From Abubakar Abdullahi, Lafia
The Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) has said local councils cannot afford to pay the proposed N62,000 as new minimum wage given their meager allocation from the Federation Account.
The National President of ALGON, Aminu Mu’azu-Maifata stated this in an interview with newsmen on Monday in Lafia, Nasarawa State.
Maifata who is the Lafia Local Government Chairman in Nasarawa State explained that the 774 Local Government Councils in the country get little above 18 per cent from Federation Account monthly which is grossly inadequate to pay N62,000 minimum wage.
The ALGON leader also made a case for amendment of the constitution to make the tenure of office of LGAs officials uniform across the country for smooth administration.
“The tenure of office of LGAs officials should be made four years to enable them deliver on their campaign promises to the electorates.
“The tenure is three years in some states and two years in some other states which is not good for the administration at the area councils,”
He further said that the association would work with other stakeholders to ensure full implementation of the area councils autonomy as enshrined in the country’s constitution.
Muazu-Maifata while speaking on his blueprint as ALGON President said he would work toward ensuring a cordial relationship between them and governors of the 36 states in the country.
“I also want to improve the on existing unity amongst the various LGAs Chairmen and administrations in the country in order to better the lives of our people.
“Unity among LGAs Chairmen will help us compare notes and come up with good policies and programmes to improve governance for the benefits of the people at the grassroots.
“We will also give priority to issues of security at the local level and attract interventions from development partners to our various councils.”
