In a groundbreaking move aimed at revolutionizing local governance across Nigeria, Organised Labour has proposed a bold suite of reforms targeting local government workers, primary school teachers, and pensioners. Spearheaded by prominent unions such as the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), and the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP), these recommendations seek to enhance accountability and service delivery in all 774 local government areas nationwide.
At the forefront of the Joint Action Committee’s (JAC) proposals is a sweeping recommendation for comprehensive staff auditing and redistribution. Union leaders emphasize that this crucial audit will accurately determine the number of local government employees and teachers, a necessary step for fostering transparency in local government operations.
NUT President Titus Amba, NULGE President Ambali Akeem, and NUP President Godwin Abumisi assert, “For a hitch-free takeoff of the direct payment system recently granted by the Supreme Court, it is vital to conduct a thorough staff audit.”
Another pivotal recommendation includes a proposed one-year embargo on new recruitment in local government and teaching roles. JAC argues that this freeze will enable local governments to stabilize their current workforce and focus resources on urgent developmental projects.
“The suspension of new hires will allow local governments to concentrate on effective service delivery without the added burden of unnecessary staffing,” the committee stated.
To ensure quality control, JAC recommends restructuring supervisory institutions overseeing local government affairs. They advocate for including stakeholders such as the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in decision-making processes, aiming for enhanced effectiveness and transparency.
Highlighting a significant deficit in infrastructure, JAC calls for federal intervention to procure essential machinery and equipment for local governments. They propose a gradual funding model through local government allocations, ensuring that critical services are not hampered by financial instability.
Security is also a pressing concern, with JAC recommending the reorganization of local peace and security committees to enhance grassroots safety. Additionally, they stress the importance of prioritizing workers’ welfare, proposing that salaries, pensions, and training grants be managed efficiently to foster industrial harmony.
Finally, JAC suggests empowering the Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs to oversee local government reforms. This ministry would coordinate policies and ensure efficient implementation, marking a pivotal shift towards better governance.
The reforms proposed by Organised Labour signal a significant potential shift in the management of local government affairs in Nigeria. With the recent Supreme Court ruling granting financial autonomy, the successful implementation of these recommendations could transform local governance and enhance the livelihoods of millions.