On Wednesday, President Bola Tinubu assured Nigerians that his administration remains committed to local government autonomy, dispelling rumors of discord with state governors on the contentious issue. Speaking at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos during a New Year homage by Vice President Kashim Shettima and members of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), Tinubu emphasized the need for cooperation to drive grassroots development.
“There were gossips that we had disagreements on local government autonomy. No. Nobody wants to take them away from you, but we need collaboration,” the President stated.
The visit included 14 governors, among them Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Babagana Zulum (Borno), and Hope Uzodimma (Imo). Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed details of the meeting in a statement titled ‘President Tinubu to Governors: You Are the Most Important Link to Nigeria’s Development.’
Tinubu highlighted the Supreme Court’s 2024 ruling affirming fiscal autonomy for local governments, which mandates direct allocation of funds to local administrations without state interference. “We will not fight within us. I will drive the change,” he said, urging governors to ensure grassroots development.
The President also underscored the governors’ pivotal role in economic growth, especially in agriculture and food security, stressing their control over critical resources like land. “The agricultural value chain depends on you. You own the land; the job is in your hands,” he said.
Tinubu lauded the governors’ efforts in driving development, urging continued collaboration with the federal government to address issues such as currency stability and economic growth.
Reflecting on his administration’s achievements, Tinubu expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future and announced plans to visit Enugu State on January 4. He also acknowledged ThisDay newspaper’s recognition of him as Man of the Year, describing it as an endorsement of his administration’s policies.
