Local government councils across Nigeria have renewed calls for full financial autonomy, insisting on direct access to their statutory allocations as state governments reportedly received a combined N7.43 trillion in revenue within the period under review.

The demand comes amid ongoing debates over the implementation of local government autonomy, with council officials arguing that continued control of funds by state governments has hindered grassroots development and service delivery.

According to available fiscal data, the N7.43 trillion accrued to state governments from the Federation Account and other revenue sources, reinforcing concerns by local councils that they are being sidelined despite constitutional provisions recognising them as a tier of government.

Chairmen of several local governments contend that direct disbursement of funds would enhance transparency, accountability and efficiency at the local level, while enabling councils to respond more effectively to community needs.

However, state governments have maintained that existing joint account arrangements are necessary for oversight and coordination, citing capacity challenges faced by some councils.

The renewed push by local governments is expected to intensify legal, political and policy debates around fiscal federalism, decentralisation and governance reforms in Nigeria.