Governor Abba Yusuf supports Kano local government councils autonomy, pushing a bill for full financial and administrative independence of 44 councils.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has once again demonstrated his administration’s commitment to grassroots development by throwing his weight behind a legislative proposal that seeks to grant full autonomy to local government councils across the state.
The governor said the initiative was designed to empower the councils with the independence they need to effectively discharge their responsibilities to the people at the grassroots.
The announcement was made during the 31st Executive Council meeting held at the Government House Annex in Kwankwasiyya City.
At the meeting, the council resolved to transmit the proposed bill to the Kano State House of Assembly for legislative consideration and possible passage into law.
In a statement signed by his spokesperson, Sanusi Bature, Governor Yusuf explained that the bill seeks to guarantee both financial and administrative independence for all 44 local government councils in Kano State.
This, he said, would enable them to take charge of their resources, embark on community-driven projects, and make independent decisions that reflect the pressing needs of their people.
According to him, “This reform will allow councils to directly manage their funds, undertake development projects without unnecessary delays, and implement policies that are responsive to local priorities.”
Governor Yusuf emphasized that local government autonomy is not merely a political slogan but a vital component of good governance and democratic deepening.
He maintained that genuine self-rule at the grassroots would guarantee accountability, transparency, and sustainable development.
The governor observed that without autonomy, councils remain weak and overly dependent on state directives, which often hinders timely project execution.
He argued that empowering councils would ensure that development spreads evenly across all communities in Kano rather than being concentrated only in urban areas.
He described the bill as a bold reform that will reposition local councils as true engines of development and restore citizens’ confidence in governance.
“The people deserve a system that works for them, especially at the community level where government presence is most needed,” he noted.
Governor Yusuf expressed confidence that members of the Kano State House of Assembly would rally behind the bill, stressing that it was not only in the interest of his administration but also in the best interest of the people.
He noted that lawmakers, being closer to their constituencies, clearly understand the yearnings of the electorate for a responsive and accountable local government system.
He therefore called on the Assembly to act swiftly, assuring that the executive arm of government was prepared to provide all necessary support to ensure the smooth passage of the bill into law.
The debate over local government autonomy is not new in Nigeria.
For decades, councils across the country have struggled with limited powers and resources due to the overbearing influence of state governments.
Despite constitutional provisions recognizing local governments as the third tier of government, their autonomy has remained largely undermined.
Many analysts believe that this lack of independence is one of the major reasons behind the slow pace of rural development, poor service delivery, and widespread disconnection between citizens and their elected representatives at the local level.
The push by Governor Yusuf for Kano local government councils autonomy therefore represents an important step in addressing these long-standing challenges.
If passed into law, the proposed bill is expected to transform how councils in Kano operate.
With financial autonomy, councils will be able to prepare and implement their own budgets, prioritize local infrastructure such as roads, markets, schools, and health centers, and respond quickly to emergencies.
Administrative autonomy will also allow them to make staffing decisions, establish policies tailored to community needs, and strengthen local accountability mechanisms.
Experts argue that when councils are given room to function independently, citizens are more likely to hold their local leaders accountable, which in turn reduces corruption and mismanagement.
For a state like Kano, which is home to one of the largest populations in Nigeria, strengthening local governments could significantly improve governance outcomes.
Governor Abba Yusuf has consistently highlighted his administration’s commitment to reforms that put people at the center of governance.
Since assuming office, he has initiated policies aimed at education, healthcare, infrastructure renewal, and poverty reduction.
His latest support for local government autonomy further aligns with his vision of ensuring that no community in Kano is left behind in the development process.
By pushing for Kano local government councils autonomy, Governor Yusuf is not only addressing immediate governance concerns but also laying the foundation for long-term democratic consolidation.
The reform, if realized, could serve as a model for other states across Nigeria grappling with similar challenges.
The move to grant full financial and administrative independence to Kano’s 44 local government councils marks a critical turning point in grassroots governance.
It signals a new era where councils may soon have the authority to act without excessive state interference and where communities can directly benefit from decisions made closer to them.
Governor Abba Yusuf’s optimism about the legislature’s cooperation underscores his belief that the people’s interests should come first.
If the Kano State House of Assembly supports the bill, it will not only redefine governance in Kano but also set a precedent for other states in Nigeria to emulate.