LG Autonomy: Over 30 States Conduct LG Elections – ALGON

ALGON also commended the governors for allowing local councils to operate without interference, emphasizing that this autonomy has facilitated the delivery of democratic dividends to the grassroots.

Abuja, Nigeria – The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) has disclosed that over 30 states in Nigeria have conducted elections for Local Government councils, following the Supreme Court’s ruling granting financial autonomy to local governments nationwide.

ALGON revealed this in a communiqué issued on Tuesday after its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held at the Hillside Royal Hotel in Katsina State on December 14, 2024. The meeting was described as a significant step toward strengthening local governance across the country.

The association commended President Bola Tinubu for his continued support in empowering local governments to execute their constitutional mandates effectively. ALGON also praised the judiciary for its role in ensuring the establishment of a functional local government system that aligns with the will of the Nigerian people.

Acknowledging the contributions of state governors and the Nigeria Governors Forum, ALGON noted that over 30 states now have democratically elected local government chairmen, a development it described as a major milestone. It urged the remaining states to conduct their local government elections to fully implement a people-oriented governance system in line with the President’s vision.

“The NEC appreciated the efforts of state governors and the Nigeria Governors Forum in conducting elections across local government areas, with over 30 states now having democratically elected chairmen. The remaining states are hereby urged to follow suit to establish a system that is fully people-oriented, in line with the vision of Mr. President,” the communiqué stated.

ALGON also commended the governors for allowing local councils to operate without interference, emphasizing that this autonomy has facilitated the delivery of democratic dividends to the grassroots.

The association assured governors of its continued collaboration to ensure governance at all levels remains people-centered. It further pledged to deepen its relationship with stakeholders through transparency, accountability, and innovative service delivery.

In its resolutions, the NEC reiterated its commitment to promoting open governance through effective communication and community engagement, which it described as the foundation for sustainable grassroots development.