2027: Atiku promises direct funding for local governments if elected

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has pledged to ensure that funds meant for Nigeria’s 774 local government areas are paid directly into their accounts if he wins the 2027 presidential election.

Atiku made the promise while speaking on his plans for local government administration and financial autonomy.

He said his administration would strengthen the independence of local governments by ensuring that allocations due to them are not diverted or controlled by state governments.

According to him, local councils need direct access to their funds to effectively provide basic services and drive development at the grassroots.

Atiku said the move would also promote accountability and enable local government officials to take responsibility for the development of their respective communities.

He stressed that financial autonomy was essential to making local governments more effective and responsive to the needs of residents.

The former vice president also criticised the current system of local government funding, arguing that councils should have greater control over resources allocated to them.

He said that, if elected in 2027, his administration would work to strengthen democratic institutions and ensure that local governments operate with greater financial independence.

Atiku’s proposal is part of his broader campaign message on restructuring governance and devolving more powers and resources to the grassroots.