President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed that local government councils in Nigeria receive direct federal funding, a key component of implementing the Supreme Court ruling on local government autonomy and strengthening grassroots governance. Tinubu’s order was issued during a meeting with state governors and political leaders, where he emphasised that meaningful autonomy for councils is impossible without a funded mandate.
The directive aligns with the Supreme Court’s 2025 decision that state governments have no constitutional authority to withhold or control funds allocated to local governments, and that allocations should be disbursed directly from the Federation Account to ensure financial independence at the grassroots.
Tinubu said direct funding is non-negotiable if local governments are to function effectively, reinforcing the government’s commitment to deepening democratic governance and empowering councils to deliver essential services. He also urged governors to cooperate with the federal directive and to support institutional reforms that strengthen governance at all levels.
By ordering the direct release of funds to councils, Tinubu aims to fulfil the constitutional mandate affirmed by the courts and enhance transparency and accountability in fiscal transfers to the grassroots.
