The Cross River State government has begun capacity building and utilisation training for councillors, clerks, and deputy clerks of the 18 local government legislative houses in the state.

 The training, which started on Saturday in Ogoja, the northern senatorial district, is being conducted in collaboration with the Centre for Community Policy and Strategic Development (CCPSD).

A former speaker of the state House of Assembly, John Lebo, explained that the workshop aimed to enhance participants’ capacity in service delivery, policy formulation, and legislative effectiveness.

He stressed the importance of synergy between the executive and legislative arms for effective grassroots governance, preventing rifts and mutual distrust.

He said, “This collaboration is vital for efficient grassroots administration and preventing negative relationships.’’ 

He advised against sidelining the legislative arm, noting its crucial role in the smooth functioning of local government councils and effective governance.

 “A well-trained legislative body is essential for the proper enactment and implementation of laws that benefit the community,” he said.

 Mr Lebo expressed optimism that continuous training and collaboration would better equip the legislative arm to address the needs and challenges of the people of Ogoja and Cross River.

Chairman, Ogoja Local Government Area, Christopher Agbeh, reiterated the council’s commitment to fostering a strong partnership with the legislative arm.

He emphasised that strengthening the legislative structure was crucial for sustainable development and improving the quality of life in Ogoja.

Mr Agbeh commended the organisers for their timely and critical intervention, which reinforced the capacity of local government legislative bodies.

 He encouraged councillors to contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of their communities.

 Each participant received a certificate of participation, marking the successful completion of the training in the northern senatorial district.

 The initiative aims to improve governance and leadership capabilities at the grass-roots level.

 This is by enhancing participants’ skills in service delivery, policy formulation, and legislative effectiveness.

 The three-day training for northern senatorial legislative council officials focused on legislative chamber protocols and processes, among other topics.

 The event featured various presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions aimed at deepening participants’ understanding of governance and public administration.

Papers were delivered on key areas, such as the budget process and the legislature’s role in it.

The papers aimed to provide participants with insights into budget formulation, approval, and oversight, highlighting the critical role of legislators in ensuring fiscal responsibility and transparency.

 Other papers focused on promoting sustainable community development, with sessions emphasising the role of local government legislators in driving initiatives for sustainable growth in their communities.

 The event also sought to improve effective representation and inclusivity in law-making, stressing the importance of participatory processes for sustainable growth in democratic systems.

Additionally, a paper was delivered on aligning legislative agendas with local contexts, offering strategies to address the unique economic, social, and geographical characteristics of the northern senatorial district.

The training also covered specialised topics, including legislative drafting, committee systems, and preparing legislative documents, along with strategic development planning.

 The training will also be conducted in the southern and central senatorial districts of the state.

(NAN)