ACF'S CONCERN ABOUT TRANSFERRING FAAN AND OTHER CBN'S DEPARTMENTS TO LAGOS

PROTECTING THE UNITY OF NIGERIA: ACF BOT CHAIRMAN, BASHIR DALHATU'S CONCERNS ABOUT TRANSFERRING FAAN AND OTHER CBN DEPARTMENTS TO LAGOS - Haruna Abubakar Bebeji 

Introduction

Early this week, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu (Wazirin Dutse), has raised concerns over the decision to transfer some departments of the Federal Aviation Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) from the capital city, Abuja, to Lagos. Dalhatu's reservations about this move are anchored in his belief that it violates the spirit of Nigeria's unity and could set a dangerous precedent in terms of regional representation and equity.

Background

The decision by the Tinubu-led administration to move certain departments of FAAN to Lagos as well as some departments of the Apex Bank, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has sparked widespread debate and controversy. While some argue that the move is a practical step to enable the authority to oversee the majority of airline activities, others like Waziri are critical of the decision, viewing it as detrimental to the unity of Nigeria as a nation.

Waziri's Concerns

Waziri's main contention lies in the potential consequences of this move and how it challenges the principles upon which Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, was established. He highlights the importance of the FCT as a symbol of unity and togetherness for all Nigerians, regardless of their regional origins. Transferring key departments to Lagos would not only disrupt this symbolic concept but also establish a dangerous precedent that could lead to further dismemberment of government agencies based on commercial or regional considerations.

Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu points out the inconsistency in the argument that FAAN should be moved to Lagos due to the city's higher concentration of airline activities. If such a rationale were to be followed strictly, he argues, it would be reasonable to transfer the Ministry of Commerce to commercial hubs like Onitsha in Anambra State or Kano State, known for their thriving business industries. Similarly, ministries related to agriculture and education should be relocated to areas with significant agricultural or educational activities. By doing so, an equitable distribution of ministries according to their corresponding activities can be achieved.

The Importance of Unity

The implications of moving FAAN to Lagos go beyond the immediate concerns of regional representation. Nigeria, as one of the most diverse nations in Africa, has relied on the notion of unity to foster a sense of belonging and peaceful coexistence among its various ethnic groups. To preserve this unity, it is imperative that the federal government upholds and respects the importance of the FCT as a neutral ground that belongs to all Nigerians, regardless of their geographical or ethnic backgrounds.

Adherence to the Constitution

ACF BOT Chairman, Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu's concerns are not merely rooted in matters of symbolism and unity. He rightly points out that such a move could be viewed as a violation of the constitution – the foundation upon which Nigeria's democracy is built. Any action that contravenes the constitution sets a dangerous precedent that could allow subsequent governments to further dismantle key institutions or ministries, leading to further division and potential conflicts.

Conclusion

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must carefully consider the potential implications of transferring FAAN and other departments of CBN to Lagos. By heeding Chairman Dalhatu's concerns and the wider implications for the unity of Nigeria, Tinubu can demonstrate his respect for the rule of law, the constitution, and the principles that underpin Nigeria's federal system.

It is essential that President Tinubu avoids any actions that may be seen as tribalistic or promoting regional biases. This will ultimately strengthen his credibility and showcase his commitment to a unified Nigeria, where all regions feel equally respected and represented. It is the duty of all leaders to protect and foster the unity of Nigeria, ensuring that the bond between its diverse people remains unbreakable.

My name is Haruna Abubakar Bebeji.  

I'm a passionate writer, content manager and blogger from Kano, Nigeria. I started writing online about politics, governance and day-to-day issues to share my thoughts, ideas, and experiences in this space. Over time, my blog has become a space for me to inspire, motivate, and entertain others.  

I'm committed to bringing engaging, quality content that will help make anyone's life just a little bit better. I love to explore new topics, review products, and discuss the latest trends in politics and governance. 

I write in both English and Hausa and as a certified International Translator and Interpreter, I Translate from English to Hausa or Hausa to English. When I'm not writing, managing or creating content, you can find me outside enjoying nature, reading, or spending time with family or friends.  

Thanks for visiting my page. 

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