In a powerful address that has reignited a critical national conversation, former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Maj.-Gen. Ike Nwachukwu (rtd), has declared that comprehensive restructuring and full resource control are the only viable solutions to Nigeria's multifaceted problems. The retired General made this compelling call on Friday, November 22, 2025, at a public event in the nation's capital, Abuja.
The occasion was the public presentation of the book, The Hidden Treasures, authored by Deacon Chris Iyovwaye, who is the chairman of Wellmann Group and founder of the DCI Foundation. The book meticulously examines Nigeria's vast natural resources, with a particular focus on the Niger Delta region, and challenges the country's leaders to fundamentally rethink economic development strategies.
The Case for Restructuring and Resource Control
Addressing a gathering of political leaders, scholars, and industry experts, Gen. Nwachukwu presented a robust argument for decentralizing power. He stated unequivocally that Nigeria will remain underdeveloped for as long as it continues to operate under the 1999 Constitution.
"Every part of Nigeria has enough resources to thrive. As long as we run the 1999 Constitution, Nigeria will be held hostage," Nwachukwu asserted. He passionately advocated for a new system where states control their resources and contribute to the central government, rather than the other way around.
He drew upon past studies to reinforce his point, revealing that vast mineral deposits are scattered across every state in the federation. "It was clear to us that the richest part of Nigeria isn't the Niger Delta alone in terms of minerals. Every state has enough to thrive," he explained. While acknowledging that not every state might attain the economic stature of Lagos or Kano, he firmly believes that the quality of life for citizens everywhere can be significantly improved if states are empowered to manage their own endowments.
Addressing Insecurity and a Call to Action
Shifting focus to the nation's security challenges, the former Minister vehemently defended the capability and courage of the Nigerian military. He dismissed any notions that Nigerian troops are weak, pointing to their valorous performances in international campaigns.
"It's not because our soldiers are cowards. No. We proved ourselves in the Second World War, Liberia, Congo, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Mozambique. Nigerian troops are courageous," Nwachukwu declared. He maintained that with proper equipment, intelligence support, and resources, the military is fully capable of ending the scourge of terrorism and banditry plaguing the country.
He also issued a clarion call to the younger generation of leaders, urging them to step forward and salvage the nation. "Somebody must begin this crusade to salvage our country. Prepare yourselves to take your states further," he charged them, emphasizing the need for a renewed sense of duty.
Echoes of Support from Other Leaders
Nwachukwu's message was strongly reinforced by other prominent figures at the event. Former Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung, urged Nigeria to "go back to the drawing board," stating it is impractical to move forward without tracing past steps. He called for value reorientation and increased youth participation in leadership, noting that "The youth built Nigeria. We must bring them back to leadership."
The book itself, The Hidden Treasures, received high praise. Representing Chief Mike Ozekhome (SAN), Prof. Ezekiel Agbalagba, Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, described it as "a national economic compendium."
Other speakers, including former Information Minister Prof. Jerry Gana and former Labour Party governorship candidate Olumide Akpata, commended the work for highlighting the positive narratives and untapped potential of the Niger Delta. Former SDP presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, stressed that the region's greatest asset is its people, stating, "There is no politics you can play in Nigeria without the Niger Delta."
The author, Deacon Chris Iyovwaye, revealed his motivation was to inspire a new economic vision, noting that "Sixty percent of global resources needed for future growth are in Africa, and a large part of it sits in the Niger Delta." Dr. Mike Ogiadomhe, representing former President Goodluck Jonathan, framed the book as a call to action, warning that "when you fail to act, potential remains potential."
The event successfully brought together academics, business leaders, and political figures, all united in what they described as an urgent and necessary conversation on the future of the Niger Delta and the path to sustainable economic development for Nigeria.
