Nigeria’s unity not negotiable —Tambuwal

•Wants FG to focus on fiscal restructuring

Sokoto State governor, Aminu Tambuwal, said on Wednesday that the unity of Nigeria was non-negotiable.

Speaking when he received members of various professional groups who paid him Sallah homage, the governor advised the country to focus on fiscal restructuring.

The groups included Sokoto Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture; Association of Resident Communities; Coalition of non-governmental organisations, among others.

“Dialogue is also the most potent tool to resolve all problems, anywhere and at anytime,” he said.

“There are really challenges in Nigeria, and it is not peculiar to the nation, and these challenges are surmountable…  The unity of Nigeria is non-negotiable.”

He also called for the urgent review of the revenue allocation formula, to favour states and local governments.

“The state and the local governments are the closest tiers of government to the people, unfortunately, they are getting less than the Federal Government from the federation account,” he said.

“The ugly trend should be reversed in favour of states and local governments to enable them meet the overwhelming demands of the grassroots.”

He promised to revive ailing industries in the state in partnership with the chamber, and adopt policies to bolster trade and commerce.

The governor told the group of non-indigenes living in the state that they were equal partners in running the affairs of the state.

He promised that his administration would not discriminate against anyone, irrespective of tribe or religion.