Nigeria's Borno State Gives Local Governments Direct Funds

Local governments in Nigeria's Borno State just gained something they've never had before: direct control over their own money.

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum approved the immediate start of direct monthly payments to all 27 local government areas in the state. Acting Governor Umar Usman Kadafur announced the historic shift on Thursday during a swearing-in ceremony for newly elected local government chairpersons.

The change means local leaders no longer have to wait for state approval to access their funds. Money now flows straight from federal allocations into local government bank accounts, letting communities respond faster to their own needs.

"The era of local government complaining about bureaucracy in approving funds for you is gone," Kadafur told the new leaders. He emphasized that the decision follows a Supreme Court ruling and President Tinubu's December 2025 directive to state governors.

The acting governor made clear that direct access comes with direct accountability. Borno State will publish all allocation amounts publicly, ensuring communities can track every naira spent on their behalf.

The Ripple Effect

This shift could transform how services reach people across Borno State. Local leaders can now pay staff salaries on time, launch community projects without delay, and respond immediately to local challenges.

The transparency requirement creates a powerful feedback loop. When residents see exactly how much money their local government receives and how it's spent, they can hold leaders accountable in real time.

Kadafur charged the chairpersons with focusing on "essentials that directly improve lives" rather than vanity projects. He made staff welfare and prompt salary payments non-negotiable priorities.

The ceremony drew major political figures including Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Tahir Monguno, several senators, and former deputy governors. Their presence underscored the significance of returning power to the grassroots level.

For communities across Borno State, this means local problems can finally get local solutions at local speed.