Specific Legislative Actions

• Strat.1
  "The ongoing Local Government reform forms part of the 6th Constitution Alteration process currently being undertaken by the National Assembly, with plans to conclude the exercise next admisnistration. The reform agenda is aimed at strengthening grassroots governance, improving accountability, and enhancing service delivery at the local level. As part of this initiative, several bills have been introduced on the floor of the Senate to establish a more effective, transparent, and participatory system of local governance that better responds to community needs, strengthens public trust, and promotes sustainable development. 1. These include the Local Government Independent Electoral Commission (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (SB.531), sponsored by Senator Sani Musa, which seeks to create an independent electoral body for local government elections and has passed its first reading (https://www.westernpost.ng/breaking-senate-moves-to-create-local-government-electoral-commission/?utm). 2. Also, the Local Government Fiscal Accountability Bill, 2024 (SB.549), sponsored by Senator Saliu Mustapha, has similarly passed first reading and aims to enhance transparency and public access to local government financial allocations (Punch Newspapers, 2024). In addition, proposals seeking to strengthen local government as an effective third tier of government are currently under consideration by the Senate Committee on Constitution Review, as part of broader efforts to deepen decentralisation and improve governance at the grassroots level. Collectively, these legislative interventions reflect the Senate’s commitment to strengthening local governance structures, improving fiscal accountability, and promoting inclusive development at the subnational level. "