The Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex socio-cultural organisation representing the Igbo people, has renewed its call for the Federal Government to convene an immediate Sovereign National Conference to deliberate on the future of Nigeria.
The group believes that a broad-based national dialogue could provide a platform for Nigerians from different ethnic, religious and regional backgrounds to discuss critical issues affecting the country and explore lasting solutions to them.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo reportedly argued that the proposed conference should address concerns surrounding Nigeria’s political structure, constitutional arrangements, resource control and the distribution of political power.
The demand comes amid persistent national conversations about restructuring and the need to reform the country’s federal system. Advocates of a national dialogue have argued that Nigeria’s current structure has contributed to political tensions, uneven development and disagreements over the sharing of national resources.
The issue is particularly important as Nigeria continues to grapple with economic difficulties, insecurity and concerns about effective governance. Proponents of the conference believe that an inclusive dialogue could allow stakeholders to openly examine these challenges and agree on reforms that would promote greater stability and national unity.
However, the idea of a Sovereign National Conference has also attracted different opinions over the years. While supporters see it as a potential avenue for resolving deep-rooted national issues, critics have questioned its legal framework and whether its recommendations would be implemented.
Nigeria has previously organised national dialogues and constitutional reform exercises aimed at addressing some of the country’s structural challenges. Despite several recommendations emerging from such initiatives, many proposed changes have remained subjects of political debate.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s latest position therefore adds to the ongoing national discussion about constitutional reform and the future of Nigeria’s federal arrangement. The organisation’s call also reflects the concerns of groups seeking greater political inclusion and a stronger system of governance.
As debates over restructuring and constitutional reform continue, attention will be focused on whether the Federal Government and other political stakeholders will support a broader national dialogue.
The renewed call ultimately highlights the continuing search for solutions to Nigeria’s longstanding political and socioeconomic challenges, while placing national unity, inclusive governance and institutional reform at the centre of the conversation.
