FG reiterates commitment towards local government autonomy
Jacinta Nwachukwu
The Minister of Special Duties and Inter – Governmental Affairs, Zaphaniah Jisalo on Tuesday reiterated his commitment to ensure Local Government autonomy to enhance grass root development.
Jisalo expressed the commitment during the annual conference of functionaries and key actors in local government administration in Abuja.
The theme of the conference is “The Trajectory of Local Government Administration in Nigeria and the Institutional Challenges.”
He said the Ministry would continue to implement programmes that would eradicate poverty, create job opportunities and food security for the development of the citizens.
In his book titled “The Journey so Far” the minister envisioned a future for the ministry characterised by impactful and sustainable development.
According to Jisalo, the Ministry is poised to play a pivotal role in realising the government’s broader goals, contributing significantly to the socio-economic growth of the nation.
Similarly, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs Ibiene Roberts said the local government administration was the closest level of government to the people, and had a direct impact on their lives and well-being.
Roberts also said that the minister had submitted a memorandum to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) proposing the establishment of the National Council of Special Duties and Inter- Governmental Affairs (NCSDIGA).
“It is the foundation upon which the progress and prosperity of our nation are built.
“This theme is not only timely but also pertinent, as it reflects the core mandate of our Ministry, which is to facilitate inter – governmental relations, ensure effective implementation of special projects and programmes.
“And coordinate activities between the federal, state, and local governments,” she said.
On his part, the Chairman, House Committee on Special Duties, Rep. Tukura Ibrahim while commending the ministry for the achievements so far, said local government administration is a very important arm of the government.
Ibrahim said there was need for the autonomy of the local government to enable the administrators make the right decisions, saying that lack of adequate funds was its major challenge.
He urged the local government administrators to look beyond their appropriations and build the capacity of their workers. (NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)
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Edited by Razak Owolabi
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