The Federal Government has inaugurated a dedicated team within the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF) to oversee the direct distribution of funds to the 774 local government areas (LGAs) across the country.
This initiative, which commences this month, marks a significant step toward achieving financial autonomy for the third tier of government.
The first meeting of the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) for the year is scheduled for Wednesday, where discussions are expected to center on the operational framework for the direct fund distribution to LGAs.
“Most of the 774 LGAs will begin receiving their allocations directly starting January 2025,” a source disclosed.
The committee is set to reconvene later this month to assess progress and finalize the necessary procedures before the AGF gives the official authorization for the full implementation of the plan.
“There’s no challenge anticipated in executing the minister’s approval to commence disbursements to the LGAs. This is a routine process for the ministry, as they handle similar tasks for states.
“A dedicated department is already in place, so the structure for implementation is well-established,” the source added.
Additionally, the Inter-Ministerial Committee is tasked with addressing attempts by some state governors to undermine the autonomy of democratically elected local government chairmen, their deputies, and councilors.
