The Federal Government has taken a decisive step toward ensuring financial autonomy for Nigeria’s local governments by inaugurating a 10-man inter-ministerial committee tasked with enforcing a recent Supreme Court judgment. Delivered on July 11, 2024, the ruling mandates direct financial allocations to local governments, bypassing state governments, to foster effective governance at the grassroots level.
The committee, chaired by Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator George Akume, includes key ministers and officials, such as the Minister of Finance and the Attorney General of the Federation. Their primary mandate is to ensure that local governments operate independently, free from state interference, in line with the Constitution’s recognition of local governments as the third tier of government.
This move is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader strategy to strengthen local governance and build a more resilient economy. By empowering local governments, the administration aims to promote grassroots development, ensuring that communities have the resources and autonomy needed to address local issues effectively.
Justice Emmanuel Agim, in delivering the landmark Supreme Court judgment, emphasized the need for local governments to receive their allocations directly, as the current system of routing funds through state governments has proven ineffective. The committee’s work is expected to create a framework that fosters collaboration between state and local governments, enabling them to work together to improve economic conditions across the country.
There is a growing recognition that for Nigeria to achieve sustainable economic growth, both state and local governments must cooperate closely with their communities. Local governments, with their new autonomy, will be better positioned to address the unique needs of their areas, but success will depend on a collaborative approach involving all levels of government.
As this initiative moves forward, it is crucial for state and local governments to work in tandem, not only with each other but also with community leaders and organizations. By aligning their efforts, they can create a more inclusive and robust economy that benefits all Nigerians. The government’s emphasis on local autonomy is a positive step, but its success will hinge on the willingness of all parties to cooperate and share a common vision for the nation’s future
