CILGPAN Demands Immediate and Full Implementation of Local Government Autonomy

The Chartered Institute of Local Government and Public Administration of Nigeria (CILGPAN) has intensified the long-running national conversation on local governance by demanding the immediate and comprehensive implementation of Local Government (LG) autonomy as enshrined in the Constitution.

The call was made by the Institute’s leadership during the induction of 369 new Fellows, Associates, and Members in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, emphasizing that the lack of true autonomy remains the biggest barrier to development at the grassroots level.

Speaking at the event, CILGPAN President, Prof. Adekunle Awotokun, represented by the Vice-President, Prof. Frederick Eze, stressed the need for professionals to drive accountability and integrity within the public service. However, the core of the message focused on the constitutional disconnect currently weakening the third tier of government.

Unlocking Grassroots Potential

In his remarks, CILGPAN’s Registrar, Dr. Uche Okereke, was more direct, asserting that Local Government autonomy is the essential missing link for national progress. “Local government autonomy remains our goal because it will unlock massive grassroots development if councils are allowed to manage their finances directly,” he stated.

This position aligns with the growing consensus among civil society and legal experts that state government interference, primarily through the State-Local Government Joint Account and the frequent dissolution of elected councils in favour of appointed caretaker committees, cripples local administration.

The Institute expressed optimism that the ongoing legislative push at the National Assembly, combined with the landmark Supreme Court ruling which affirmed the financial independence of local councils, would soon yield a truly autonomous system. They believe that with unhindered financial and administrative control, local governments will be empowered to effectively initiate and execute projects that directly benefit citizens, thereby restoring public confidence and strengthening democracy at the community level.

CILGPAN also reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with stakeholders, including the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), to continue the robust advocacy for good governance and fiscal freedom for the 774 Local Government Areas in the country.