National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Ekpenyong Emmanuel
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated the importance of local government autonomy in driving grassroots development across the country. Speaking during a New Year homage visit by state governors, the President stressed that effective local government administration is crucial for delivering basic amenities and services to the people.
According to President Tinubu, the federal government’s push for local government autonomy is aimed at empowering local councils to take ownership of their development and provide essential services to their communities. He noted that the recent Supreme Court judgment affirming financial autonomy for local governments has paved the way for unprecedented growth and development at the grassroots level.
“We will not fight within us. I will drive the change. You control your local governments. You can restore hope by effectively fulfilling what the people expect at the grassroots level,” President Tinubu told the governors. He urged them to prioritize local government development and autonomy, saying it is essential for addressing the unique needs and challenges of each community.
The President’s comments come as state governors have been working to implement the Supreme Court’s judgment, with many conducting local government elections and establishing new administrative structures. However, there have been concerns that some governors may be reluctant to cede control to local councils, potentially undermining the autonomy of these bodies.
President Tinubu’s assurance that the federal government will not interfere with the affairs of local governments has been seen as a welcome development by stakeholders. The President’s commitment to grassroots development is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of millions of Nigerians, who rely on local governments for basic services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
As the federal government continues to work with state governors to implement local government autonomy, Nigerians will be watching closely to see how this initiative unfolds and what benefits it will bring to communities across the country.
