LG autonomy: South-West NULGE reiterates call

By Stephen Gbadamosi

The Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) on the South-West states has, again, reiterated its call for local government autonomy.

The body, in a statement issued at a recent meeting held at its secretariat in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, noted the autonomy for local governments in the country had become necessary to make service provision available to people in the grassroots.

“The Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) is steadfast in its commitment to advocating for the autonomy of local governments across Nigeria.

“Today, we stand united in our pursuit of a more empowered, efficient and accountable local government system that truly serves the people at the grassroots,” the statement, signed by Vice President General, South-West NULGE, Comrade Babalola Abimbola, argued.

“As Vice President General, South-West of NULGE, I am honoured to deliver this critical message on behalf of our great union. The call for local government autonomy is not just a demand; it is a necessity for the sustainable development and democratic deepening of our nation.

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“Local governments, being the closest and strategic tier of government to the people, are best positioned to address the immediate needs and aspirations of our communities.

“Local governments must be granted the autonomy to govern independently, free from undue interference from state governments. This empowerment will enable them to make decisions that directly reflect the needs and priorities of their communities.

“The financial autonomy of local governments is crucial. Direct allocation of funds from the Federation Account to local governments will ensure transparency, accountability and the efficient utilisation of resources for developmental projects.

“Autonomy will foster a more efficient administrative structure within local governments, reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks and enhancing service delivery to the people.

“With autonomy, local governments can better engage in participatory governance, involving community members in decision-making processes and fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility among citizens.

“Also, autonomous local governments can drive economic growth by developing local industries, improving infrastructure, and creating job opportunities, thereby reducing rural-urban migration and promoting balanced regional development.

“This is why NULGE calls on all stakeholders; traditional rulers, religious leaders, market women, students, politicians, artisans and all others, including the Federal Government, sate governments, the National Assembly, and civil society organisations, to support this cause.

“The union appreciates President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his courageous and bold steps he has taken in ensuring that this critical tier of government is adequately empowered to fulfill its mandate as it’s enshrined in the 1999 Constitution.

“We also appeal to the media to continue playing its vital role in educating and informing the public about the importance of local government autonomy.

“Public awareness and support are crucial in this advocacy, as the benefits of an autonomous local government system directly impact the everyday lives of Nigerians.

“In conclusion, NULGE remains resolute in its mission to advocate for local government autonomy. We believe that with collective effort and unwavering commitment, we can achieve a more democratic, efficient and development-oriented local government system.

“Together, we can build a brighter future for our communities and our nation,” he said.