The Emir of Kano, Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II, has called for stronger collaboration between Local Government Chairmen and District Heads to accelerate grassroots development across Kano State.
The Emir made the call while declaring open a three-day capacity-building seminar organised by the Kano State Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in collaboration with ANHI Consultants International Limited,held in Kaduna.
The seminar, themed “Anti-Corruption, Good Governance, Leadership and Ethical Values,” brought together the 44 Local Government Chairmen and 56 District Heads from across Kano State.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Emir Sanusi II described the roles of Local Government Chairmen and District Heads as distinct but complementary, stressing that effective collaboration between the two institutions is critical to achieving sustainable development at the grassroots.
He explained that while Local Government Chairmen are responsible for implementing government policies and programmes, District Heads serve as custodians of religion, culture and tradition.
The Emir urged both institutions to foster mutual respect, understanding and harmonious working relationships to improve governance and service delivery at the community level.
He also commended Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for implementing projects aimed at improving the welfare of people across the state and urged District Heads to continue supporting government policies and programmes to promote sustainable development.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Mohammed Tajo Othman, described the seminar as a historic initiative designed to strengthen leadership capacity, promote accountability, reinforce ethical values and improve grassroots governance.
He said the state government would extend similar capacity-building programmes to newly appointed District Heads as well as Village and Ward Heads to further strengthen traditional institutions and local governance.
According to the Commissioner, the programme is expected to equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to enhance service delivery, strengthen institutions and improve governance at the grassroots.
“The progress recorded at the grassroots reflects the commitment of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to ensuring that development is not limited to urban centres but reaches every Local Government Area of Kano State,” he said.
Alhaji Othman also expressed appreciation to the Emir of Kano for attending and declaring the seminar open despite his busy schedule, describing his presence as a demonstration of his commitment to grassroots development and good governance.