Katsina, (Nigeria): Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State is receiving widespread praise for advancing local government autonomy by releasing ₦11.9 billion to all 34 local government areas in the state.
The total funds released to the 34 LGAs amounted to N11.9billion.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Alhaji Ya’u Gwajo-Gwajo, made the commendation in a statement issued in Katsina on Friday.
According to Gwajo-Gwajo, the release of the funds enabled them to carry out laudable projects to enhance the welfare and well-being of their people.
He explained that the councils had recently carried out erosion control projects, as well as the renovation of primary health centres and dispensaries.
Gwajo-Gwajo further said that the councils, through the funds, had also renovated Mosques, graveyards and conducted special prayers for peace and security in the state.
The governor’s aide said, “Just recently, each local government in the state received N350 million to carry out these projects and programmes, which were meant to improve the living conditions of their people.
“For instance, each local government council received N200 million for erosion control projects to safeguard farmlands, houses and community lands against gully erosion at the start of the rainy season.
“Also, as part of the money, the local governments had earlier received N100 million each for the renovation, expansion and provision of equipment as well as medical supplies at one primary health care centre and one dispensary in each ward.
“Also, based on requests by Islamic scholars from the local governments, funds were approved for the repair of graveyards, renovation of Mosques and special prayers for sustained peace in the state.
“At least each local government received a total of N30 million for these projects.”
Gwajo-Gwajo explained that the local councils, which were troubled by insecurity, had also agreed to provide logistics and allowances for hunters and local vigilantes, as well as other expenses, to safeguard their communities.
According to him, these monies were spent by the local governments themselves, adding, “it is their money and they decide on how to spend it to improve the welfare and living conditions of their people.
“The governor always insists on due process and the Rule of Law; that is why the local governments have the autonomy to decide how to spend their money.
“They pay their salaries, running costs and overheads, and they carry out projects in healthcare, education, environment, agriculture, works and other sectors to improve the welfare and living conditions of their people.”
