The Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, on Friday differed with those calling for restructuring and regional autonomy in the country, insisting that it will not make life better for Nigerians in the long term.
The minister stated this on Friday while delivering the 34th convocation lecture of the University of Calabar in Cross River State, adding that it was unfair to blame the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari for the rising poverty rate in the country as the problem preceded the current administration.
“In recent days, we have begun to hear loud voices of disunity from various sections of the country. In response to current economic difficulties and the problem of insecurity, some have insisted on the now familiar argument for restructuring of the federation. Others have advocated increased regional autonomy. Some extremists are calling for secession of parts of the country from the federation. None of these divisive options would serve the urgent needs of this nation or the long-term aspiration of all our people for a better life in a happier nation.
“Let me say without any fear that the concerns being raised by Nigerians about the future of our country are legitimate. They are indications of great patriotism and love. We all treasure this country and are anxious that it transforms into a better place for all of us. This overwhelming wish for a better Nigeria far outweighs the doomsday predictions of a few pessimists”, Amaechi said.
