Nigeria’s Local Governments Pledge Harmony with Governors, Eye Infrastructure Development
In a move aimed at bolstering grassroots development, the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) has pledged a cordial working relationship with state governors. The commitment was made by Alhaji Aminu Muazu-Maifata, the National President of ALGON, during a news conference in Lafia, Nasarawa state.
According to Muazu-Maifata, a harmonious relationship between council chairmen and governors will ensure proper developments at the grassroots level. He commended the Supreme Court for its landmark judgment granting financial autonomy to local government councils in the country.
The ALGON leader expressed joy over the judgment, which he believes will propel council chairmen to redouble their efforts in delivering dividends of democracy to the people. He acknowledged that the new arrangement, where funds will come directly from the Federal Government, will attract high expectations from the people, governors, and even President Bola Tinubu, who is passionate about rural area development.
However, Muazu-Maifata called for an upward review of the revenue accruing to the 774 councils, citing the need for them to comfortably pay the new minimum wage when approved. He also emphasized that reviewing the sharing formula would enable councils to embark on infrastructural development and address security and other challenges plaguing rural communities.
The ALGON boss’s remarks signal a positive step towards strengthening local government administration in Nigeria, which is crucial for national development. As the country looks forward to a brighter future, the harmonious working relationship between council chairmen and governors will be instrumental in achieving this goal.
