Makinde calls on leaders to find common ground on Nigeria's system of government

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde emphasized that achieving the desired outcome of federalism in Nigeria requires an elite consensus among the country's leaders and stakeholders, aligning with the vision of its founding fathers, particularly Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the first Premier of the Western Region.

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This statement was made by Governor Makinde on Friday during the 2026 Obafemi Awolowo Memorial Lecture, which took place at the Efunyela Hall, Obafemi Awolowo Residence, in Ikenne, Ogun State, as announced in a release by his Special Adviser on Media, Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju.

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He praised Awolowo for his visionary leadership and stance on federalism, noting that subsequent leaders became complacent, and decisions were made without considering data, logic, or science, unlike Awolowo's approach.

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According to Governor Makinde, Awolowo's decision-making process was rooted in a thorough examination of the facts, saying, "Papa Awolowo, before tackling any challenge, he would look at the data, the logic behind those things, and he would look at the science."

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He stated that he is following in Awolowo's footsteps, highlighting that the cardinal programs of Awolowo, including education, health, and economic emancipation, are being implemented in Oyo State, with the addition of security.

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Governor Makinde emphasized that federalism is the right approach for Nigeria, given its diversity, and that leaders must come together to focus on the country's future, rather than its present challenges, through an elite consensus.

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An elite consensus refers to a situation where the ruling class and political leaders agree unanimously on long-term goals for national stability, policy direction, and the preservation of the system, which is essential for Nigeria's progress.

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Without this consensus, Governor Makinde warned that Nigeria may face more difficult times in the coming decades, stressing that true federalism requires elite consensus and a focus on the next generation, rather than the next election.

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He drew parallels with other African countries, citing the examples of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, which have faced significant challenges, including a 65-year period of rebel activity in Eastern DRC.

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Governor Makinde noted that if Nigeria does not address its situation, it may remain stagnant for 100 years, emphasizing the need for change and citing Rwanda's post-genocide transformation as an example to follow.

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The 2026 Obafemi Awolowo Memorial Lecture was attended by prominent figures, including former Governors Gbenga Daniel and Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Minister of State for Health Dr. Isiaq Salako, and Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Mrs. Noimot Salako-Oyedele.

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Other attendees included Ambassador Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, who chaired the occasion, patron of the Obafemi Awolowo Foundation Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, and Hon Ladi Adebutu, among others.