Agbakoba Shapes 2027 Nigeria Presidency Debate Around Devolution, Fiscal Federalism

Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, a human rights advocate and former NBA president, emphasized that Nigeria's 2027 presidential election will hinge on candidates' commitment to fundamental reforms including constitutional replacement, genuine devolution of powers, and fiscal federalism. He advocates for limiting federal powers to key areas such as currency and defense while granting states control over police, energy, education, and healthcare, with local governments managing primary services. Agbakoba also calls for resource ownership by states with at least 50% revenue retention, government divestment from commercial enterprises, and sectoral reforms in maritime, aviation, judiciary, minerals, and agriculture to unlock significant economic potential. In the United States, Virginia voters will elect their next governor, lieutenant governor, and attorney general in November 2025, with candidates Abigail Spanberger and Winsome Earle-Sears competing for the governorship in a historic race. Spanberger brings experience from the CIA and Congress, while Earle-Sears, the first Black woman elected statewide in Virginia, has a background in military and public service. Additionally, Georgia's lieutenant governor candidate Blake Tillery highlighted local legislative achievements and the importance of strong political representation for regional development, including funding for medical research and law enforcement initiatives.