NGOs Organise Workshops to Promote LG  Autonomy, Agriculture in Kwara

A coalition of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) is set to host series of workshops aimed at boosting local government autonomy and advancing agricultural development across Kwara State.

The NGOs involved include the Cultural and Societal Values Development Initiatives, Moringa Development Association of Nigeria, and the Ruminants and Livestock Cooperatives Society.

Speaking at a press briefing in Ilorin on Thursday, the Coordinator and Consultant of the group, Professor Samuel Ibiyemi, revealed that the workshops would take place in six towns between September 12 and October 3, 2024.

“The workshops are designed to ensure that each local government council works towards achieving sustainable autonomy,” Prof. Ibiyemi said.

The first workshop will be held in Ilorin on September 12 and will focus on addressing challenges in agriculture, solid minerals, community policing, and road maintenance—sectors critical to local economic growth.

According to the organisers, the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s 2026 vision of empowering local governments as independent entities that can contribute to national development without interference from higher tiers of government.

“We recommend that the amended 1999 Constitution incorporate the Supreme Court’s judgment granting local government councils full autonomy to manage key areas such as land matters, community policing, education, health, and other essential services,” Prof. Ibiyemi added.

“The workshops will also address issues related to chieftaincy affairs, judicial processes, river development, and local government finances, all with the goal of removing obstacles hindering rural development and agricultural productivity.” He added

The organisers expressed optimism that these efforts would create an enabling environment for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and support the growth of local agricultural industries.

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