Collaboration of critical institutions is imperative to meeting the needs of Nigerians at the grassroots, Bello Lawal, says the president of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria.

Mr Lawal said this on Tuesday in Abuja at the opening of the fourth edition of the Local Government Economic Summit Group.

He specifically called on critical institutions to collaborate with local governments to improve the lives of Nigerians and enable them to discharge their civic responsibilities.

He said ALGON was exploring initiatives such as farm settlements and small-scale farming projects, which local governments would own with the support of various partners.

“Additionally, we plan to explore the potential of organic farming, even as we address challenges like farm insecurity and banditry.

“We will also work closely with the Infrastructure Bank Plc, the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) and the Bank of Industry (BOI).

“We will equally partner others to create a comprehensive framework that attracts significant funding for local governments across the country,” he said.

Mr Lawal added that the concept of an investment basket developed by the LGESG was promising, but its success would depend on their ability to collaborate and implement it effectively.

He noted that local governments had long been the cornerstone of thriving rural communities and the driving force behind worldwide micro, small and medium enterprise development.

“We must resolve to work together to usher in a new era of hope for the citizens of our country, most of whom reside in local communities,” he said.

He noted that the financial autonomy granted to LGAs presented a new era where local governments could now create an environment that empowered the rural poor to fulfill their economic, social, and political aspirations.

He expressed confidence in the hardworking nature of Nigerians at the grassroots.

(NAN)