LOCAL GOV'T AUTONOMY IN NIGERIA: ISSUES AND CHALLENGES: CASE STUDY OF MUBI NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ADAMAWA STATE.

This study investigated the issues and challenges of local government autonomy in Nigeria. Specifically, the study examined the roles of local government administration in Nigeria; analysed the challenges of local government autonomy in Nigeria; analysed the advantages of granting full autonomy to local government in Nigeria; and determined ways by which local government administration can improve community development in Nigeria. The study employed a descriptive survey research design. The target population comprised of 50 respondents, randomly selected from Mubi-North local government Secretariat, Mubi-North. Data were collected through the administration of questionnaires. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics. Results of data analysis were presented using frequency distribution tables. The study found that local government administration in Nigeria performs the role of facilitating citizen participation and engagement in governance processes. They are also instrumental in implementing poverty alleviation programs and social welfare initiatives, play a vital role in promoting economic development and job creation at the grassroots level, collect taxes and generate revenue to fund local development projects, and providing basic amenities such as water supply, sanitation, and primary healthcare services. The study also found that local governments are facing challenges such as political interference from state governments, bureaucratic red tape and administrative bottlenecks, inefficient revenue generation mechanisms, lack of clear legal frameworks and guidelines, and complex or overlapping jurisdictional issues between federal, state, and local governments. Based on these findings, the study recommends constitutional and legislative reforms to ensure that the Nigerian constitution clearly defines and guarantees the autonomy of local governments. Amendments should include provisions for direct funding from the federal government to local governments without state interference. Also, government should regularly review and update laws and regulations governing local governments to align with contemporary needs and best practices. Ensure that these laws support local government autonomy and clarify the roles and responsibilities of local government officials.