Former Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries representing Nigeria’s South-West states have advocated for constitutional changes to bolster regional governance. The group asserts that shifting away from a centralized system is essential to overcoming the nation’s pressing security and development issues.
These sentiments emerged during the 11th Quarterly Meeting of the Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries, South-West Nigeria (ARHOSPS-SWN), held in Ibadan. The gathering convened retired officials from Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, and Ekiti to deliberate on federal structure and public administration.
Chief Adebisi Adesola, the association’s Oyo State chapter chairman, noted that the historical regional model previously encouraged economic progress and political stability. He argued that the present system hinders states from effectively managing local security, citing recent kidnappings as evidence of systemic failure.
Regional President Demola Badejo encouraged current administrations to utilize the collective wisdom of veteran civil servants. To this end, the group has established a seven-point strategy involving policy advocacy and leadership development. Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, represented by Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, praised these efforts and noted that a detailed regional development proposal submitted by the group is currently being reviewed by local authorities. Furthermore, the governor highlighted recent progress in state infrastructure and an increase in monthly gratuity payments for retirees.
