Over the weekend, Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State called for a reevaluation of Nigeria’s revenue derivation formula, aligning it with principles of fiscal federalism. Speaking at an event in Houston, Texas, Governor Diri criticized the current practice where resource-rich states, particularly those in the Niger Delta, receive only 13% derivation for their resources, which he argued has stymied state development.
Governor Diri made these remarks while receiving the ‘Icon of Unity and Social Justice’ award from Ijaws in the United States of America and Canada, organized by the Ijaw National Congress, INC-Americas. He expressed gratitude for the recognition and urged Ijaw leaders to maintain their leadership role in the Niger Delta while seeking support from other ethnic groups in the region.
Highlighting the potential of the Niger Delta, Governor Diri envisioned a more prosperous future if states were allowed to fully utilize their resources. He lamented the current situation where Bayelsa State, despite its resource wealth, relies heavily on federal allocations, which he deemed insufficient for development.
Governor Diri emphasized the injustice of the current revenue-sharing system, where resources are collected in Abuja and redistributed among states, diminishing the autonomy of resource-rich regions like Bayelsa. He questioned the fairness of sharing only oil and gas revenues through the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), neglecting other mineral resources like gold.
Addressing concerns about Bayelsa’s financial stability, Governor Diri dismissed claims of insolvency, attributing the state’s challenges to the diversion of its resources. He pledged to sustain efforts to promote Ijaw nationalism and assured continued support for the annual event celebrating Ijaw culture.
The event also honored prominent figures such as former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan, Minister of State for Petroleum Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, and author King Bubaraye Dakolo, among others. Attendees included INC President Prof. Benjamin Okaba, former INC Chairman Chief Joshua Fumudoh, and Chief Ndutimi Alaibe, former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), underscoring the significance of the gathering in advocating for regional interests.
