Nigeria’s Minister of Special Duties and Inter-governmental Affairs Backs Supreme Court’s Decision on Local Government Autonomy

In a significant move, Nigeria’s Minister of Special Duties and Inter-governmental Affairs, Zephaniah Jisalo, has expressed his support for the Supreme Court’s decision to grant autonomy to local governments in the country. The seven-justice panel of the apex court, led by Justice Emmanuel Agim, ruled that the 774 local government councils in Nigeria should independently manage their own funds.

According to Jisalo, the autonomy granted to local governments will foster development in these areas. He emphasized that the staff of his ministry must perform their constitutional responsibilities to better the lives of citizens. The minister also highlighted that the autonomy will enable local governments to manage their finances effectively, without interference from state governments.

Jisalo made these remarks during the opening of a two-day retreat for ministry staff in Abuja on Thursday. He noted that the autonomy granted to local governments will also enable them to develop their administration and chieftaincy affairs. The minister disclosed that his ministry will organize a conference for local government leaders and traditional rulers before the end of the year to discuss the implementation of the autonomy.

The minister also used the occasion to emphasize the importance of the retreat, stating that it will help the ministry to strategize and improve its performance. He noted that the outcome of the retreat will have far-reaching implications on the ministry and the entire nation.

The Supreme Court’s decision is seen as a major breakthrough for local governments in Nigeria, which have long been seeking autonomy from state governments. The decision is expected to improve the financial management and governance of local governments, leading to better services for citizens.

With the autonomy granted to local governments, the state assembly will also have a role to play in legislating on the activities of local governments, including the tenure of local government administrations. This is a significant development that is expected to enhance the effectiveness of local governments in Nigeria.