Local Govts Remain Under State, University Don Affirms as Kwara Trains Administrators

LG Administrators Remain Under State Control, University Don Affirms as Kwara Trains Admins

Professor Hassan Saliu, a political science professor from the University of Ilorin, has reminded the newly elected Local Government administrators in Kwara State that they remain under the authority of the state government, emphasizing the need for financial prudence.

Saliu, who was the lead speaker at the four-day capacity building training organized by the Kwara State Government for the newly elected Local Government Chairmen and Vice Chairmen, stressed the importance of financial responsibility in their new roles as local executives.

The workshop aimed to equip the newly elected officials with the necessary skills and knowledge for effective governance at the grassroots level.

Addressing the participants, Professor Saliu stated, “It becomes imperative for the new Chairmen and Vice Chairmen to understand what federalism and democracy are because they are going to operate under this system. They have to know their realities, moderate their expectations, and know the kind of promises they make to their people.”

He also shed light on the evolving nature of financial autonomy for local governments in Nigeria, noting that the concept remains unclear in the current context.

It is worth noting that the Supreme Court recently ruled in favor of financial autonomy for the 774 Local Government Areas in the country.

Professor Saliu highlighted three key factors the new administrators must consider: the vision and mission of the ruling APC government, the complexities surrounding autonomy, and their continued subordination to the state government.

“Secondly, autonomy has been granted, but there are still some cobwebs surrounding the issue of autonomy,” Saliu said. “So, it is not as if you get into the office and think the rain of autonomy will just be falling on you. You are still under the state government, and you should be clear about that. There are still certain issues that need to be cleared regarding the full and effective implementation of autonomy. You need to understand all the issues.”

He further remarked on the development Kwara State has experienced since its creation in May 1967, with particular progress under the current administration, citing infrastructure development, peaceful coexistence, religious harmony, and political visibility as key achievements.

Participants at the training pledged to work diligently to improve the lives of people at the grassroots level.