LOCAL COUNCIL DEVELOPMENT AREA’S AND GRASSROOTS DEVELOPMENT IN EKITI STATE (EKA-META CDA)

Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) have been established as a decentralized governance framework aimed at enhancing grassroots development. This study investigates the role of LCDAs in grassroots development in Ekiti State, focusing on the contributions, challenges, and effectiveness of the Eka-Meta LCDA system. The study employs a mixed-methods research design, integrating both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Data were collected through surveys, interviews, and document reviews from community members, government officials, and stakeholders within the LCDA system. The findings reveal that LCDAs have played a significant role in infrastructure development, community participation, and local governance. However, challenges such as inadequate funding, resource mismanagement, and informal governance practices limit their effectiveness. The study also highlights the importance of community engagement and institutional transparency in achieving sustainable development at the grassroots level. The theoretical framework, based on Institutional Theory and Principal-Agent Theory, provides a comprehensive understanding of the interaction between governance structures and development outcomes. The study concludes that while LCDAs have the potential to drive local development, systemic reforms, improved financial management, and enhanced participatory governance are essential to maximizing their impact. Recommendations include strengthening financial oversight, promoting community participation, and leveraging technology for efficient governance. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on local governance and grassroots development, offering insights for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders seeking to improve the effectiveness of LCDAs in Nigeria and beyond.