All LGAs to Start Receiving Direct Funding from Federation Account

Nigeria's 774 local governments are on the verge of receiving direct funding from the federation account, a significant shift in fiscal management. This development is a direct result of all local government areas establishing accounts with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Alhaji Ilyasu Zakari, Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, Niger State Chapter, confirmed that this prerequisite has been met and communicated to the Nigerian Governors Forum.

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When I had an interaction with the Nigerian Governors Forum, NGF, recently, I told them that all the 774 local governments in the country have opened accounts with the CBN.

Zakari, who also chairs the Agwara Local Government Area, stated that while the accounts are open, the commencement of direct disbursements is still a "work in progress." This move aims to streamline financial processes and potentially increase the autonomy and efficiency of local governance across the country.

In parallel, Niger State is taking proactive measures to enhance security and attract investment. Governor Alhaji Mohammed Umaru Bago has approved the deployment of drones across the state's forests to combat the presence of terrorists and bandits. Commissioner for Investments Alhaji Aminu Sulaiman Takuma disclosed that this initiative is intended to sanitize the forests, making them safer for potential foreign and local investors.

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it is a work in progress

Takuma expressed confidence that these security measures will soon bring an end to the activities of bandits and terrorists plaguing the state, particularly in areas like Kainji, Kagara, and Shiroro forests. Furthermore, the state plans to establish a gold mining and processing factory, with an Australian firm already committed to funding the project. The government is also prioritizing infrastructure development to facilitate the movement of goods and services, further boosting industrial growth.

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All these will soon be over as the state will be made conducive for investors after the terrorists have been flushed out. There will be no more hiding place for bandits and terrorists anywhere in the state.