FG vows to protect Local Government autonomy
The Federal Government has pledged to uphold the autonomy of local government councils across the country, following a recent Supreme Court ruling affirming their political and financial independence.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this commitment on Friday while hosting members of the National Forum of Ex-Councilors of Nigeria at his office in Abuja.
Idris emphasized that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is dedicated to strengthening the third tier of government to ensure that development reaches grassroots communities.
“The local government is the closest level of government to the people,” he said. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as a firm believer in democracy, is committed to empowering local councils to deliver real development at the grassroots.”
He described the Supreme Court ruling—which followed a suit filed by the Attorney-General of the Federation—as both a legal and moral victory for democracy.
“We will not allow local governments to be weakened,” Idris stated. “This ruling is a turning point, and we must work with state governors to restore the full functionality of local councils as envisioned by the Constitution.”
The minister also commended the National Forum of Ex-Councilors for their continued role in grassroots advocacy and democratic stability, noting the group’s over 70,000 members nationwide.
“Since 1999, your organization has played a vital role in connecting the people with government. You remain an important voice in our democratic journey,” he said.
Addressing economic challenges, Idris reassured the group that the Tinubu administration’s ongoing reforms, though difficult, are necessary for long-term growth.
“Economic indicators and global analysts now agree that Nigeria is rebounding. We are laying the groundwork for a more stable and prosperous future,” he noted.
He urged the ex-councilors to support the administration by helping to explain government policies and programs to citizens at the grassroots level.
Earlier in the meeting, President of the Forum, Hon. Ismail Munir, presented Idris with a Special Recognition Award for People-Oriented Service Delivery.
Munir praised the minister for revitalizing key public institutions, including Radio Nigeria, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Voice of Nigeria (VON), and the National Orientation Agency (NOA).
“We’ve monitored your performance and found your efforts commendable. You are a shining example of dedicated public service,” Munir said, reaffirming the group’s continued support for democracy and national unity.
