Tinubu Reassures Governors: No Plan to Take Over LGs, Urges Focus on Grassroots Development

President Tinubu assures state governors that local governments remain under their jurisdiction while calling for strategic grassroots development to uplift communities.

President Bola Tinubu has instructed the 36 state governors to spearhead grassroots development, emphasizing that granting financial autonomy to local governments is not intended to undermine or transfer control from the governors over this third tier of government.

The President stated that the role of governors at the subnational level is crucial for ensuring food security, economic prosperity, and swift national development.

Tinubu made this statement on Wednesday during a New Year visit from the members of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), led by Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazak, at his residence in Ikoyi, Lagos.

The President emphasized the significance of grassroots development and dismissed rumors about any disagreements with the governors.

We will not fight among ourselves. I am committed to leading the change, while you manage your local governments. By successfully meeting the expectations of people at the grassroots level, you can revitalize hope in our communities.

“There were rumors suggesting disagreements over local government autonomy. That’s not the case. Our goal is to drive development at the local level, and no one intends to take that away from you. We need collaboration for mutual progress. Let’s work together to ensure a better future for Nigeria,” Tinubu stated, as reported in a statement by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga.

Tinubu emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation between federal and state governments to tackle urgent issues such as local government autonomy, boosting agricultural productivity, and maintaining currency stability.

President Tinubu called on governors to focus on advancing agriculture as a route to achieving economic stability.

You play a crucial role in Nigeria’s prosperity and development. While the Federal Government receives about 30 to 35 percent of allocated revenue, the majority goes to you. The success of the agricultural value chain is reliant on your efforts; you possess both the land and responsibility for this important work.

“We need to put in more effort, expand further, and improve the state of our currency. Nigeria will achieve prosperity, but it demands consistent dedication from each one of us,” he stated.

Kwara State’s governor, who also serves as the chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum, assured the President that he has the governors’ support.

“I have to admit that although I haven’t spent two years in this administration, I’ve completed more projects within these two years than during the entire four-year span of my first term,” stated Governor Abdulrazaq.

“The restructuring of the economy is resulting in increased funding for us. Although inflation exists, we are managing to overcome it,” stated the governor.