In a briefing with reporters in Abuja on Friday, Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State highlighted the critical need for a stronger partnership between the federal and state administrations to ensure the delivery of democracy’s benefits to the people. He emphasized that the combined efforts of both tiers of government would also play a crucial role in setting the pace for local government councils to fulfill their mandates.
Idris stressed that through collaborative initiatives, the identification of project sites, equitable distribution of social services, and public education on government policies and initiatives could be more effectively accomplished. He underscored the unique advantage that governors and local government chairmen have in understanding the needs and challenges of the populace due to their closer proximity to the people compared to the federal government.
He noted, “Farmers and vulnerable individuals reside in the states, not at the federal level. The state and local governments are intimately familiar with the vulnerable populations within their jurisdictions. This is why some federal policies may encounter difficulties when they overlook the input of states and local governments. To effectively engage with the people, collaboration with governors and local government leaders is essential.”
Idris further emphasized the necessity of involving state and local authorities in government outreach efforts, stating, “Through partnerships with state and local stakeholders, reaching the desired demographic becomes more achievable.”