Kano State Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, has called on the 44 local government chairmen in the state to remain steadfast in their respective areas and address challenges head-on to improve governance and service delivery.
Gwarzo, who also serves as the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, made this charge during the opening ceremony of a workshop for local government chairmen, Directors of Personnel Management (DPMs), and secretaries.
Workshop Focuses on Leadership and Ethics
Themed “Leadership and Professional Ethics,” the workshop was organized by the Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in collaboration with the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON). It aims to enhance the decision-making, leadership, and conflict management skills of local government administrators, ensuring their actions are rooted in integrity and focused on community development.
Speaking at the event, Gwarzo highlighted the pivotal role of local governments as the foundation of democracy:
“Local governments are the backbone of democracy. Your decisions and leadership directly influence the lives of the people, the progress of the state, and the nation.”
He also urged participants to adopt best practices, share knowledge, and leverage networks to improve grassroots governance.
Commitment to Grassroots Development
Gwarzo reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the growth of Kano’s 44 LGAs and praised Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for his unwavering dedication to human capital development, especially at the local government level.
Expert Insights and Legislative Input
Chief Dr. Yomi Charles, a project consultant from ASCON, outlined the workshop’s primary focus areas, including conflict management and qualities of effective leadership. He emphasized the inevitability of conflict in administration and encouraged leaders to adopt strategies for resolving disputes while maintaining transparency.
Zubairu Hamza Masu, Chairman of the House Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, commended the workshop’s relevance. Representing the Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Jibril Ismail Falgore, Masu recommended extending similar training to lawmakers and local government administrators to foster harmonious governance.
Participants Share Experiences
Participants expressed their appreciation for the workshop, describing it as impactful.
- Dr. Mani Tsoho, Chairman of Gwarzo LGA, praised the training’s focus on conflict resolution and governance.
- Hajiya Sa’adatu Salisu Yusha’u, Chairman of Tudun Wada LGA, noted she had gained insights on securing and implementing development projects for her community.
- Chairmen from Warawa and Dambatta LGAs also pledged to utilize the knowledge acquired to enhance governance in their regions.
This workshop marks a significant step towards equipping Kano’s grassroots leaders with the tools to build sustainable, accountable, and development-oriented local governments.