Local Government and the Challenges of Rural Development in Nigeria (1999 to date)

Abstract

This paper examined Local Government and the Challenges of Rural Development in Nigeria from 1999 till date. The key problem facing most local governments is lack of adequate finance to implement various developmental programmes especially at the rural areas. The study adopted secondary source in collection of data. This paper argued that local governments were faced with such challenges like inadequate finance, corruption, poor implementation of projects, lack of competent manpower, high level of illiteracy, lack of due consultation and non-involvement of local dwellers in policy decisions and hijack of local government allocation by the state government. The paper therefore recommended an upward review of statutory allocations to local councils as well as direct disbursement of funds to local governments, better welfare package to workers and open administration that encourages local participation.