Key Points from our X Space Discussion on Local Government Adminstration and Accountability.

An Overview of our X Space Discussion on Local Government Governance

Date: 29^th August, 2025 X: @FTransparencyNG

Our recent X Space discussion brought together the following Guest Speakers: M.A Iliasu – Strategic Communication Officer, CeFTPI, Godwin O. Elaigwu Esq – Principle Partner, Godwin O. And Elaigwu Chambers and Abdulkareem O. Abdullateef – Executive Director, Saving African Youths Dream Initiative (SAYDi) to converse on what makes an effective administration in Local Governments. This was centered on Supreme Court’s ruling on Local Government Autonomy and its effects on societal development so far.

Key Points from the Discussions

• Local Governments struggle with accountability because of power imbalance; overbearing control of state governments and limited oversight organizations. The Supreme Court’s ruling marks a turning point towards accountability and reform, ensuring that local government administrations are answerable to the citizens.
• Direct Allocation of funds as ordered by the Supreme Court is a landmark as Local Governments will have more control over local revenue, staff recruitment and project execution. This will enhance fiscal transparency and independent auditing at the grassroot level.
• Political influence has been the most significant barrier in Local Government Governance highlighting the delays in fund disbursement as well as appointment of local government leaders and enforcement of the ruling will eliminate this barrier. However, more civil society organizations should be engaged.
• Local Government Autonomy reinforces the role of citizens as active stakeholders in governance, empowers them to directly monitor and influence how resources are managed at the local level and are encouraged to hold their leaders accountable. Increased citizen engagement improves decision making, improved sense of ownership and wellbeing, enhances transparency and accountability and builds trust.

The Supreme Court’s ruling on Local Government Autonomy will be the foundation of grassroot development if implemented.