The Nigerian Presidency has confirmed that by the end of January, all local government areas (LGAs) nationwide will begin receiving their federal allocations directly from the Federal Allocation Account Committee (FAAC). This move is aimed at strengthening local government autonomy and ensuring financial transparency. Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, disclosed this during an interview on Arise News on Thursday night. He emphasized President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to upholding the Supreme Court’s landmark July 2024 judgment, which declared state control over local government funds unconstitutional. Supreme Court Ruling on Local Government Autonomy In July 2024, the Supreme Court, led by Justice Emmanuel Agbim, ruled that federal allocations to LGAs should be paid either directly or through state governments. However, due to inefficiencies in the latter method, the court mandated direct payments to local councils. This decision followed a legal suit filed by the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), advocating for the financial independence of Nigeria’s 774 local governments. Although implementation faced initial delays to establish proper mechanisms, the Presidency has now confirmed that everything is in place for the rollout. Increased Revenue for Local Governments Sunday Dare provided a practical example of how this change will impact local councils. He quoted a local government chairman who said, “I will be getting N2.9 billion directly instead of the N200 million I used to receive.” This highlights the significant financial boost local governments will experience under the new system. Starting at the end of January, these funds will flow directly to LGAs, marking a new era of financial autonomy and accountability for grassroots governance. The Call for Financial Accountability Dare also raised concerns about the financial management of both state and local governments. He noted that some states have received record-breaking allocations yet lack visible developmental achievements. For example, he revealed, “One state collected N499 billion last year—nearly four times its previous allocation—but there’s little to show for it.” He urged citizens and watchdog organizations to scrutinize how resources are utilized at all levels of government. “The framers of our constitution created the three tiers of government for a reason. It’s time to hold states and local governments accountable,” Dare stated. Implications for Governance and Development This policy shift aligns with the Federal Government’s broader goal of decentralizing power and improving governance at the grassroots level. With direct federal allocations, local governments are better positioned to invest in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other essential services. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged state governors to prioritize development in their local government areas, emphasizing their crucial role in driving progress at the grassroots level. During a meeting with members of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) at his residence in Ikoyi, Lagos, on January 1, Tinubu encouraged stronger collaboration between federal and state governments to address pressing challenges. “You own the land, and the responsibility lies in your hands. Focus on developing the local governments. Nobody wants to take them from you, but collaboration is essential,” Tinubu stated. The President highlighted that leadership at the subnational level is central to achieving food security, economic stability, and accelerated national growth. He reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing local government autonomy, a cornerstone for sustainable grassroots development, while dismissing rumors of disagreements with the governors over this issue. “We won’t fight amongst ourselves. I am here to drive change, and you control your local governments. By fulfilling grassroots expectations effectively, we can restore hope,” Tinubu affirmed, adding that cooperation between all levels of government will ensure Nigeria’s progress. Tinubu also called on governors to prioritize agricultural productivity, noting that it holds the key to stabilizing the economy and improving the nation’s currency value. “We must work harder, grow more, and ensure the improvement of our currency. Nigeria will achieve prosperity through consistent effort,” he said. Commending the governors for ongoing progress in their states, Tinubu expressed pride in their developmental strides, stating, “There’s no state we cannot visit and feel proud of. Better allocations are available now—let me handle the criticism while you enjoy the benefits. Together, we’ll build a nation we can all take pride in.” Reflecting on his leadership journey over the past 19 months, Tinubu expressed confidence in the resilience of the nation and the capacity of his administration to lead Nigeria to greater heights. He also announced his planned visit to Enugu State on January 4 as part of his tour across the country. In response, NGF Chairman and Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrahman Abdulrazak, reassured the President of the governors’ unwavering support, particularly in enhancing local security efforts. He also highlighted the impact of increased economic restructuring, noting, “In less than two years, I’ve accomplished more projects than I did in four years of my first term, thanks to improved funding. While inflation persists, we’re making progress.” READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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President Bola Tinubu dispels rumors of conflict with governors over local government autonomy, emphasizing collaboration for Nigeria’s prosperity and development. President Bola Tinubu has refuted claims of disagreements with Nigerian governors regarding local government autonomy, emphasizing the importance of their collaboration in driving national development. Speaking during a New Year homage at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos, President Tinubu addressed Vice President Kashim Shettima and members of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF). He highlighted the pivotal role governors play in fostering economic growth, food security, and national prosperity. Governors as the Backbone of National Development President Tinubu stressed that state governors are the most critical link to achieving grassroots development, as the federal government only accounts for 30–35% of allocated revenue. “The agricultural value chain depends on you. You own the land, and the job is in your hands,” he stated. He urged stronger federal-state collaboration to address pressing issues, including local government autonomy, agricultural productivity, and currency stability. Commitment to Local Government Autonomy Dispelling rumors of conflict with the governors, Tinubu reiterated his support for local government development. “We will not fight within us. Nobody wants to take local governments away from you. Let’s collaborate to ensure Nigeria is better off for it,” he said. Focus on Agricultural Growth and Economic Stability Highlighting agriculture as a cornerstone of economic stability, President Tinubu encouraged governors to prioritize agricultural productivity and address currency challenges. “We have to work harder, grow more, and ensure the situation of our currency improves. Nigeria will see prosperity, but it requires consistent effort from all of us,” he noted. Acknowledging Progress and Resilience President Tinubu commended the governors for their achievements across various states, expressing pride in their collective progress. Reflecting on his 19 months in office, he shared optimism about Nigeria’s capacity to thrive under resilient leadership. “I am glad I asked for this job, and Nigerians gave me the mandate. We’ll be on this voyage together,” he said, adding that he plans to visit Enugu State on January 4 as part of his nationwide tour. Tinubu Named “Man of the Year” The President welcomed his recognition by ThisDay newspaper as Man of the Year, calling it an acknowledgment of the administration’s progress. Kwara State Governor and NGF Chairman Abdulrahman Abdulrazak lauded the recognition, citing significant policy successes in agriculture and economic restructuring. “The policies are working. In Jigawa, there was a bumper harvest, and traders exported the produce due to the currency strength,” Abdulrazak explained. He added that governors are working to enhance food security and support national economic policies. Strengthening Security and Development Governor Abdulrazak assured Tinubu of the governors’ unwavering support, particularly in bolstering local security frameworks to improve national safety. “We are getting more funding due to the restructuring of the economy. Yes, there is inflation, but we are overriding it,” he added. President Tinubu concluded by reaffirming his commitment to collaborative governance, ensuring that Nigeria continues on the path of progress and stability. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Meeting Nigeria’s Leaders Since 1992Since 1992, I’ve had the privilege of meeting every Nigerian leader one-on-one, except General Sani Abacha. My experiences range from private interviews to a live group media chat with former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Each encounter has been unique, but interviewing Obasanjo stands out as a particularly unpredictable challenge. In 2004, during an untelevised interview in his Library at the Presidential Villa, I faced Obasanjo’s wrath for questioning his government’s handling of Chris Uba’s political escapades in Anambra State. It took the intervention of his aides to diffuse the tension and save me from a physical altercation. Handling OPC Questions on AirA similar heated moment occurred during a live media chat when I asked why he ordered a shoot-on-sight directive against the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC). Obasanjo’s fiery response was swift, accusing me of irreverence and warning me not to bring my column’s boldness to the Villa. He retorted, “If you’re a member of OPC, tell your people that I mean what I said!” Three Presidents, Three StylesOver the years, my interviews with subsequent presidents showcased distinct leadership styles: A 2016 interview with Buhari brought out his animated side when I probed his ousting by Babangida, which inspired a headline-grabbing story in The Interview magazine. Tinubu’s Path to an InterviewSecuring a televised interview with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was a journey. Despite pressure from insiders, Tinubu avoided media engagements for 19 months into his presidency, citing the need to prioritize governance. A near-interview was canceled during the #EndBadGovernance protests in October. On December 18, I was invited to join a seven-member panel for the interview. Though we preferred a live format to foster transparency and spontaneity, the president opted for a recorded session, which ultimately aired as a 90-minute broadcast. Panel Insights and Unanswered QuestionsThe panel, which included prominent journalists like Dr. Reuben Abati and Maupe Ogun-Yusuf, prepared 20 questions and covered most of them during the session. However, some intriguing topics, such as Nyesom Wike’s political liabilities, local government funding, and the president’s assets declaration, didn’t make it to the broadcast. Tinubu’s responses were revealing. He praised Wike as a “performing minister” and explained the Supreme Court’s judgment on local government autonomy, emphasizing the constitutionality of direct funding. On state police, he predicted a negotiated solution in the nation’s interest. Regarding his asset declaration, Tinubu stated he had fulfilled his legal obligation and hinted at the possibility of publicizing it in the future. ConclusionWhile the interview wasn’t live, it offered valuable insights into Tinubu’s presidency and leadership philosophy. One interview may not satisfy the public’s curiosity, but it’s a step toward bridging the gap between Nigerians and their president. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a strong warning to officials collaborating with state governors to divert allocations meant for the country’s 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs). According to the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, criminal proceedings will be initiated against culprits, emphasizing the need to uphold financial autonomy for LGAs as mandated by a Supreme Court judgment. Enforcing Financial Autonomy for Local GovernmentsSpeaking at the 2024 Annual General Conference of the Abuja Chapter of the National Association of Judiciary Correspondents (NAJUC), the AGF highlighted the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring that local governments operate independently. He labeled the mismanagement of LGA funds by governors as both a criminal and impeachable offense. Fagbemi criticized the practice of state governors installing loyalists in LG positions through flawed elections, which undermine the principle of accountability. While the Federal Government cannot directly intervene in LGA elections, it plans to prosecute elected officials who misuse funds allocated from the federation account. Tackling Governance MismanagementFagbemi condemned the deplorable state of many LGA secretariats across the nation. He recounted instances where local governments had to seek state governors’ permission to perform basic administrative tasks, such as purchasing office supplies. He stated: “Governors have immunity, but local government officials do not. If you engage in fund mismanagement, you risk facing imprisonment.” The AGF lauded President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering stance on protecting local government autonomy despite significant pressure. Judiciary’s Role in Justice DeliveryThe conference also explored the judiciary’s responsibility in upholding justice and enforcing judgments. In a keynote address, Professor Mike Ozekhome, SAN, stressed the need for courts to prioritize fairness over technicalities. He urged judges to provide lawyers with adequate opportunities to present their cases effectively. Representing the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Mr. Abdullaziz Olumo advised journalists against sensational reporting and cautioned against “trial by media,” which could prejudice ongoing cases. Media’s Responsibility and Advocacy for ReformThe Chairman of the Abuja NAJUC Chapter, Mr. Kayode Lawal, reiterated the media’s dedication to unbiased reporting. He advocated for reforms to ensure that legal professionals compromising judicial integrity face strict consequences. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
