The Principal Special Assistant to the Governor of Adamawa State, Japheth Gajere, has said that the autonomy granted to Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Nigeria is yielding tangible economic growth and development at the grassroots level, especially in Adamawa State.
Speaking to journalists in Yola, Gajere commended Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for taking the lead in granting full autonomy to the 21 LGAs in Adamawa State ahead of the Federal Government’s directive.
He noted that this move has empowered the local councils to execute numerous developmental projects independently.
“Whatever allocation is due to the LGAs goes directly to them. This has enabled the councils to embark on more projects than ever before,” Gajere stated.
According to him, each of the 21 LGAs in the state now boasts of model schools constructed with millions of naira — an achievement he described as unprecedented.
“These are the kinds of projects never seen before at the local government level. They are fully initiated, funded, and completed by the councils,” he emphasised.
Gajere further revealed that most of the newly built schools are expected to begin enrolling students by September, underscoring the progress made by the local councils.
He also praised Governor Fintiri’s leadership and vision, describing him as a development-focused leader with a genuine interest in the well-being of the people.
According to him, the Governor holds regular meetings with Local Government Chairmen, during which he encourages them to initiate and implement legacy projects that will have lasting impacts on their communities.
“The local governments in Adamawa State have reached a point where they can independently conceive and implement development projects that reflect the unique needs of their communities,” Gajere said.
On governance and accountability, Gajere noted that all local government activities are carried out in line with constitutional provisions and relevant state laws.
“They operate within the legal frameworks provided by the Nigerian Constitution and the bylaws enacted by the Adamawa State House of Assembly,” he added.
He stressed that autonomy does not mean a lack of oversight, but rather, it allows the LGAs to function freely while being responsive to the needs of their communities.
“The developmental needs vary from one local government to another, and this autonomy ensures that projects are tailored to specific community demands,” Gajere concluded.
Adamawa State’s early adoption of LGA autonomy has become a reference point for other states seeking to drive grassroots development through decentralisation.