The Ekiti State Government is calling on local councils to focus on fiscal discipline and wisely allocate resources to improve conditions at the grassroots level.
Folorunso Olabode, the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, made this call on Monday, August 25, during a workshop in Ado Ekiti. The workshop was designed to help local government officials prepare the 2025-2027 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), a three-year planning tool that aligns budgeting with developmental goals.
Olabode emphasized the need for local councils to address community needs and agriculture in their 2025 budgets to boost food security. He said, “Local government financial autonomy is crucial for effective planning and resource management. We need to use our resources efficiently and focus on programs that will significantly impact our citizens’ lives.”
The commissioner acknowledged that while Governor Biodun Oyebanji had kept his promise not to interfere with council funds, the governor remains dedicated to grassroots development. He stressed the importance of involving stakeholders and incorporating community feedback into budget plans to ensure they meet local needs.
Olabode also urged local councils to prioritize agriculture and support local farmers in their 2025 budgets. He added, “We’re working with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to clear land for farming across councils. Additionally, we’ll focus on constructing 5km roads in each local government area, as directed by the governor.”
Niyi Adebayo, the Commissioner for Budget, Economic Planning, and Performance Management, highlighted that the workshop aimed to teach fiscal discipline and effective use of the MTEF. He said, “The budget should reflect the people’s needs and aspirations. Engaging in participatory budgeting is key to understanding what the people want and ensuring effective implementation.”
Maryam Ogunlade, Chairman of the Ekiti State House of Assembly Committee on Local Governments, urged officials to follow the MTEF guidelines closely. She explained that proper implementation would help achieve strategic goals like poverty reduction and job creation, as well as improve economic activity and safety.
“The MTEF helps balance policy priorities with budget realities, making it easier to prioritize spending and make informed decisions for the well-being of our communities,” Ogunlade said.
