Former Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko has urged the Nigerian government to adopt a devolved system of governance as a sustainable solution to the country’s enduring political and administrative challenges, emphasizing that excessive centralization of power has worsened insecurity, corruption, poverty, and ethnic tensions. Speaking at the 74th Annual Convention of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), themed “Mountain Movers,” Mimiko delivered a powerful address titled “The Government and Politics Mountain” during the Pastors’ Seed Event. He argued that true federalism cannot be achieved without empowering state and local governments to make decisions that directly impact their communities.
Drawing from biblical teachings, Mimiko referenced the “Jethro Principle,” highlighting how Moses was advised by his father-in-law Jethro to delegate responsibilities to capable leaders in order to manage the growing demands of leadership. He explained that this principle is highly relevant to modern governance, where authority and resources must be moved closer to the people for more effective administration. According to him, governance functions best when competent individuals are placed in positions of responsibility at the grassroots level, allowing them to address local issues with greater understanding and efficiency.
Mimiko stressed that Nigeria’s diverse cultural, ethnic, and religious landscape makes a centralized system inherently ineffective. He maintained that national leaders should focus on overarching policies while sub-national governments handle local matters such as education, health, infrastructure, and security. “Power and responsibility should be moved closer to the people so that local problems can be solved locally,” he said, adding that merit, competence, and capacity must guide appointments and decision-making at all levels of government.
While acknowledging President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to decentralize certain areas like policing and resource management, Mimiko insisted that deeper structural reforms are necessary to fix systemic failures in governance. He linked centralization to many of Nigeria’s current crises, including poor leadership, rising insecurity, and widespread corruption. “Centralised government cannot effectively manage a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and multi-religious nation like Nigeria,” he stated, urging leaders closest to the people to be empowered to solve the problems closest to them.
In addition to advocating for institutional change, Mimiko called on Christians and Nigerians of all faiths to engage actively in politics and public service. He described governance as a critical sphere of influence that shapes national development and warned against viewing politics merely as a contest for power. Instead, he encouraged citizens to see it as a platform for promoting justice, peace, and the common good. He emphasized the need for prayer combined with civic action to drive national renewal and lasting transformation.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with complex governance issues, Mimiko’s call for devolution offers a framework that could enhance accountability, responsiveness, and inclusivity in public administration. His message resonates with growing demands for structural reform and participatory democracy across the country.
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