It takes courage to accept the obvious when it is convenient to follow the status quo. It even takes more courage to put the obvious in motion when we can hide in the convenience of accepted norms: Therefore I commend the President for accepting and implementing the self evident truth that Nigeria is in need of a restructure. He could easily have hidden in the phrase of Nigeria being the giant of Africa, without allowing discussions on the physical and mental state of this giant, and why she has been unable to attain anywhere near her true potentials. He could, like some before him, have lived in denial and passed the buck to the next generation.

To all who are gathered here and those playing varying supporting roles outside this chambers - history beckons. We have been empanelled by divine instrumentality to change our country for the better and secure the future of our children, and to restore pride and dignity to the black race – Nigerians being 1 out of every 4 black persons on this planet.

This public hearing on the alteration of the Constitution comes at a very critical moment in Nigeria's history; 52 years after independence. I thank the hierarchy of the National Assembly, Distinguished Senators and Honourable Members for taking this bold step as I do believe that a holistic review of the  Constitution is a sine qua non to rapid national development. A proper amendment of the Constitution will give Nigeria a balanced federation, ensure true fiscal federalism and unlock the boundless energies and creativity of Nigerians.  The time has come to look at issues from the perspective of true Nationalists and not as ethnic or regional champions.