By Shu’aibu Usman Leman
Nigeria’s democratic journey is often measured through national politics, presidential elections, legislative contests, and elite power struggles. Yet democracy does not take root at the centre.
It begins at the grassroots. It is within local councils, wards, and communities that citizens experience governance most directly.
Unfortunately, grassroots governance has long been marginalised in Nigeria’s democratic conversation.
Borno State is now quietly but decisively challenging that pattern.
Governor Babagana UZulum’s approval of direct monthly allocations to the state’s 27 local government areas goes beyond routine administrative reform. It represents a deliberate political choice that recognises local governments as engines of development rather than passive extensions of the state. By granting local government chairmen direct access to their statutory allocations, the Borno State Government has taken a concrete step towards strengthening democratic governance at its foundation.
For decades, local governments in Nigeria have operated under severe bureaucratic constraints. Funds meant for grassroots development were often delayed, diluted, or diverted through complex administrative processes. These inefficiencies stalled projects, frustrated communities, and eroded public confidence in democratic institutions.
Borno’s intervention addresses this challenge directly. By removing unnecessary intermediaries in the disbursement process, the state has reduced delays and limited opportunities for financial leakages.
More importantly, it has redefined the role of local government chairmen from administrators trapped within restrictive systems to leaders empowered to respond directly to community needs.
This reform reflects a deeper understanding of democracy. Democracy is not defined solely by elections or high-profile offices. It is sustained by the capacity of communities to manage their affairs effectively.
When local governments function properly, democracy becomes tangible through completed schools, accessible healthcare, and functional infrastructure.
The significance of this initiative is reinforced by its timing.It aligns with the Supreme Court 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.
Governor Zulum’s leadership style is evident in this approach. His administration’s emphasis on institutional accountability reflects a clear understanding that strong institutions outlive individuals.
Direct allocations ensure that local government chairmen are no longer mere conduits within a flawed system but principal actors accountable for development outcomes.
The announcement by the Acting Governor, Dr.Umar Kadafur, during the swearing in ceremony of the 27 newly elected local government chairpersons, was therefore deeply symbolic.
It marked a turning point and signalled that grassroots democracy in Borno would be functional rather than ceremonial.
Transparency lies at the heart of this reform. The decision to publish details of all allocations disbursed to local governments represents a powerful accountability mechanism. Transparency transforms governance from a closed process into a shared civic responsibility.
This measure empowers not only chairmen but citizens as well. Communities can now track funds allocated to their councils and demand results. When citizens know what resources are available, accountability shifts from rhetoric to measurable outcomes.
Historically, the absence of transparency has allowed inefficiency and mismanagement to thrive at the local level. By contrast, Borno’s approach establishes a framework in which oversight, auditing, and civic engagement can flourish.
Critics may argue that granting direct access to funds increases the risk of mismanagement at the local level.
This concern is not without merit. 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 of timely project execution, responsive governance, and renewed public trust far outweigh the perceived dangers. Democracy is not risk-free. It requires trust, responsibility, and accountability to operate together.
The relevance of this initiative is amplified by Borno’s unique context.
After years of insecurity, displacement, and humanitarian challenges, 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 rather than rely on state level bottlenecks.
The people become the primary audience of governance.
In many respects, Borno State now offers a practical model for other states across Nigeria.
If sustained and properly implemented, this initiative could inspire broader reforms and strengthen grassroots democracy nationwide.
Governor Zulum’s decision is a reminder that effective governance does not always announce itself loudly.
While national attention is often consumed by political spectacle, it is quiet structural reforms like this that improve daily life for ordinary citizens.
For democracy to thrive, it must be visible at the community level through projects completed on schedule, services delivered efficiently, and infrastructure aligned with real 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 but its foundation.
As Nigeria continues its search for ways to deepen democratic practice, Borno’s example serves as a reminder that reform does not always require grand speeches or constitutional overhauls. Sometimes, it begins by ensuring that resources reach the people they are meant to serve.
Leman is a former National Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
