From Timothy Agbor, Osogbo

Says many of Fed Govt’s responsibilities better handled by states
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has said that state governments are better positioned to handle many of the items contained in the Exclusive Legislative List.

He said the solution to the myriad of challenges confronting the nation lies in devolution of powers and financing to the state governments.

Adeleke gave the advice, at the weekend, during the 10th undergraduate and sixth post-graduate convocation of Adeleke University in Ede.

The governor, while addressing the graduating students and dignitaries at the occasion, said: “You may also want to note that governments at all levels are working hard to address the parlous state of the economy. At the National Economic Council (NEC) meetings, both the federal and the state governments regularly brainstorm on finding solutions to the economic hardship, unemployment, and hyperinflation facing the nation. Several options are being experimented on.

“For us as a state, we believe the solutions lie in the devolution of powers and financing to the state governments. There is an urgent need to move many items on the Exclusive Legislative List to the Concurrent List. The states are better positioned to handle many items for which the centre is currently responsible for.

“So, the solution is more devolution rather than more centralisation of governance powers and responsibilities. We must as a nation focus on economic federalism. This will deepen sub-national prosperity and create an enabling environment for job creation and boost local capacity across the sectors.

“We must, however, continue to maintain national stability and unity. We cannot escape the several issues facing us as a nation unless we harness our potential across the regions. But only when there is peace can we resolve the economic question. We will continue to support President Bola Tinubu as all levels of government grapple with the crisis of the moment.”