By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has urged the 23 newly sworn-in local government chairmen to ensure that the dividends of democracy are distributed fairly across all communities, regardless of political affiliation, gender, religion, or ethnicity.
During the swearing-in ceremony at the Council Chambers at Sir Kashim Ibrahim House on Friday, Governor Sani called for transparency and accountability in the management of public finances. He reminded the chairmen that, as grassroots leaders, they are the closest representatives to the people, and their leadership must reflect inclusivity and equity.
“You are taking charge as captains of local governments with financial autonomy,” the Governor said. “Your allocations from the Federation Account will be public knowledge, which requires you to be transparent, accountable, and fair in all your dealings. Be available, accessible, and responsive to the needs of the people.”
Governor Sani emphasized that local government is the foundation of democracy, quoting Robert W. Flack: “If it fails, democracy will fail.” He called on the chairmen to prioritize key areas, including rural infrastructure, agricultural support, health centers, primary schools, economic services, and sustainable natural resource use. He further encouraged them to align with the state government’s rural transformation agenda and connect communities lacking access to state roads.
Reflecting on their campaign promises, the Governor reminded the chairmen to focus on the needs of the communities they engaged with, stressing the importance of equity, inclusivity, and responsiveness.
Governor Sani also urged the people of Kaduna State to hold their leaders accountable, participate in the budgeting process, and insist on high-quality service delivery. “People’s engagement is essential to ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficient governance at the local level,” he added.
On the sidelines of the ceremony, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, highlighted the full autonomy granted to local governments in Nigeria. He advised the chairmen to use their monthly allocations effectively to drive development in their respective councils.
