Hon. Abubakar Abdullahi Bata, Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Community Development in Kwara State, highlights how spiritual leadership, community engagement, and strategic governance have fueled unprecedented progress across the state’s 16 local governments. Under the visionary guidance of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, Bata’s ministry has restored timely salary payments, strengthened traditional institutions, and fostered peace and development at the grassroots. These achievements have set a new standard for local governance in Nigeria, laying a solid foundation for sustainable and inclusive growth that touches every community in Kwara State.
Could you please introduce yourself, your background, and your journey into public service?
I hail from Kaiama Local Government Area in Kwara State. My career began in the education sector, where I served as Secretary and later Chairman of the National Union of Teachers (NUT) in Kaiama. This experience gave me a grassroots perspective on the challenges communities face, especially in education. In 2014, I was appointed Secretary of Kaiama Local Government Council, and in 2017, I was elected Executive Council Chairman of the same council. These roles deepened my understanding of local governance. In recognition of my dedication, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq appointed me Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Community Development, a position that allows me to serve the entire state and work closely with local governments and traditional institutions to foster development.
I hail from Kaiama Local Government Area in Kwara State. My career began in the education sector, where I served as Secretary and later Chairman of the National Union of Teachers (NUT) in Kaiama. This experience gave me a grassroots perspective on the challenges communities face, especially in education. In 2014, I was appointed Secretary of Kaiama Local Government Council, and in 2017, I was elected Executive Council Chairman of the same council. These roles deepened my understanding of local governance. In recognition of my dedication, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq appointed me Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Community Development, a position that allows me to serve the entire state and work closely with local governments and traditional institutions to foster development.
What are some of the ministry’s major achievements over the past six years, including before your appointment?
Since Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq took office in 2019, we have witnessed significant progress. One of the most impactful achievements has been the regular and full payment of local government staff salaries. Before his administration, salaries were often paid partially or late, which affected staff morale and service delivery. The governor prioritized salary payments, ensuring that all local government workers receive 100% of their salaries by the 25th of each month without delay.
Beyond salaries, the ministry has overseen numerous infrastructure projects across health, education, and agriculture sectors. We have constructed classrooms, primary healthcare centers, and electrification projects that have improved access to essential services. I personally conduct oversight visits to all 16 local governments to ensure these projects meet quality standards and truly benefit the people.
How has the ministry contributed to improving service delivery at the local government level?
A key factor in improving service delivery has been the empowerment of local governments with autonomy. Unlike before, local councils now receive federal allocations directly and have the freedom to execute projects independently. Our ministry’s role is supervisory: we provide guidelines, ensure compliance with legal frameworks, and monitor progress. This balance between autonomy and oversight has fostered accountability, efficiency, and responsiveness to local needs, enabling councils to better serve their communities.
What plans does the ministry have to sustain and build upon these achievements in the coming years?
We are committed to sustaining and expanding the progress made. Our plans include continuing to commission schools, health facilities, and electrification projects across all local governments. We also aim to strengthen capacity building for local government officials to improve governance and project management. Additionally, we will deepen community engagement to ensure development initiatives align with grassroots priorities and promote sustainable agricultural programs to boost rural economies.
How does the ministry support the preservation of cultural heritage alongside promoting development?
While cultural heritage primarily falls under the Ministry of Communication, our ministry ensures that traditional councils are empowered and well-managed. Traditional rulers are custodians of culture, and by strengthening their institutions, we help preserve cultural values. We work closely with traditional councils to align their activities with state development policies, ensuring cultural preservation complements socio-economic progress.
How has the ministry enhanced the role of traditional rulers and chieftaincy institutions?
Traditional rulers play a critical role in community governance and conflict resolution. Since my tenure began, we have installed several traditional rulers, including notable figures such as Oba Nurudeen Alowonle Yusuf, the Elemona of Ilemona and Aide-De-Camp to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and Oba Jimoh Adebowale Adesoye, the Elerin of Erin-Ile. We continue to process outstanding installations diligently, recognizing that strong traditional leadership supports peace, security, and development at the grassroots.
Traditional leadership transitions can sometimes lead to disputes. What mechanisms has the ministry put in place to ensure peaceful and lawful succession?
We follow a transparent and legally defined succession process. It begins with kingmakers within the community nominating candidates, followed by vetting and endorsement by the local government traditional council, review by the local government council, and final approval by the ministry and His Excellency, the Governor. Strict adherence to this process has minimized conflicts. When disputes arise, courts have upheld the ministry’s decisions, reinforcing the legitimacy of the process.
Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq is known for prioritizing health and education. How is this reflected at the local government level?
The state’s priorities are mirrored at the grassroots. I have commissioned numerous schools and health facilities across all local governments, improving access to quality education and healthcare. These investments reflect the administration’s commitment to uplifting communities and ensuring that development reaches every corner of the state.
How does the ministry ensure transparency and accountability in local government administration?
We monitor local councils to ensure they adhere to due process in project execution and financial management. While councils have autonomy, we conduct regular audits and oversight visits to prevent mismanagement. Transparency is further reinforced through public reporting and community engagement, enabling citizens to hold their leaders accountable.
What steps has the ministry taken to strengthen local governments’ financial management and revenue generation?
We have partnered with the State Revenue Service and Board to help local governments identify and develop untapped revenue sources. We have also implemented training programs on financial management and revenue collection. These efforts have significantly increased internally generated revenue, reducing reliance on federal allocations and enhancing financial independence.
Harmonizing traditional leadership with modern local government administration can be challenging. How has the ministry addressed this?
We foster collaboration between traditional councils and local government officials, especially on security and community peace. Traditional rulers serve as advisors and mediators, complementing the work of elected officials. This partnership has created a peaceful coexistence that respects both traditional authority and democratic governance, benefiting the entire state.
How has the ministry partnered with NGOs and international organizations to advance community development?
We collaborate extensively with NGOs and international agencies, particularly in agriculture and health sectors. These partnerships bring technical expertise, funding, and innovative solutions to local challenges. For example, agricultural NGOs have introduced modern farming techniques, while health-focused organizations support immunization and maternal care programs. These collaborations amplify our impact.
What role does the ministry play in disaster preparedness and response at the local level?
Our Community Development department leads disaster management efforts. We conduct risk awareness campaigns, train community members on disaster prevention, and coordinate emergency responses. This proactive approach has improved community resilience and reduced the impact of natural and man-made disasters.
Reflecting on your time as commissioner, which achievements are you most proud of?
I am proud of the tangible improvements across all 16 local governments—the infrastructure projects, peaceful traditional council installations, and strengthened community relations. These achievements reflect a strong partnership between government, traditional institutions, and the people, which is vital for sustained progress.
Finally, leadership often comes with challenges. What message do you have for local government officials and community members?
Leadership is destiny, and ultimately, it is in God’s hands. My advice is to always have the fear of God in your responsibilities,also with integrity and dedication. This principle has guided Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq and is the foundation of the new Kwara we celebrate today. I urge all leaders and citizens to embrace it for the continued prosperity of our state.