In a significant stride towards bolstering Nigeria’s federal structure, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, CON, has inaugurated an Inter-Ministerial Committee charged with the critical task of enforcing the Supreme Court’s landmark judgment on local government autonomy. This pivotal move was announced by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his official social media X channel, this announcement underscores the administration’s commitment to empowering local governments as the third tier of government.
The Supreme Court, in its judgment delivered on July 11, 2024, unequivocally granted financial autonomy to local governments, a decision that resonates with the core principles of democracy and grassroots governance. The newly formed committee, which will be chaired by Senator Akume, includes a formidable lineup of key stakeholders, each bringing critical expertise to the table.
Members of the Committee:
Secretary to the Government of the Federation – Chairman
Hon. Minister of Finance & Coordinating Minister of the Economy – Member
Attorney General of the Federation & Minister of Justice – Member
Hon. Minister of Budget & Economic Planning – Member
Accountant General of the Federation – Member
Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria – Member
Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Finance – Member
Chairman, Revenue Mobilization Allocation & Fiscal Commission – Member
Representative of State Governors – Member
Representative of Local Governments – Member
The committee’s mandate is clear: to ensure that local governments across the nation are granted the full autonomy that the Constitution envisages, free from the financial and administrative grip of state governments. This autonomy is expected to enable local governments to function more efficiently, delivering essential services directly to the people without undue interference.
This initiative aligns seamlessly with President Tinubu’s broader vision of reinforcing federalism and ensuring that governance reaches every nook and cranny of the nation. By granting local governments the autonomy they deserve, the administration aims to foster a more responsive and accountable governance structure, empowering local leaders to address the unique needs of their communities.
The establishment of this committee represents a critical step towards the realization of a more equitable and functional federal system in Nigeria. It sends a strong message that the Tinubu administration is dedicated to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that the provisions of the Constitution are fully implemented for the benefit of all Nigerians.
Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information & Public Relations, also emphasized that the committee’s work will be closely monitored to ensure transparency and accountability in its operations, further reinforcing the administration’s commitment to good governance.
As the committee begins its work, all eyes will be on its progress, as the successful enforcement of this Supreme Court judgment has the potential to redefine the landscape of local governance in Nigeria.
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