The Confederation of All Progressives Congress (APC) Support Groups has urged state governors to think creatively and reduce their reliance on federal allocations for the development of their states.
Kailani Muhammad, the group’s Director-General, emphasized the importance of tapping into Nigeria’s abundant agricultural and mineral resources to create sustainable economic growth.
He expressed concerns over the recent N200 billion shortfall in the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) meeting, highlighting the risks of over-dependence on federal handouts.
“I have said it before and will say it again: the over-dependence on federal handouts for sustainable development by state governments in Nigeria cannot ensure development of states,” Muhammad remarked during a press conference in Abuja.
“The simple thing states need to do is to think outside the box and tap the abundant agricultural and mineral resources to complement what they get from the federal government.”
In addition, the group called on President Bola Tinubu to ensure the effective implementation of local government financial autonomy, citing the delay since the Supreme Court’s judgment on July 11, 2024.
Muhammad noted, “It would seem there are negative forces working behind the scenes to rubbish the Supreme Court pronouncement. These excuses coming from both sides about bureaucracy or no bureaucracy and responses from state governors are not encouraging.” He urged President Tinubu to stand firm and ensure the autonomy is fully realized.
The APC Support Group’s statement comes at a time when many state governments face mounting financial challenges, urging them to seek innovative solutions beyond federal allocations.