Mimiko Advocates Power Devolution to Address Nigeria's Challenges

Former Ondo State Governor, Olusegun Mimiko, has reiterated that the devolution of power remains one of the most effective solutions to Nigeria's governance challenges, urging the country to adopt a more decentralised system that promotes efficiency, accountability and better service delivery.

Speaking at the Pastors' Seed Event of the 74th Annual Convention of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), themed "Mountain Movers," Mimiko advocated what he described as the biblical "Jethro Principle," saying authority and resources should be devolved to capable leaders at different levels of governance rather than being concentrated at the centre.

Drawing from the biblical account of Moses and his father-in-law, Jethro, Mimiko said effective governance depends on merit, competence and the delegation of responsibility. He explained that Moses only overcame administrative bottlenecks after he delegated authority to trusted leaders over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens.

According to the former governor, politics should not merely be seen as a struggle for power but as the process through which authority is exercised for the common good. He stressed that government exists to deploy such authority in an organised society and should therefore be structured to ensure efficiency, transparency and accountability.

Mimiko maintained that adopting a more decentralised governance structure would strengthen public institutions, improve decision-making and enable governments at all levels to respond more effectively to the needs of citizens. He urged leaders to prioritise capacity, competence and service above political interests in addressing Nigeria's numerous challenges.