The newly inaugurated Forum of Commissioners for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs has pledged to significantly impact the country, particularly in light of the recent Supreme Court decision on local government autonomy, especially concerning financial autonomy.
Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, who serves as both Kano State Deputy Governor and the newly appointed Chairman of the Forum, made this announcement during the Forum’s Inaugural Caucus Meeting held in Abuja on Saturday.
In a release signed by Ibrahim Garba Shuaibu, the Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, and made available to HeapNews on Saturday, Gwarzo stated that the Forum would not appeal any Supreme Court decision but would instead navigate through the challenges to effectively administer their respective local government ministries.
He highlighted that the local government service faces numerous challenges resulting from the Supreme Court’s decisions, emphasizing the need for the Forum to come together, discuss, brainstorm, and find a way forward.
Gwarzo reminded the assembly that the Chief Executives of every state and the legislative arm rely heavily on the ministry for many aspects of local government.
He underscored that Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in any state is not a minor ministry but a large and critical sector requiring a trusted leader appointed by the chief executive.
While acknowledging that modern local government operates without traditional institutions attached to it, Gwarzo noted the significant and demanding nature of the task, especially now that it is combined with chieftaincy affairs.
He stressed the importance of the Forum coming together to address emerging issues regarding their respective local governments nationwide. This, he stated, is a historic step towards harnessing collective expertise to drive progress and strengthen the third tier of government.
Gwarzo also recognized that there are still unresolved issues concerning the existence of local government in terms of finances, administration, and elections, among other challenges brought about by the Supreme Court’s decisions.
“The Forum aims to create a platform to discuss how to advise their principals to improve the system across the country,” he said.
With 28 years of experience in local government, including serving as a chairman in 1996, Gwarzo is currently tasked with supervising the affairs of state ministries of local government and chieftaincy affairs.