Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has expressed the urgent need for reform of local government administration in Nigeria.
Speaking in Abuja on Monday while declaring open a national dialogue on local government and constitution amendment, he said, “series of consultations to harness citizens’ views and preferences in our efforts at having a truly peoples’ constitution in the country” were ongoing.
Represented by his deputy, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, he said, “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”, adding that sadly, despite 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.
While earlier welcoming participants to the event, the Deputy Speaker, Kalu said emphasised the need for a coordinated effort among stakeholders to achieve meaningful reform in Nigeria’s local government system.
Kalu in the address delivered on his behalf by the Majority Leader of the House, Professor Julius Ihonvbere, noted that local governments play a crucial role in delivering essential services, promoting inclusion, and enhancing democratic participation.
He said: “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.
“This convening exemplifies the importance of collaboration and
dialogue in addressing national challenges. Local government, as the closest tier of government to our citizens, are pivotal in ensuring the delivery of essential services, ensuring inclusion, and enhancing democratic participation”.