The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) has elected the chairman of Kaita Local Government area and Katsina state ALGON Chairman, Bello Lawal from Katsina State as its new president.
The election took place during the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the association, held on Tuesday in Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital.
The election follows the expiration of the tenure of Aminu Mua’zu Maifata, the former Chairman of the Lafia local government area whose tenure ends on October 8, 2024.
The transition was overseen by the National Chairman of the Board of Trustees of ALGON, Chief Odunayo Ategbero.
Bello Lawal was elected alongside other officials to mantle the leadership of the association.
In his acceptance remarks, Bello Lawal expressed gratitude to the NEC members for entrusting him with the leadership of the association and vowed to build on the achievements of his predecessor to ensure that ALGON champions the autonomy of local governments in the country.
He said, “I am deeply honoured by this responsibility, and I assure you all that I will give my very best to further the cause of this great organization,” Lawal stated. “With the support of every member, I am confident that we can push the objectives of ALGON to a desirable end, especially in the ongoing struggle for local government autonomy.”
Lawal called for unity among members, emphasizing the need for cooperation to achieve their common goals. “I appeal to all members to work together with me to achieve the vision we all share for strengthening governance at the local level,” he added.
The outgoing President, Aminu Mu’azu Maifata, in his farewell speech, congratulated Lawal and urged ALGON members to extend their full support to the new leadership. He praised the NEC for conducting a peaceful and transparent election, expressing confidence in Lawal’s ability to steer the association in the right direction.
“I have no doubt that Bello Lawal will lead ALGON to greater heights. I call on all of you to give him the same cooperation you gave me during my tenure,” Maifata said during the handover ceremony.