President Bola Tinubu has emphasized the significance of effective local government administration, highlighting its absence as a major obstacle to Nigeria’s progress.
He praised the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the financial autonomy of local governments, aligning with the Constitution’s intent.
In a statement, he stressed the importance of robust local governance, likening it to the foundational “cellular level” of the country’s socio-political structure.
By acknowledging the critical role of local governments, President Tinubu demonstrates his commitment to empowering them to drive development and prosperity nationwide.
The President emphasises that the onus is now on local council leaders to ensure that the broad spectrum of Nigerians living at that level are satisfied that they are benefitting from people-oriented service delivery.
“The Renewed Hope Agenda is about the people of this country, at all levels, irrespective of faith, tribe, gender, political affiliation, or any other artificial line they say exists between us. This country belongs to all of us.
“By virtue of this judgement, our people – especially the poor – will be able to hold their local leaders to account for their actions and inactions. What is sent to local government accounts will be known, and services must now be provided without excuses.
“My administration instituted this suit because of our unwavering belief that our people must have relief and today’s judgement will ensure that it will be only those local officials elected by the people that will control the resources of the people.
“This judgement stands as a resounding affirmation that we can use legitimate means of redress to restructure our country and restructure our economy to make Nigeria a better place to live in and a fairer society for all of our people,” he states.
President Tinubu notes that the provision of some essential amenities and public goods, such as the construction and maintenance of certain roads, streets, street lighting, drains, parks, gardens, open spaces, and other residual responsibilities, including community security, has tottered owing to the emasculation of local governments.
While he applauded the Supreme Court’s landmark decision to uphold local governments’ financial autonomy and other fundamental principles as a historic milestone in strengthening Nigeria’s federal system, President Tinubu praised Attorney-General Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) for his dedication to this crucial case.
The President reiterated his administration’s commitment to upholding the constitutional principles that govern the relationships between citizens, government institutions, and tiers of government, aiming to build a efficient and effective governance system that serves all Nigerians.
This decision reinforces the federal government’s efforts to enhance the nation’s development and prosperity.
