The Socio-Economic Benefits of Creating New Local Governments: Evidence from Bauchi State
Abstract
The creation of new local governments in Nigeria has long been regarded as a strategic approach to promoting grassroots governance, accelerating development, and ensuring equitable resource distribution. This study examines the socio-economic benefits of creating new local governments in Bauchi State, focusing on how administrative decentralization enhances local participation, service delivery, and economic growth. The research adopts a descriptive survey design, combining both qualitative and quantitative data from selected newly created local government areas (LGAs). Primary data were collected through questionnaires and interviews involving local government officials, traditional leaders, and community members. Findings reveal that the establishment of new local governments has significantly improved accessibility to governance, increased infrastructural development, and enhanced citizen participation in decision-making processes. Respondents also noted improvements in rural employment opportunities, community representation, and revenue mobilization. However, challenges such as inadequate funding, administrative overlap, and political interference were identified as constraints limiting optimal performance. The study concludes that the creation of new local governments in Bauchi State contributes positively to socio-economic development by bringing government closer to the people and fostering inclusive growth. It recommends that the state government strengthen the institutional capacity of the new councils, ensure equitable allocation of resources, and minimize political interference in their administration to sustain the developmental benefits of decentralization.
