@ katsina times
The Katsina State Government made a remarkable showing at the 5th Annual/Delegate Conference of the Forum of Heads of Local Government Administration in Nigeria (FOHOLGAN) held in Abuja, where the state’s delegation not only participated actively but also received special recognition awards for its contributions to strengthening local governance across the country.
The high-profile delegation included the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Bashir Tanimu, and the Special Adviser on Chieftaincy Affairs, Usman Abba Jaye.
FOHOLGAN’s National President, Alhaji Abdulrahman Marafa, used the occasion to renew the call for full financial autonomy for local governments, noting that despite the Supreme Court judgment, many states still obstruct direct funding to LGAs.
He emphasized that each tier of government must operate independently, arguing that fully empowered local governments are better positioned to deliver essential services at the grassroots.
Katsina State was among the states honoured for its commitment to improving local administration and enhancing coordination between state and local government structures. While receiving the award on behalf of the Katsina delegation, Chief of Staff Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir expressed deep appreciation to FOHOLGAN and reaffirmed the state’s dedication to advancing reforms that strengthen local governance.
“This recognition is a testament to Governor Dikko Umaru Radda unwavering dedication to strengthening grassroots governance,” Nasir said.
“In Katsina, we believe that strong, autonomous local governments are the backbone of community development. This award motivates us to continue supporting policies that promote accountability, professionalism, and genuine service delivery at the local level.”
Nasir further commended FOHOLGAN for sustaining a national platform that champions the interests and progress of local governments, adding that Katsina State will remain a steadfast partner in advancing administrative excellence and inclusive development.
Also speaking at the conference, the Osun State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Dosu Babatunde, condemned the widespread delays in the release of LGA funds nationwide.
He urged strict compliance with the Supreme Court judgment, insisting that financial autonomy is critical for transforming communities.
Several awards were also presented to others outstanding local government officials from across Nigeria. Responding on behalf of the national awardees, Mr. Christopher Maikalangu, Chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (represented by his Vice Chairman, Nasir Umar), thanked FOHOLGAN for the recognition and highlighted major projects executed in his council, including roads, schools, and vital community infrastructure.
The conference brought together key stakeholders, technocrats, and administrators from the 774 local governments across the federation, all focused on advancing professionalism, service delivery, and administrative efficiency within Nigeria’s local government system.
