The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) has endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office ahead of the 2027 general elections, citing what it described as improved governance and growing autonomy at the grassroots level.
The decision was reached during ALGON’s 54th Expanded National Executive Council meeting held in Abuja, where representatives from all 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory gathered to review developments affecting local government administration in the country.
The meeting, chaired by ALGON National President, Bello Lawal, also had in attendance past leaders of the association, reflecting what members described as a broad-based consensus within the body.
The motion to endorse Tinubu for re-election was moved by a former ALGON President, Alabi Kolade David, and seconded by the Plateau State ALGON chairman, Anani Hamisu Mohammed. The endorsement was later adopted as part of the resolutions contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting on Sunday.
In the communiqué, Mohammed said the association believes that continuity under Tinubu’s administration would further strengthen governance at the local level. According to him, policies introduced under the current administration are already yielding results in improving financial capacity and independence of local governments.
He said, “Continuity under this administration will deepen grassroots governance and ensure that the gains recorded so far are not lost.”
ALGON based its endorsement largely on the Federal Government’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” a policy framework introduced by Tinubu when he assumed office in 2023. The agenda focuses on economic reforms, infrastructure development, and strengthening public institutions.
For years, local governments in Nigeria have faced challenges related to limited financial autonomy and heavy dependence on state governments for funding. However, recent reforms, including discussions around direct allocation of funds to local councils, have been seen by stakeholders as steps toward empowering local administrations.
In addition to endorsing the President, ALGON also used the meeting to address internal disciplinary matters within its ranks.
The council announced the suspension of three local government chairmen over alleged misconduct. Those affected are Zakari Iliyasu, Chairman of Agwara Local Government Area and ALGON chairman in Niger State; Abubakar Danladi Abdullahi, Chairman of Kaiama Local Government Area and ALGON chairman in Kwara State; and Abba Shehu Tambuwal, Chairman of Tambuwal Local Government Council and ALGON chairman in Sokoto State.
According to the association, the trio were suspended over allegations of impersonation, actions contrary to the interests of the body, and abuse of constitutional provisions.
ALGON warned ministries, departments and agencies, as well as state governments and development partners, not to engage with the suspended officials, stressing that they no longer have the authority to represent the association in any capacity.
“The affected individuals are no longer recognised as representatives of ALGON, and stakeholders are advised to take note,” the communiqué stated.
The disciplinary action, according to analysts, highlights ongoing efforts within the association to maintain internal order and ensure that its leadership structure remains credible, especially at a time when it is taking strong positions on national political issues.
ALGON also passed a vote of confidence in its national leadership, reaffirming its support for Bello Lawal as president of the association. Members pledged loyalty and unity, describing strong leadership as necessary for advancing the interests of local governments across the country.
The association plays a key role in Nigeria’s governance structure, serving as a platform for local government officials to discuss common challenges and advocate for reforms. Its influence has grown in recent years, particularly as debates around decentralisation and grassroots development continue to gain attention.
As Nigeria moves closer to another election cycle, the endorsement of President Tinubu by ALGON is likely to generate reactions from political actors and other stakeholders. While some may see it as a reflection of confidence in the administration’s policies, others may view it as part of the broader political positioning that typically precedes general elections.
For now, ALGON maintains that its decision is based on performance and the need to sustain reforms that, in its view, are beginning to positively impact governance at the local level.