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Abbas identifies corruption, autonomy as major challenges crippling local councils

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The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has emphasized the urgent need for local government administration reforms in Nigeria.

He said the current state of local governments in the country is plagued by significant challenges, including inadequate funding, lack of autonomy, insufficient capacity, and corruption.

Speaking at a national dialogue on local government and constitution amendment in Abuja on Monday, the speaker noted that local governments play a crucial role in delivering services, fostering community development, and ensuring that citizens’ voices are heard at all levels of governance.

He said: “Local governments are often referred to as the closest tier of government to the people.

“However, for local governments to fulfill these roles effectively, they must operate with a degree of autonomy that allows them to respond promptly and appropriately to the unique needs of their communities.”

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He identified inadequate funding as one of the most significant obstacles facing local governments in Nigeria.

“Local governments often operate on budgets that are insufficient to meet their responsibilities,” he said. “This financial constraint limits their ability to deliver essential services such as education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and sanitation.”

Speaker Abbas also emphasized the need for greater autonomy for local governments, citing the current structure that places local administrations under the control of state governments.

“This lack of independence stifles innovation and accountability at the local level,” he added.

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