Ambakederimo demands 70% resource revenue for states, seeks true federalism

By Oluwadamilola Christiana

Joseph Ambakederimo, the convener of the South-South Reawakening Group (SSRG), has called for a fundamental restructuring of Nigeria’s federal system, proposing that states retain 70 percent of revenues generated from natural resources within their territories.

Ambakederimo spoke in Abuja on Saturday during a birthday breakfast media chat marking his 65th birthday, themed “Federalism with equity: Fair resources, fair opportunities.”

He argued that Nigeria’s current fiscal arrangement has concentrated too much power and revenue at the centre, limiting the capacity of states to drive development according to their needs.

According to him, the 13 percent derivation formula under the 1999 Constitution does not adequately compensate resource-producing communities for the environmental and economic consequences of oil exploration, particularly in the Niger Delta.

He cited oil spills, gas flaring, pollution and the destruction of fishing and farming livelihoods as persistent challenges facing host communities.

Ambakederimo also criticised what he described as piecemeal restructuring, including local government autonomy and the proposed establishment of state police, saying Nigeria needs a comprehensive review of its political, fiscal and security structures.

He advocated a return to the principles of the 1963 Constitution, under which regions enjoyed greater control over resources while contributing an agreed share to the centre.

The SSRG convener said the resource control debate should no longer be viewed as a South-South demand, noting that states in other parts of the country are increasingly discovering valuable mineral resources and attracting investments.

He also referenced recent criticism by Douye Diri, Bayelsa state governor, of the current revenue-sharing system, saying it reinforces the need for a fairer fiscal structure.

Ambakederimo warned that excessive centralisation has contributed to regional suspicion and slowed development, arguing that greater fiscal autonomy would allow states to invest more effectively in infrastructure, education, healthcare and other priorities.

He called for constitutional amendments, stronger state autonomy and strict adherence to the rule of law, insisting that equitable resource distribution is essential to Nigeria’s long-term stability and development.

“Federalism with equity, fair resources, Fair Opportunities, is a task that must be done,” he said.