Speaker Abbas Blames Underdevelopment Of LGAs On Inadequate Funding 

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Tajudeen Abbas says inadequate funding remains one of the most significant obstacles in developing Local Government Areas in Nigeria.

He said that Local governments often operate on budgets that are insufficient to meet their responsibilities.

Mr. Abbas made the comments at the National Dialogue On Local Government Reforms and Constitutional Amendment organised by the House Committee on Constitutional Review, held in Abuja.

“This financial constraint limits their ability to deliver essential services such as education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and sanitation. As a result, many communities continue to suffer from poor living conditions and lack access to basic amenities.

“Moreover, the lack of autonomy is another critical issue facing local governments in Nigeria. The current structure often places local administrations under the control of state governments, which can lead to interference in their operations and decision-making processes. This lack of independence stifles innovation and accountability at the local level.

“Additionally, insufficient capacity, both in terms of human resources and institutional frameworks—has hindered effective governance at the local level. Many local government officials lack the necessary training and skills required for efficient administration. This gap not only affects service delivery but also erodes public trust in local governance“.Mr Abbas said.

Elecruon Quality

He also noted that one of the most pressing issues the National Assembly has to deal with, is the poor quality of elections into local government councils across our states.

“This situation not only undermines the very essence of democracy but also raises serious concerns about the integrity and functionality of our local governance structures.

“When elections are characterized by a lack of competitiveness—wherein the ruling party sweeps all positions—it becomes evident that we are witnessing a mockery of democratic principles. This scenario is not merely an embarrassment; it poses a significant threat to our democracy. It fosters an environment where undesirable elements infiltrate these councils, often lacking the necessary capacity and vision to govern effectively,” he said.

The Speaker acknowledged and appreciated the recent efforts made by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in strengthening the local government system.

“The recent Supreme Court judgment mandating the conduct of elections into the councils and direct disbursement of funds to them, has provided a significant legal framework that supports the autonomy and functionality of local governments across the country. This landmark decision is a testament to our collective commitment to uphold democratic principles at all levels of governance,” he said.

Comprehensive Reforms 

noted that while the House celebrates the advancements, it must also acknowledge that the need for comprehensive reform has never been more urgent as some of the nagging issues still persist.

“Constitutional reforms are essential to address these challenges comprehensively. We must advocate for greater financial autonomy for local governments by ensuring that they receive adequate funding directly from federal allocations without excessive state control. Additionally, we should explore mechanisms that empower local governments with more decision-making authority over their affairs.

“Today’s dialogue focuses on a critical aspect of our governance structure: the local government system. Local governments are often referred to as the closest tier of government to the people. They play an essential role in delivering services, fostering community development, and ensuring that citizens’ voices are heard at all levels of governance.

“However, for local governments to fulfil these roles effectively, they must operate with a degree of autonomy that allows them to respond promptly and appropriately to the unique needs of their communities.

“Sadly, in spite of the noble intentions of the drafters of our constitution in instituting the local government system, it is evident that there are significant challenges that hinder their effectiveness. Issues such as inadequate funding, lack of autonomy, insufficient capacity, usurpation of its functions by other levels of government, corruption, and many more, have plagued local governments for decades. These challenges not only stifle local governance but also impede national development. The need for reform has never been more urgent” Mr Abass added.

The Deputy Speaker of the House and Chairman Constitution Review Committee, Mr. Benjamin Kalu, said that the convening exemplifies the importance of collaboration and dialogue in addressing national challenges.

He said that the Local governments, as the closest tier of government to the citizens, are pivotal in ensuring the delivery of essential services, ensuring inclusion, and enhancing democratic participation.

“Today, we convene not only to discuss a critical aspect of governance but also to reaffirm our collective commitment to advancing democratic principles and sustainable development at the grassroots level. However, as we are all acutely aware, the current state of local government councils and areas in Nigeria leaves much to be desired. Issues of limited autonomy, constrained financial independence, and weakened administrative capacity have continued to hinder their effectiveness.

” The recent Supreme Court judgment reaffirming that local government councils and areas must be democratically elected and that their statutory allocations be paid directly to them marks a watershed moment in our nation’s governance journey. This ruling underscores the importance of ensuring that governance at all levels adheres to democratic principles and serves the people’s best interests. Yet, to fully realize the intent and impact of this landmark decision, we must confront the systemic issues that have long plagued local government administration”. Mr. Kalu said.

Tastk Ahead

noted that the task before the committee is both ambitious and achievable, ” to chart a clear and actionable path toward local government autonomy. This requires us to reimagine the role of local governments as independent and effective partners in Nigeria’s governance structure”.

He also said that the focus areas for the dialogue ranges from financial and administrative autonomy to constitutional amendments.

“As lawmakers, we have a unique role and responsibility in this reform process. The Constitution Review Committee of the House of Representatives has been at the forefront of efforts to address critical governance challenges, including the urgent need for local government reforms. Our recent engagements with key stakeholders, such as the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures, reflect firm commitment to building consensus and driving meaningful constitutional amendments.

“However, this national dialogue offers us an invaluable opportunity to deepen our understanding, align our strategies, and

build a coalition of stakeholders who will champion this cause at every level”. He added.

Participants at the Dialogue pointed out that investing in capacity building for local government officials was paramount.

 

Confidence Okwuchi