Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has called on local governments to take full advantage of their financial autonomy to improve service delivery at the grassroots level.
Speaking through his Chief of Staff, Oyeniyi Adebayo, at a three-day seminar organised by the Ministry of Local Government Affairs and Sunstone Place Management Consultants, Oyebanji described local governments as key drivers of development under Nigeria’s federal system.
The seminar, themed “Local Government Autonomy: Repositioning for Effective Service Delivery,” was designed to equip council executives, legislators, and senior officials with insights on regulatory frameworks, financial management, and practical governance strategies.
Oyebanji emphasised that local governments are best positioned to respond to community needs but have often been hindered by financial and operational constraints.
He stressed that true financial autonomy would empower councils to manage resources effectively, set local priorities, and strengthen accountability.
“Autonomy is not just a legal provision — it is essential for effective governance,” he said.
“When councils control their finances, they can make decisions that directly reflect the needs of their people.”
Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Folorunso Olabode, echoed the governor’s stance, highlighting the importance of grassroots-led development.
He praised Oyebanji for promoting a bottom-up approach to governance.
State Head of Service, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, encouraged participants to view the training as an opportunity for reform and performance improvement across councils.
Also speaking, Ekiti State Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Oluwasegun Ojo, commended the state government for supporting local councils.
He noted that capacity building is critical to closing gaps in governance and ensuring efficient service delivery.