LIST OF REASONS

Introduction Local government autonomy in Nigeria refers to the independence of the 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs) as the third tier of government, free from excessive state control over finances, administration, and elections. The 1999 Constitution (as amended) recognizes LGAs under Section 7, but state interference — via joint accounts and caretaker committees—has historically undermined this. The landmark Supreme Court judgment of July 11, 2024, affirmed financial autonomy, declaring direct federal allocations, banning caretaker committees, and prohibiting governors from withholding funds. This ruling highlights why Nigeria urgently needs true local government autonomy. Here are the Six (6) Reasons for Local Government Autonomy in Nigeria :  1. Promoting Grassroots Development and Service Delivery Local governments are closest to the people, responsible for essential services like primary education, healthcare, sanitation, rural roads, and markets (Fourth Schedule of the ...

Introduction Deforestation in Nigeria remains a critical environmental crisis, with the country losing vast swathes of forest cover annually. According to recent data, Nigeria has shed over 17 million hectares of forest since 1990, at an alarming rate of 3.5% per year. In 2024 alone, 253,000 hectares were lost, contributing to massive carbon emissions and biodiversity decline. Understanding the reasons for deforestation in Nigeria is essential for addressing this issue, which exacerbates climate change, soil erosion, and food insecurity. This article explores the primary causes, drawing from expert analyses, to highlight why Nigeria's forests are vanishing and what can be done . Five (5) Reasons for Deforestation in Nigeria: Key Causes and Impacts 1. Agricultural Expansion: The Leading Driver Agriculture is the backbone of Nigeria's economy, but its rapid growth is a top reason for deforestation. Smallholder farmers and commercial plantations clear forests for crops like palm ...