Implement Local Government Autonomy With Caution, ALGON Boss Advises

The ALGON President urges careful implementation of local government autonomy to avoid unintended challenges and ensure smooth governance across states.

Muhammad Ambursa, the Chairman of ALGON’s Kebbi State Chapter, disclosed that several local government councils nationwide would face difficulties in paying workers’ salaries without assistance from state governments.

Speaking to journalists in his Birnin Kebbi office, Nayaya, who is also the Chairman of the Birnin Kebbi Local Government, noted that Kebbi State has not encountered major challenges regarding local government autonomy. He attributed this stability to Governor Idris’ dedication to upholding the rights and privileges of councils.

Nayaya expressed support for the nationwide implementation of local government autonomy, recognizing its potential benefits. However, he also cautioned that councils with limited resources might face financial challenges.

He explained that there is a concern about six local government councils in Kebbi facing difficulties in paying workers’ salaries without help from the state government. He emphasized, “Autonomy must be implemented with sensitivity to these realities.”

He mentioned that a recent gathering of local government chairmen in Katsina brought attention to similar issues faced by Kebbi, Katsina, Zamfara, and Sokoto states. In these areas, numerous councils are struggling with salary payments under autonomy.

Nayaya also praised Governor Idris for his dedication to infrastructure development, highlighting that funds have been allocated to all 21 local government councils in Kebbi for the reconstruction of their secretariat buildings.

He concluded by saying, “These secretariats have been transformed into modern buildings, highlighting the governor’s commitment to effective local governance and development.”