The Federal Government has reiterated its dedication to reinforcing local governance and ensuring the full implementation of local government autonomy in Nigeria. This commitment was emphasized by the Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Rt. Hon. Zephaniah Bitrus Jisalo, while officially inaugurating the Nigeria Local Government Development Summit at the U&M Event Centre, Abuja, yesterday.
Represented by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Onwusoro Maduka Ihemelandu, the Minister reaffirmed the government’s resolve to enhance intergovernmental collaboration, ensuring that local government autonomy translates into tangible development at the grassroots.
Jisalo highlighted that a strong and efficient local government system is pivotal to national progress. He emphasized that the Federal Government, through his ministry, remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote effective governance at the grassroots in alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 8-Point Renewed Hope Agenda.
Themed “The Supreme Court Ruling on Local Government Autonomy and the Future of Local Government Administration and Grassroots Development,” the summit brought together key stakeholders, including members of the National Assembly, traditional rulers, local government administrators, and development partners. The discussions focused on the impact of the recent Supreme Court judgment affirming financial and administrative autonomy for local governments.
The Minister underscored that the ruling presents an unprecedented opportunity to reshape governance at the grassroots, ensuring direct access to resources and decision-making power for local authorities. He reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to collaborating with all levels of government to translate the ruling into meaningful developmental progress.
Jisalo further emphasized plans to foster partnerships with local governments, development agencies, and private sector players to enhance capacity building, infrastructure development, and improved service delivery. He urged all stakeholders, including government institutions, civil society organizations, and international partners, to work collectively in advancing policies that empower local governments to fulfill their constitutional responsibilities.
“Local government autonomy must transcend policy statements; it requires decisive action, robust intergovernmental cooperation, and accountability. This summit serves as a vital platform to explore practical solutions and forge strategic partnerships that will drive sustainable grassroots development,” he stated.
Organized by the Committee on States and Local Government Administration, the summit aims to provide a clear roadmap for the full implementation of local government autonomy in Nigeria. Participants are expected to engage in high-level discussions and develop strategies to enhance governance at the grassroots level.
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