Nigeria’s Local Governments Gained Fiscal Autonomy: What’s Next?
The recent Supreme Court verdict granting fiscal autonomy to Nigeria’s 774 local government areas has sparked a mix of emotions and expectations. While some stakeholders are excited about the prospects of improved development in rural areas, others are concerned about the ability of local government chairmen to manage their newfound freedom.
According to Muazu Maifata, President of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), the judgment is a significant step towards a turnaround in the development of rural areas. Maifata urged local government administrations to reciprocate the Supreme Court judgment and the president’s gesture by ensuring accountability at the third tier.
Many Nigerians, including human rights advocate Auwal Gombe, are expecting improved infrastructural development, enhanced basic services, and increased transparency and accountability. Gombe believes that fiscal autonomy will enable local governments to become more responsive, effective, and accountable to the people, leading to meaningful development and improved living standards at the grassroots level.
However, not everyone is optimistic. An FCT resident, Oyiwona Augustine, expressed concerns about the potential misuse of powers, looting, and extravagant spending, citing the Nigerian system as a major challenge. Another resident, Agih Isaac Sylvester, expects to see more developments in rural areas, but emphasized the need for accountability and transparency in local government administration.
The Supreme Court ruling has also raised concerns about the potential for governors to remain in control through the back door. Peter Uloko from Kaduna State emphasized the importance of holding local government chairmen accountable, especially in big cities.
As Nigeria’s local governments navigate this new era of fiscal autonomy, one thing is clear: the stakes are high, and the success of this experiment will depend on the ability of local governments to manage their newfound powers responsibly and transparently.
