The Senate is currently reviewing a bill designed to enhance fiscal transparency within local government administration.
The proposed legislation, titled the “Local Government Fiscal Accountability Bill 2024 (SB, 549),” seeks to mandate the publication of monthly allocations to all local government areas from the Federation Account.
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Senator Saliu Mustapha (APC, Kwara Central), the bill’s sponsor, underscored the significance of this measure in promoting public trust and confidence in local government operations during a discussion with journalists on Thursday in Abuja.
“Transparency in local government finances will lead to more effective and rapid development in rural areas and help curb rural-urban migration,” said Senator Mustapha.
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He highlighted that local governments, being the closest tier of government to the people, would benefit from increased accountability through the public disclosure of their revenues.
This transparency, he noted, would drive development and ensure that funds are utilized efficiently.
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“Local government chairmen do not have constitutional immunity. By publishing their revenues, we encourage them to utilize funds wisely and effectively,” Senator Mustapha added.
As the chairman of the Senate Committee on Agricultural Production Services and Rural Development, Senator Mustapha expressed his dedication to encouraging local government administrations to focus on rural development and improve the quality of life for residents in these areas.
