The Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) has commended the Supreme Court for its landmark judgment granting financial autonomy to the 774 local government councils across the country.
Alhaji Aminu Muazu-Maifata, the National President of ALGON, expressed this during a news conference on Monday in Lafia. Muazu-Maifata, who is also the Chairman of Lafia Local Government Area in Nasarawa State and the ALGON chairman in the state, expressed joy over the judgment.
“We are elated by the Supreme Court’s decision,” Muazu-Maifata said. “This judgment represents a significant step toward enhancing grassroots development.”
The ALGON president also praised President Bola Tinubu and the governors of the 36 states for accepting the Supreme Court’s decision. He emphasized the importance of a harmonious working relationship between council chairmen and governors to ensure proper development at the grassroots.
Muazu-Maifata noted that financial autonomy would motivate council chairmen to intensify their efforts in delivering democratic dividends to the grassroots.
“We understand there are high expectations from us under this new arrangement where our funds will come directly from the Federal Government,” he said. “Expectations will come from our people, our governors, and even the president, who is passionate about rural development.”
The ALGON leader called for an upward review of the revenue accruing to the 774 councils to enable them to pay the new minimum wage when approved.
“Reviewing the revenue sharing formula will empower the councils to embark on infrastructural development and address security and other challenges in rural communities,” he explained. “It will also help us create more job opportunities and provide an enabling environment for lawful businesses without fear of attack or intimidation.”
According to reports, on July 11, the Supreme Court granted financial autonomy to the local government councils. The court ordered the federal government to immediately commence direct payment of local government funds to area councils.
