Project · FCDO · Nigeria Civil Situation Room

Strengthening Local Governance for Accountability and Service Delivery

Building the capacity of local government officials, women's groups, and communities to promote transparency, accountability, and citizen-responsive governance in Taraba State.

FCDO Nigeria Civil Situation Room Governance Taraba State

LGAs Covered
(Jalingo, Ardo Kola & Gassol)

Senior Staff Trained in Planning & Budgeting

Participants in Accountability Mechanisms

FCDO

Donor: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

Project Overview

Full Project Title

Strengthening Local Governance for Accountability and Service Delivery Project in Taraba State

Donor / Funder

Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) through Nigeria Civil Situation Room

Geographic Coverage

3 LGAs: Jalingo, Ardo Kola, and Gassol, Taraba State

Target Beneficiaries

Local Government Officials, Women's Groups, Community Members, Civil Society Actors

WREP Nigeria, through funding from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) via the Nigeria Civil Situation Room, implemented this governance strengthening project across three Local Government Areas in Taraba State. The project was designed to improve local accountability, build government capacity for inclusive planning and budgeting, and foster citizen-government dialogue at the grassroots level.

Project Objectives

Capacity Building: Build the capacity of local government staff in effective and inclusive planning
Performance Budgeting: Improve knowledge and skills in performance-oriented and accountable budgeting
Transparency: Promote transparency and openness in local governance processes
Citizens Services: Foster sustainable and citizen-responsive service delivery at the grassroots level

Key Activities

Inception Workshop on Strengthening Local Governance for Accountability and Service Delivery
Capacity-Building Workshop on Effective Local Government Planning, Budgeting, and Transparency
Community Engagement Forums across 3 LGAs of Taraba State
Development and Production of IEC (Information, Education & Communication) Materials
Town Hall Meetings for Beneficiaries and Budget Monitoring Committees (BMCs)
Public Expenditure Report: tracking and documenting budget utilisation
Development of Accountability Tools for sustained government monitoring
Collecting and analysing public input to integrate into local development plans

Results & Impact

• 21 senior staff trained (15 males, 6 females) from Finance, Administration, and Budget Departments: pledged to replicate training in their LGAs, improving accountability

• Strengthened trust between citizens and local authorities; documented citizen feedback integrated into local planning

• Established accountability mechanisms including WhatsApp and radio platforms for sustained stakeholder engagement (31 participants: 21 males, 10 females)

• Enhanced capacity of local government officials in planning, budgeting, and transparency

• Strengthened multi-stakeholder collaboration between government, CSOs, and communities

• Increased awareness of inclusive governance principles and documented citizen priorities for integration into local development plans

Community Voices: Case Studies

Fatima's Journey to Empowerment: Jalingo LGA

Fatima, a resident of Jalingo, had long felt marginalised from community decision-making. Through the FCDO Situation Room project, she found a platform to advocate for improved healthcare services for women and children. By attending community meetings and engaging with local officials, Fatima raised awareness and inspired others to join the conversation. Local officials in Jalingo began allocating resources toward improving healthcare facilities and involving residents in decision-making. Fatima gained empowerment and agency, becoming a community leader advocating for positive change.

Ibrahim's Journey to Accountability: Ardo Kola LGA

Ibrahim, a youth leader in Ardo Kola, was frustrated by the lack of accountability in local governance. Through the project, he engaged with civil society actors and media partners to monitor service delivery and hold officials accountable. By tracking budget allocations and advocating for transparency, Ibrahim ensured resources were effectively utilised. Citizens in Ardo Kola reported increased confidence in the integrity of their local officials, leading to improved governance and service delivery.

Amina's Journey to Participation: Gassol LGA

Amina, a woman in Gassol, felt excluded from decision-making. Through the project, she attended community meetings and raised awareness about improving access to clean water and sanitation. Her active participation inspired other women in Gassol to demand better services. Local officials prioritised the provision of clean water and sanitation facilities, engaging community members in developing solutions. Amina became a driving force for positive change, showcasing the power of citizen participation.

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