Abba Yusuf Pushes for Local Government Autonomy, Moves to Empower Kano’s 44 Councils

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•••Abba Yusuf has positioned Kano State as a frontrunner in efforts to deepen democracy.

KANO, NIGERIA – The iNews Times | Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening grassroots governance, pledging his full support for a landmark bill that seeks to grant full autonomy to all 44 local government councils in the state.

Governor Abba Yusuf’s position was contained in a statement released by his spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Friday. The announcement followed the 31st meeting of the Kano State Executive Council, which Governor Yusuf presided over at the Government House Annex in Kwankwasiyya City. At the meeting, the council gave its approval for the transmission of the proposed bill to the Kano State House of Assembly for legislative consideration and passage into law.

Governor Abba Yusuf explained that the bill is designed to provide local governments with both financial and administrative independence, ensuring that they can function effectively without unnecessary interference. According to Abba Yusuf, this reform will enable councils to manage their resources directly, initiate and complete projects in a timely manner, and make decisions that reflect the specific needs and priorities of their communities.

“This step is critical for bringing government closer to the people,” Governor Abba Yusuf said. “Local governments are the first point of contact between the people and the government, and they must have the autonomy to deliver on their constitutional mandate. By granting them independence, we will ensure that development projects reach our rural and urban communities faster and with greater efficiency.”

Governor Abba Yusuf emphasized that local government autonomy is not just a policy choice but a prerequisite for good governance, transparency, and accountability. Governor Abba Yusuf maintained that empowering councils to control their finances and administration would curb delays, eliminate bureaucratic bottlenecks, and allow local leaders to directly address challenges in their respective jurisdictions.

“This reform is about building a stronger democracy,” he added. “When local governments are independent, citizens can hold them accountable for service delivery. This will foster a culture of responsibility and transparency, which is essential for sustainable development.”

Governor Abba Yusuf expressed confidence that members of the Kano State House of Assembly would give the bill the attention it deserves, describing it as a step that reflects the will and interest of the people of Kano State.

“We are optimistic that the lawmakers will support this initiative,” he said. “The autonomy of our local governments is not about politics, but about empowering communities and ensuring equitable development across the state.”

Observers and political analysts note that this development comes at a time when Nigerians are increasingly calling for reforms to strengthen governance at the grassroots level. The issue of local government autonomy has long been a contentious one, with many councils across the country complaining of limited independence due to the joint allocation system that allows state governments to control local government funds.

Supporters of the proposed reform argue that granting autonomy to councils will reduce corruption, enhance accountability, and accelerate community-driven development projects such as roads, schools, healthcare facilities, and water supply schemes.

Civil society organisations and development advocates in Kano have welcomed the governor’s announcement, describing it as a progressive step that could transform local administration in the state. They also expressed hope that other states would take similar steps to strengthen the third tier of government and promote inclusive growth.

If passed into law, the bill is expected to mark a turning point for Kano’s governance framework by empowering local governments to function as true engines of development. It will also provide citizens with a stronger voice in decision-making and ensure that government interventions are better aligned with the needs of the people.

With this bold move, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has positioned Kano State as a frontrunner in efforts to deepen democracy, strengthen grassroots participation, and deliver tangible benefits to the people.