The Cross River State House of Assembly has officially passed the 2025 Local Government Amendment Bill into law, marking a significant step toward improved governance and service delivery at the grassroots level.
The legislation was enacted on Friday after thorough deliberations on a report submitted by the Joint Committee on Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Judiciary, Public Service Matters, Public Petitions and Conflict Resolution, and Public Accounts.
Eyo Bassey, Chairman of the Joint Committee and representative of Bakassi, outlined the importance of the bill during its presentation.
Bassey explained that the State Local Government Law of 2007, previously amended in 2008 and 2011, had been harmonized and repealed for better clarity.
“This amendment aims to bring clarity and efficiency while aligning local government operations with contemporary realities,” he said.
The bill introduces a range of reforms to the third tier of government, including measures to boost economic development, broaden participation, and enhance service delivery.
One notable change is the elevation of the Heads of Local Government Administration (HOLGAs) to the rank of Permanent Secretaries, aligning them with their counterparts in the State Civil Service.
“This move is designed to reward hard work and dedication,” Bassey added.
Additionally, the amendments provide enhanced financial provisions for the Auditor-General for Local Government to improve operational efficiency.
The number of local government departments has been increased from seven to twelve, while adjustments have been made to the allocation of funds to key Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to ensure greater efficiency.
The role of Vice Chairmen of Councils has also been redefined.
They are now tasked with overseeing humanitarian affairs, peace and conflict resolution, border and boundary issues, and sports.
Furthermore, the bill mandates that appointments into Executive Councils must reflect federal character, promoting inclusivity.
Other reforms include strengthening the offices of the Secretary of Council and Clerk of the Legislative Council, as well as introducing statutory appointments for Ward Relations Officers, who will serve as Special Assistants for each Council Ward.
Provisions have also been made for personal assistants and Chief Press Secretaries for Leaders and Deputy Leaders of Councils, along with clear criteria for the appointment and cessation of office for HOLGAs.
Before its passage, lawmakers reviewed the bill extensively in a Committee of the Whole, ensuring that the amendments addressed contemporary challenges and the needs of rural communities.
Members expressed satisfaction with the proposed changes, emphasizing their potential to benefit citizens at the grassroots level.
The Speaker of the House, Elvert Ayambem, commended the Joint Committee and lawmakers for their dedication, which facilitated the bill’s swift passage.
“This landmark legislation underscores our commitment to improving governance and service delivery across Cross River State,” Ayambem remarked.
