Barau hails local government autonomy, tax reforms under Tinubu
By Ahmed Ahmed
The Special Adviser to the Ambassador of the North East Renewed Hope Agenda, Alhaji Salisu Ahmed Barau has commended the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as landmark reforms in local government autonomy and the ongoing tax restructuring process.
Barau made the commendation while speaking on the objectives of the North East Renewed Hope Agenda, a regional initiative aimed at promoting public understanding of federal government policies and strengthening grassroots engagement across the region.
Ahmed Barau, who is also a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bauchi State said the initiative, coordinated under the leadership of former Bauchi State Governor Isa Yuguda as regional ambassador, is designed to bridge the gap between government programmes and citizens through effective communication and civic education.
According to him, the recognition of local government financial autonomy through judicial pronouncement marks a turning point in Nigeria’s governance structure.
He explained that direct allocation of funds to local councils would significantly enhance service delivery at the grassroots level and reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks that have long hindered development.
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Barau also praised the administration’s tax reform agenda, noting that once fully implemented, it would improve revenue generation, promote fairness in taxation, and expand the fiscal capacity of government to deliver infrastructure and social services across the country.
He argued that the reforms are part of a broader effort to reposition Nigeria’s governance framework and strengthen institutions in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on economic recovery, security improvement, agricultural growth, and infrastructure development.
While acknowledging the challenges of insecurity, Barau maintained that it remains a national issue requiring collective action from all stakeholders.
He added that lessons from previous administrations, including that of former President Muhammadu Buhari, should guide ongoing efforts to build a more stable and prosperous country.
Barau urged stakeholders in the North East to continue supporting federal reforms, stressing that sustainable development can only be achieved through cooperation, informed civic participation, and unity of purpose.
