The House of Representatives has approved a bill. The bill seeks to increase the number of local government areas (LGAs) in Lagos State from 20 to 57. This move aims to accommodate the state’s 37 Development Area Councils as full-fledged LGAs.
The proposed legislation has a title. It is “A Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999.” It was sponsored by several lawmakers, including Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, Hon. Babajimi Benson, and Hon. Enitan Dolapo Badru.
If passed into law, this bill will increase Lagos’ LGAs. It will also bring the total number of local governments in Nigeria to 811 from 774. Additionally, Lagos will surpass Kano and Katsina states. They currently have 44 and 34 LGAs, respectively. Lagos will have the highest number of local governments in the country.
This development is expected to enhance local governance, promote accountability, and lead to more tailored community development.
However, some critics have raised concerns about potential administrative inefficiencies and the fiscal burden that such an expansion could impose. Others have questioned whether the benefits of decentralization will ultimately outweigh the costs.
Despite these concerns, proponents of the bill argue that recognizing these development councils as LGAs will improve governance. It will also enhance revenue allocation and address the specific needs of Lagos’ diverse communities.
The bill’s approval is expected to rekindle debates on state creation and resource allocation. Other states may seek similar constitutional amendments to accommodate their development area councils. The bill will now proceed to the Senate. It must undergo further legislative processes. Then, the President can sign it into law.
Lagos State is the economic hub of Nigeria. This move could potentially impact the state’s economic development. It might also affect its governance structure. The increase in LGAs could also lead to more representation and a stronger voice for Lagos State in the country’s governance.