Former Senator Ahmad Babba Kaita believes local governments are better positioned to drive national development due to their proximity to communities.
Hikaya Newspaper reports that in a statement on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, Kaita argued that allowing local governments to utilize their funds for national development projects and paying workers’ salaries would ensure fairness and meaningful growth.
Kaita emphasized the need for authorities to respect laws governing local government funding while also ensuring these funds are used effectively.
“It is a duty for the authorities to respect the laws of the country that require local governments to use their money, but it is also good to keep an eye on them to see that they do what they should with their money,” he stated.
Analysts suggest that this approach would promote transparency and accountability in local governance.
“Local governments in Nigeria are responsible for delivering essential services such as public health, education, and infrastructure.
“By empowering them to manage their funds, they can address specific community needs and contribute to national development,” they assured.
Kaita’s proposal aligns with the notion that local governments are more responsive to community needs, making them ideal for driving grassroots development initiatives.