What major reforms were made in the local government system in Nigeria in 1976?

Answer Details

The 1976 Local Government Reform, introduced under the military government of General Murtala Mohammed and Olusegun Obasanjo, was the most far-reaching reform of local administration in Nigeria. Its major features were:

1. Uniform single-tier system: it established a uniform system of local government throughout the country, replacing the varied and confusing arrangements that had existed in the different regions.
2. Recognition as a third tier of government: local government was recognised as the third tier of government, distinct from the federal and state governments, with its own defined functions.
3. Direct statutory allocation of revenue: local governments were to receive statutory grants directly from the Federation Account and from the state governments, giving them a more reliable source of funds.
4. Population-based creation of councils: local government areas were created on the basis of population, generally within a range of about 150,000 to 800,000 people, to make them viable units of administration.
5. Elected councils and defined functions: elected councils were to run the local governments, and their functions (such as primary education, primary health care, markets, motor parks, roads and sanitation) were clearly spelt out.
6. Reduced traditional-ruler control: the role of traditional rulers in the day-to-day running of local government was reduced; they were given advisory roles through councils of chiefs rather than executive control.
7. Democratisation and mass participation: the reform aimed to bring government closer to the people and to encourage grassroots participation in decision-making and development.