The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Pres. Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has identified ineffective local government administration as a fundamental hindrance to Nigeria’s progress over the years, describing governance at the local level as “nearly absent”.
The press release of the President’s SSA (Media), Chief Ajuri Ngelale obtained by TheMediaGood Newspaper emphasized that President Bola Tinubu welcomed the Supreme Court’s judgment affirming the financial autonomy of local governments, aligning with the Constitution’s intent and purpose. He acknowledged the critical importance of effective local governance, likening it to the “cellular level of socio-political configuration”. The statement said Tinubu’s position underscored his commitment to strengthening local government administration, recognising its pivotal role in driving national development and prosperity.
The President emphasised that the onus is now on local council leaders to ensure that the broad spectrum of Nigerians living at that level were satisfied that they were benefitting from people-oriented service delivery. “The Renewed Hope Agenda is about the people of this country, at all levels, irrespective of faith, tribe, gender, political affiliation, or any other artificial line they say exists between us. This country belongs to all of us. By virtue of this judgement, our people – especially the poor – will be able to hold their local leaders to account for their actions and inactions. What is sent to local government accounts will be known, and services must now be provided without excuses.”
“My administration instituted this suit because of our unwavering belief that our people must have relief and today’s judgement will ensure that it will be only those local officials elected by the people that will control the resources of the people. This judgement stands as a resounding affirmation that we can use legitimate means of redress to restructure our country and restructure our economy to make Nigeria a better place to live in and a fairer society for all of our people,” he stated.
Tinubu noted that the provision of some essential amenities and public goods, such as the construction and maintenance of certain roads, streets, street lighting, drains, parks, gardens, open spaces, and other residual responsibilities, including community security, has tottered owing to the emasculation of local governments.
The President hailed the Supreme Court’s landmark decision to uphold the financial autonomy of local governments, aligning with the constitutional rights and principles, as a historic milestone in strengthening Nigeria’s federal structure.
He praised the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), for his dedication and patriotism in pursuing the significant case.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the principles enshrined in the constitution, which govern the relationships between citizens, government institutions, arms, and tiers of government.
This, he believes, will lead to a more efficient and performance-driven governance system that benefits all Nigerians.