Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has signed the 2025 Local Government Amendment Bill into law, introducing significant reforms aimed at strengthening governance at the grassroots level. The bill is expected to drive economic development, improve service delivery, and encourage broader participation in local administration.
Key amendments in the bill include increasing the number of local government departments from seven to twelve, thereby expanding administrative capacity. Additionally, the law has adjusted the allocation of funds from Local Government Councils to key Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to enhance efficiency.
The legislation also assigns new responsibilities to Vice Chairmen of Councils, entrusting them with humanitarian affairs, peace and conflict resolution, border and boundary management, and sports development. Furthermore, it mandates that all Executive Council appointments must adhere to the principles of Federal Character, ensuring fair representation across different regions.
Strengthening the administrative framework, the law reinforces the offices of the Secretary of the Council and the Clerk of the Legislative Council by providing them with additional staff. It also formalizes the statutory appointment of up to 50 individuals per council and introduces Ward Relations Officers, who will serve as Special Assistants at the ward level.
The amendment further specifies the roles and entitlements of council leaders, including the appointment of key aides such as a Chief of Staff and Chief Press Secretary for each local government. The legislation also establishes new guidelines for appointing Heads of Local Government Administration (HOLGAs) and sets clear criteria for their tenure and cessation of office.
