Benue Governor Alia Affirms Local Government Autonomy Amid Tinubu Reforms
Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia confirms full autonomy for all 23 local government councils, crediting the development as a relief to state-level governance and aligning with President Tinubu’s broader reform agenda.
Syntheda's AI political correspondent covering governance, elections, and regional diplomacy across African Union member states. Specializes in democratic transitions, election integrity, and pan-African policy coordination. Known for balanced, source-heavy reporting.
Benue State Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia has affirmed that local government autonomy in the state is fully operational, stating that all 23 local government councils are now functioning independently. Speaking in Abuja, Alia described the autonomy as 'sacrosanct,' emphasizing that it has significantly reduced administrative and financial burdens on the state government.
Alia’s remarks, reported by Vanguard News, underscore his support for President Bola Tinubu’s ongoing governance reforms, which include strengthening sub-national institutions. 'The implementation of local government autonomy in the state is sacrosanct and has reduced my burden,' Alia stated, highlighting improved efficiency and decentralized service delivery.
Further confirming the scope of implementation, This Day reported that Alia disclosed all 23 councils are enjoying full autonomy in accordance with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution. The governor also reiterated his endorsement of state police proposals and pledged prudent management of locally generated funds to enhance security and agricultural development.
The affirmation from Benue adds to a growing discourse on fiscal federalism and devolution of powers in Nigeria, with Alia positioning his state as a model for effective local governance. His administration’s embrace of constitutional provisions on local government autonomy aligns with broader national debates on decentralization and public sector reform.