health, education, infrastructure, and security would benefit greatly from localised governance.

He said: “Empowering local entities will enhance citizen participation, making governance a truly collaborative effort. This model has been successfully implemented in other parts of the world, resulting in improved service delivery, increased accountability and stronger social contract between the state and its citizens.”

He commended President Bola Tinubu for the establishment of the Ministry of Regional Development and the legislative commissions for the North East, North West, South East, and South West.

“This initiative is a step in the right direction toward ensuring that diverse regions in Nigeria receive the attention and resources they rightly deserve. It signifies a commitment to address regional disparities and promote development that is inclusive and representative of our rich diversity,” he stated.

The advocate noted that  local governance should be a vehicle for building bridges, fostering inter-community dialogue, and celebrating shared identities while respecting differences.

Chimezirim also supported policies that embody fairness, inclusivity, and the dismantling of barriers that fuel distrust and division.

“The road ahead must not only focus on economic growth but should also foster unity among the diverse populations of Nigeria. It is crucial to recognise that development is most effective when it uplifts everyone. Our federal government must ensure that no citizen feels left behind, regardless of their geographical or social standing,” he said.