The Nigerian Senate is considering a Bill to make the Local Government monthly allocations public. According to the Senate, the move is to ensure fiscal accountability and transparency in Local Government administration in Nigeria.
The Bill, tagged Local Government Fiscal Accountability Bill 2024, sponsored by Senator Saliu Mustapha (APC – Kwara Central) was passed for first reading on Tuesday before the Senate went on annual vacation.
The Bill, among other things, mandates the publication of monthly allocations to all Local Government Areas from the Federation Account.
While presenting the Bill, Senator Mustapha highlighted the importance of the proposed law in fostering public trust and confidence in Local Government operations.
He said: “Transparency in Local Government finances will lead to more effective and rapid development in rural areas. And would also help curb rural-urban migration.”
Describing Local Governments as the closest arm of government to the people, Mustapha stated that the need to making their revenues public. He stressed that it would help to drive development and accountability and the grass root level.
He said, “Local Government Chairmen do not have constitutional immunity. By publishing their revenues, we encourage them to utilize funds wisely and effectively.
“The objective of this Bill is to promote transparency and accountability in Local Government administration. This is by mandating the publication of monthly allocations to all Local Government Areas from the Federation Account. By doing so, we aim to foster public trust and confidence in Local Government administrations.
“As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture Production Services and Rural Development, my intention is to motivate Local Government administrations to develop rural areas which is a key focus of mine. I am confident that this Bill will achieve its intended purpose and contribute to the growth and development of our nation.”
source: The Nation
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