My team and I recently held a vital meeting with top representatives of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON). This collaborative meeting was convened with one clear purpose: to explore transformative strategies for reactivating the economic potential of our local governments and communities, positioning households as centers of prosperity.

A critical enabler of this vision is ensuring energy security, an essential foundation for driving sustainable growth. ALGON presented the Sustainable Energy Access Project (SEAP), a groundbreaking initiative designed to tackle energy poverty head-on.

This initiative, a collaboration between ALGON and Data Analytics and Solutions Ltd, proposes scalable technologies and innovative financing models to deliver affordable and clean energy to every local government area in Nigeria. I am particularly inspired by the potential of SEAP to directly align with our ministry’s mandate to drive innovation, foster technological advancements, and contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7: affordable and clean energy for all.

As we all know, Nigeria faces a profound energy crisis, particularly in rural areas, where the lack of reliable energy hampers development and devastates livelihoods. Energy access is not just an infrastructure issue; it is a social justice imperative. Through the SEAP initiative, it creates a possibility to provide reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy solutions for cooking, transportation, and other essential needs, unlocking the economic potential of our rural communities.

The Federal Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation is deeply committed to this mission. The ministry’s role in SEAP will include offering technical and policy expertise, fostering partnerships, and crafting a comprehensive roadmap for sustainable energy access. This aligns seamlessly with His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of strengthening local government councils as drivers of grassroots development and socio-economic growth.

The SEAP initiative represents an unparalleled opportunity to liberate millions of Nigerians from the grip of energy poverty. It will require significant investments, robust stakeholder engagement, and capacity-building efforts, but the potential rewards are immense. By integrating energy solutions into rural development plans, we can uplift communities, improve livelihoods, and create a platform for shared prosperity across Nigeria.

The discussion included (Hon.) Engr. Bello Lawal, National President of ALGON; Chief Moses Nomeh, Deputy National President of ALGON; Andy Ibekaku, Director of Data Analytics and Solutions Ltd; Elder Okoronkwo Chudu, BOT Treasurer of IPMAN and Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, DG/CEO of the Energy Commission of Nigeria.

With a renewed sense of optimism, the potential of the SEAP initiative will be enormous. The discussion included representatives of ALGON, Data Analytics and Solutions Ltd, IPMAN and the DG/CEO Energy Commission, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, all of whom are key stakeholders in advancing energy security and science and technology backed transformative energy solutions for Nigerians.

HM Uche Geoffrey Nnaji

@ChiefUcheNnaji

In a landmark move aimed at revitalizing Nigeria’s primary healthcare system, the chairmen of 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs) have pledged to provide 25 per cent counterpart funding for the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF).                                                                                                                                                                                                                

This commitment is part of the ALGON Primary Healthcare Revitalization and Operationalization Programme (APH-ROP), which seeks to improve healthcare delivery nationwide.

Speaking in Abuja, the National President of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Hon. (Engr.) Bello Lawal emphasized that the initiative aligns with ALGON’s vision of using primary healthcare as a cornerstone for improved health outcomes and local government autonomy. “The APH-ROP mobilises resources and establishes partnerships to create a digitalized healthcare system linked to the National Health Data System,” Lawal explained.

The programme aims to address resource mobilisation, digital transformation, supply chain optimization, and emergency response services. It incorporates innovative approaches to track health trends, improve accountability and enhance the availability of essential medical supplies.

According to Lawal, this initiative is a step toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and aligns with the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. He highlighted ALGON’s plans to strengthen governance frameworks, build human resource capacity, and enhance community-based advocacy efforts.

Dr. Bolanle Olusola-Faleye of the USAID-funded Local Health System Sustainability Project hailed the programme’s potential, particularly its focus on reducing maternal and child mortality. She, however, underscored the importance of sustainability and equity to ensure no community is left behind.

With implementation expected to begin next year, ALGON’s commitment signifies a renewed push to transform healthcare across Nigeria, fostering collaboration among stakeholders for a more resilient system.

The ALGON National President presentation at the 65th NCH was in compliance with the National Health Act 2014 Section 11 Subsection 5(b).

The National President of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Hon.(Engr.) Bello Lawal, has congratulated the Country Director, Management, and staff of Society for Family Health (SFH) on their 40th anniversary.

In a message delivered during the anniversary celebration and book launch in Abuja, Dr. Ben Nkechika, ALGON Consultant on Health, who represented the ALGON National President, thanked Mr. Omokhudu Idogho, the Managing Director of Society for Family Health Nigeria, for the privilege of working together.

This partnership has led to several transformative health programs that have positively impacted communities across the country.

In his determination to the promotion of the Mission and Vision of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), the National President Hon. (Engr.) Bello Lawal has again reaffirmed his administration's determination to supporting Local Governments and Area Councils alongside its member constituents with overall objectives of fostering a strong partnership and service delivery.

Following the 65TH NATIONAL COUNCIL ON HEALTH BORNO STATE PROGRAMME with the Theme: Accelerating Pathway to Universal Health Coverage strategies to 2030 Success".

Hon. Bello assured that all issues concerning rural development through capacity strengthening programmes as it affects the health sector will be prioritized under his watch with his Exco, he said that in similar manner the National Secretariat has just concluded with a Nigerian based United State Government programme experts-the Management Sciences for Health (MSH) which is with a view of closing health gaps and moving rural development in the sector forward.

Addressing some group of Local government leaders in Maiduguri the Borno state capital, he appealed for collaborations and sustainability of it's plans and programmes.

Earlier, the Honourable Minister for Health Dr. Muhammad Ali Pate who was a Special Guest at the event on behalf of the Federal Government, called for collective action to address healthcare challenges, especially women’s and children’s issues.

The Health Minister made the call during the event on Thursday.

He further stressed the need for collaboration across all sectors, including government, healthcare providers and civil society organisations, “to tackle systemic barriers in healthcare, particularly in maternal health.”

He shared a personal account of a pregnant woman suffering from eclampsia, highlighting the risks faced by many Nigerians due to a lack of access to essential healthcare services.

Eclampsia is a rare but serious condition that occurs in the second half of pregnancy, causing seizures, high blood pressure, headaches, and blurry vision and convulsions, which usually occur in pregnant women with preeclampsia.

“We must act with urgency,” the minister declared, urging national effort to address the root causes of preventable deaths, particularly among women and children.

He called for a unified approach across federal, state and local levels, stressing the importance of the National Health Act, which aims to provide universal access to healthcare services.

Both stakeholders agreed on the need for improved healthcare infrastructure, especially in rural areas, where limited access to services and resources remained significant challenges.

He added, “It is not just about building more hospitals or clinics, but ensuring healthcare workers are trained, supported and equipped to deliver the best care.”

Appeal was also extended to private sector to contribute to the national health agenda, thereby aligning with government efforts to improve healthcare outcomes.

The visit provided ample opportunity for ALGON leadership to engage and interface together with key stakeholders in Borno.

The event ended on a positive note, with both parties expressing optimism for a stronger relationship and greater support for delivering on the huge expectations of the people brought to the fore by the Autonomy Judgement.

In attendance were some members of the National Executive Council - the National Welfare Officer Hon. (Dr.) Aminu Jauro Hassan, the Acting Director General Barr. Mrs. Evan Enekwe, the Technical Adviser to the National President, Hon. Shehu Jega, members of the State Government delegation and Local Government Council Chairmen in the Area.

ALGON National President Hon. (Engr.) Bello Lawal receives in the audience a delegation of Management Sciences for Health (MSH) led by its Cluster Lead on Institutional Organizational Strengthening Mrs. Nina A. Pruyn and Dr. Ben Nkechika alongside the Country Representative of (MSH), Mr. Dozie Ezechukwu and Mr. Gabriel Thompson, Senior Regional Accountant - Global Service Unit - FAO - MSH alongside Ag. Director General Barr. (Mrs.) Evan Enekwe with Directors and other Principal officers in a high-level meeting on Capacity Strengthening for the Local Governments and Councils in Nigeria for health and economic development.

ENGR. KAYODE ADEGBAYO APPOINTED SPECIAL ASSISTANT TO NATIONAL PRESIDENT OF ALGON ON PROGRAMMES: A STEP TOWARDS STRENGTHENING LOCAL GOVERNMENT SYSTEMS.

In a move aimed at revamping and rebranding the Local Government System in Nigeria, Engr. Kayode Adegbayo has been appointed as Special Assistant to the National President of ALGON on Programmes.

This appointment comes at a crucial time when the recent Supreme Court judgement has granted financial autonomy to the third tier of government, making it imperative for a more united, vibrant and committed ALGON.

With over 19 years of experience in advocating for the development of grassroots areas in Nigeria, Engr. Adegbayo is well-equipped to bring about positive change in the local government system. His efforts in promoting the welfare of the people at the grassroots level have not gone unnoticed, as he has consistently worked towards improving governance and ensuring the proper allocation of resources in local government areas.

Through initiatives such as the Nigerian Local Government Development Award and the Nigerian Local Government Development Summit, Engr. Adegbayo has been instrumental in fostering healthy competition among local government stakeholders and promoting international best practices in leadership and management. His dedication to the advancement of the local government system has earned him the trust and confidence of the National President and the entire leadership of ALGON.

“We need a working local government system to compliment the state and federal government to make Nigeria greater and better. We need the local government system that is strengthened and well empowered to guarantee a secured grassroots in Nigeria to allow agriculture and other socio-economic activities to thrive,” Engr. Kayode Adegbayo remarked.

With Engr. Adegbayo at the helm as Special Assistant on Programmes, there is no doubt that the local government system in Nigeria is set for a positive transformation.

His appointment signifies a step towards a more effective and efficient governance structure that will benefit the people at the grassroots level and contribute to the overall development of the nation.

THE PARTNERSHIP FOR AGILE GOVERNANCE AND CLIMATE ENGAGEMENT (PACE) - A UK INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AGENCY

The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria ALGON has played host to The Partnership for Agile Governance and Climate Engagement (PACE), a United Kingdom International Development Agency.

Receiving in audience the delegation of the Agency led by Mr. Chinedu Eze, the Ag. Director-General of ALGON Barr. (Mrs.) Evan Enekwe thanked the delegation for their interest in the development of the Local Governments in Nigeria.

The meeting is looking at effective mobilization of the rural populace and sensitization aimed at resolving Nigeria's climate and governance challenges that are affecting the poorest set of constituents who are most vulnerable.

It is important to create avenues to monitor and hold all stakeholders accountable to achieve the climate change objectives.

The meeting had in attendance Salawu Nuhu Ozigi (FCA), Chief Dimeji Lamuren, Alhaji Lawal Ibrahim, Tony Enoh, the PACE team had Ms Adele Ogechi and Edwin Omoja with all parties agreeing to work in unison to achieve the desired outcome.

Hon. (Engr.) Bello Lawal has officially assumed office as the National President of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON).

He arrived the at National Secretariat of ALGON in Abuja today, accompanied by his National Executive Council members and other stakeholders of the Association.

He was warmly received by the Deputy National President, Hon. (Chief) Moses O. Nomeh and other top management staff of the Association in Abuja. 

Hon. (Engr.) Bello Lawal takes over from Hon. Aminu Mu'azu Maifata, whose tenure expired on October 8 as the 12th National President of ALGON.