On Tuesday, 8th October, The Executice Chairman of Kaita Local Government Area in Katsina State, Mr. Bello Lawal, has been elected as the new National President of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON). His election took place during the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital, on October 8, 2024.
Mr. Lawal succeeds Aminu Mu’azu Maifata, the outgoing Chairman of Lafia Local Government Area, whose tenure as ALGON’s national president came to an end the same day. The election was overseen by the National Chairman of the Board of Trustees of ALGON, Chief Odunayo Ategbero.
In his acceptance speech, Mr. Lawal expressed gratitude to the NEC members for their confidence in his leadership. He pledged to continue the work of his predecessor and focus on implementing the local government autonomy recently approved by the Supreme Court. Lawal emphasized the importance of unity among ALGON members in achieving the association's goals.
“I am deeply honoured by this responsibility, and I assure you all that I will give my very best to further the cause of this great organization. With the support of every member, I am confident that we can push the objectives of ALGON to a desirable end, especially in the ongoing struggle for local government autonomy,” he stated.
Mr. Lawal also called on members to work collaboratively with him to enhance governance at the local level, which is crucial for the development of Nigeria’s grassroots communities.
The outgoing president, Mr. Aminu Mu’azu Maifata, urged ALGON members to give their full support to the new leadership. He praised the NEC for conducting a transparent and peaceful election, expressing confidence in Mr. Lawal’s ability to lead the association effectively.
This leadership transition marks a new chapter for ALGON as the association continues its efforts to advocate for local government autonomy and better governance at the grassroots level across Nigeria.
