By Miriam Humbe
The Federal Government has commended the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) for its “Light Up the Nation” initiative, describing it as a commendable effort that will enhance security, improve community aesthetics, and stimulate socio-economic development at the grassroots.
Chris Ugwuegbulam, Head, Information & Public Relations in the OSGF disclosed this in a statement signed on Wednesday.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume gave the commendation when the leadership and the Board of Trustees of the ALGON, led by its President, Iliyasu Zakari, paid him a courtesy visit today, 1st April, 2026, in Abuja.
He commended the “Light Up the Nation” initiative by the ALGON, noting that the development is beyond beautification, improved lighting across cities and rural communities, but to also assist in deterring criminal activities and enhance the safety of people at the grassroots.
“When you light up cities and villages, you are not just improving their appearance, you are also strengthening security and creating a more conducive environment for economic activities.
“This initiative is highly commendable,” he added, while requesting detailed information on the programme for further government consideration and support.
Sen. Akume highlighted some of the deliberate efforts made by the Tinubu-led administration to revitalise and reposition the local governments across the nation as one of the tiers of government to live up to its statutory obligation through funding, urging them to demonstrate discipline, accountability, and a people-centered approach in delivering services to citizens at the grassroots level.
“I am happy to hear from you what has so far transpired in ALGON. For those of us who have worked at the local government level, this is the first time the government at the centre has paid such deliberate attention to the funding and operations of local governments.
“This is unprecedented and requires strong leadership to guide and manage these resources effectively,” he stated.
On security, he stressed that local governments are pivotal in addressing insecurity, as they are closest to the people and directly impacted by activities within their communities.
“You are directly affected by what happens in your communities. When suspicious individuals enter your environment, you are expected to identify and report them to the appropriate authorities for necessary action.
“Local governments have a major role to play in strengthening security,” he said.
Speaking earlier, the President of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Iliyasu Zakari, reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the successful implementation of the “Light Up Nigeria 774” initiative, aimed at transforming communities across all 774 local government areas in the country.
He described the initiative as a critical component of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He further revealed that ALGON is finalizing a comprehensive programme detail and will, in due course, formally present its implementation framework to the Federal Government for review and support, pledging its full alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu-led administration to bring economic development to the grassroots.
