Speaker Links Nigeria’s Challenges to Weak Local Governance

During a national dialogue on Nigeria's security challenges and good governance at the local level, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, emphasized the critical role of local governance in addressing the country's myriad challenges, including widespread insecurity. Represented by his deputy, Tajudeen highlighted the need to strengthen governance at the local government level to enhance national security.

Tajudeen acknowledged the government's efforts to address key issues hindering Nigeria's development, noting that these actions are beginning to yield positive results. He commended Nigerians for their commitment to democracy over the past 25 years and underscored the importance of integrating local governments into the mainstream of governance, as outlined in the President's Renewed Hope Agenda.

He pointed out that despite constitutional provisions for local governments' existence and functions, challenges such as the usurpation of their functions by state governments, lack of financial autonomy, political instability, and corruption have weakened local governance. He called for urgent attention to these issues, stating that local problems require immediate local solutions.

The Speaker highlighted the National Assembly's efforts to champion local government autonomy through various legislative frameworks, including the Fourth Alteration Bill, which proposed amendments to grant financial independence to local governments. He urged governors to prioritize national interests and support initiatives for local government autonomy to ensure their optimal operation and contribution to grassroots development.