By Shu’aibu Usman Leman
Nigeria’s democratic journey is often assessed through the lens of national politics—presidential elections, legislative battles, and elite power struggles. Yet democracy does not begin at the centre; it begins at the grassroots. It is in local councils, wards, and communities that citizens encounter government most directly. Unfortunately, grassroots governance has long been treated as an afterthought in Nigeria’s democratic discourse. Borno State, quietly but decisively, is challenging this pattern.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum’s approval of direct monthly allocations to the state’s twenty-seven local government areas represents more than a routine administrative reform. It is a deliberate political statement—one that recognises local governments as active engines of development rather than passive appendages of the state. By granting local government chairmen direct access to their statutory allocations, the Borno State Government has taken a concrete step toward strengthening democratic governance where it matters most.
For decades, local governments in Nigeria have struggled under the weight of bureaucratic bottlenecks. Funds meant for grassroots development were often delayed, diluted, or diverted through complex administrative channels. These inefficiencies slowed projects, frustrated communities, and weakened citizens’ trust in democratic institutions.
Borno’s policy intervention addresses this challenge directly. By removing unnecessary intermediaries in the disbursement process, the state has reduced delays and limited opportunities for leakages. More importantly, it has redefined the role of local government chairmen—from administrators constrained by state systems to leaders empowered to respond directly to the needs of their people.
This reform reflects a broader understanding of democracy. Democracy is not merely about periodic elections or high-profile political offices; it is about enabling communities to manage their own affairs effectively. When local governments function properly, democracy becomes tangible—visible in completed schools, accessible healthcare, and functional infrastructure.
The significance of this initiative is heightened by its timing. It aligns with the Supreme Court’s judgment on local government autonomy and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s December 2025 directive mandating transparent disbursement of funds to local councils.
Rather than waiting to be compelled, Borno State acted proactively, demonstrating that judicial and executive guidance can be embraced as an opportunity for reform rather than a burden.
Governor Zulum’s leadership style is evident here. His administration’s commitment to institutionalising accountability shows a clear understanding that strong institutions outlive individuals. Direct allocations ensure that local government chairmen are no longer mere intermediaries within a flawed system, but principal actors responsible for development outcomes.
The announcement by the Acting Governor, Alhaji Dr Umar Usman Kadafur, during the swearing-in ceremony of the twenty-seven newly elected local government chairpersons, was therefore deeply symbolic. It marked a turning point—signalling that grassroots democracy in Borno would no longer be ceremonial but functional.
At the heart of this reform lies transparency. The state government’s decision to publish details of all allocations disbursed to local governments is a powerful accountability tool. Transparency transforms governance from a closed system into a shared civic responsibility.
This measure does not only empower chairmen; it empowers citizens. Communities can now track funds allocated to their councils and demand results. When citizens know what resources are available, accountability shifts from abstract rhetoric to measurable outcomes.
Historically, the absence of transparency has allowed inefficiency and mismanagement to flourish at the local level. By contrast, Borno’s approach creates a framework in which oversight, auditing, and civic engagement can thrive.
Critics may argue that granting direct access to funds increases the risk of mismanagement at the local level. This concern is not unfounded. However, the solution to potential abuse is not excessive control but effective oversight. With clear auditing mechanisms, public reporting, and citizen vigilance, the risks can be mitigated.
More importantly, the potential benefits—timely project execution, responsive governance, and renewed public trust—far outweigh the perceived dangers. Democracy, after all, is not risk-free. It requires trust, responsibility, and accountability operating together.
The relevance of this initiative is amplified by Borno’s unique context. After decades of insecurity, displacement, and humanitarian crisis, rebuilding trust between citizens and government is essential. Effective local governance is critical to post-conflict recovery.
With direct access to allocations, local government chairmen can respond swiftly to urgent community needs—whether rebuilding infrastructure, supporting livelihoods, or restoring basic services.
Development becomes more responsive, targeted, and relevant.
This reform also strengthens political accountability. Chairmen who manage funds directly must answer to their constituents, not hide behind state-level bottlenecks. The people, not intermediaries, become the primary audience of governance.
In many respects, Borno State offers a practical model for other states in Nigeria. If successfully implemented and sustained, this initiative could inspire nationwide reforms, strengthening grassroots democracy across the federation.
Governor Zulum’s decision is a reminder that effective governance does not always announce itself loudly. While national attention is often consumed by political theatrics, it is these quiet structural reforms that improve daily life for ordinary citizens.
For democracy to thrive, it must be visible at the community level—projects completed on schedule, services delivered efficiently, and infrastructure aligned with genuine needs. Direct local government allocations are a meaningful step in that direction.
Ultimately, Borno’s initiative challenges Nigeria to rethink the relationship between state and local governments. It underscores a simple but powerful truth, that empowerment, transparency, and accountability are not optional features of democracy—they are its foundation.
As Nigeria continues to search for ways to deepen democratic practice, Borno’s example serves as a compelling reminder that reform does not always require grand speeches or constitutional overhauls. Sometimes, it begins with ensuring that resources reach the people they are meant to serve.
Shu’aibu Usman Leman is a former National Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists-NUJ
