[dropcap]I[/dropcap]n 1971, 9 poor emirates came together to discuss how they could form a country.
Seven of them were in agreement (Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah, and Umm al-Quwain) while two declined (Bahrain and Qatar). The seven poor Emirates agreed on the modalities of existence and adopted a confederation system (loose federal structure).
Those seven emirates were called the Trucial States. Britain did everything to ensure it did not happen as the British had great interests in the region. The emirates ignored the British and formed what is known now as the United Arab Emirates, UAE with the capital in Abu Dhabi. I love that country!
Forty-five years later, the country is mega-rich and the people are mega-happy.
If we should restructure Nigeria today and adopt federalism or regionalism, more than 70% of our problems would disappear overnight! And President Buhari would become an international hero!
Mr. President, please seize this moment!
Baron Roy is a social media political activists. Connect with him on Facebook.
The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author.
