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" *Reviving Democracy from the Ground Up: Tinubu’s Bold Push for Local Government Autonomy* "

Tinubu Charts a New Course for Democracy, Restores Power to the Grassroots

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is taking a historic leap toward reviving Nigeria’s democratic roots by championing full autonomy for local governments — a move hailed as vital for grassroots development and democratic consolidation.

This bold reaffirmation was delivered by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, who hosted the National Forum of Ex-Councilors during a courtesy visit to his office on Friday. The Minister made it clear: Nigeria’s democracy cannot flourish without empowering the tier of government closest to its people.

“President Tinubu is unwavering in his belief that effective governance begins at the grassroots. That’s why he’s committed to restoring true autonomy to local government councils,” Idris declared. According to him, this effort includes backing the Supreme Court’s interpretation of the Constitution which mandates independent and functional local councils.

The Minister lamented the long-standing decline of local government effectiveness, attributing it to systemic disempowerment. However, he expressed confidence that Tinubu’s reform-driven leadership would reverse this erosion.
“Restoring the rightful role of local governments is not just a policy choice — it is a democratic imperative,” he emphasized.

Calling on state governors to align with the President’s vision, Idris urged them to join hands in reviving the original intent of local governance as enshrined in the Constitution.

Addressing the ex-councilors, Idris praised them as foot soldiers of democracy and encouraged them to serve as ambassadors of the Tinubu reform agenda at the grassroots.
“You are a formidable force — over 70,000 strong — with roots in every part of this country. Use that influence to help citizens understand that these reforms are not meant to punish but to reposition the nation for long-term prosperity.”

He pointed out that landmark policy decisions like the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of foreign exchange rates have already doubled allocations to states and local councils, unlocking resources for infrastructure and social services.

To ensure development reaches every corner of Nigeria, Idris highlighted the establishment of regional Development Commissions, saying they would drive strategic growth across all geopolitical zones.

In recognition of his efforts, the Minister was honored with a “People-Oriented Award” by the Forum. In response, he expressed deep appreciation, pledging to rededicate himself to public service and the advancement of Nigeria’s democratic ideals.

Mr. Cole Michaels, Assistant Secretary of the Forum, commended the Minister for rejuvenating public information agencies and keeping Nigerians informed about the Tinubu administration’s transformative policies.

He stated that the award symbolizes the Minister’s unwavering commitment to promoting good governance and democratic integrity.

The visiting delegation, representing states across the federation, was led by Forum President Mr. Auwal Kassim Hassan — reaffirming the growing momentum behind the President’s call to restore local governments as the bedrock of Nigeria’s democracy.

By Haruna Yakubu Haruna