A non-profit organisation, Path to Peace Foundation, has launched a new project to drive accountability and participatory governance at the grassroots level in the wake of local government autonomy in Nigeria.  
 
The organisation fostering sustainable development through dialogue and community-driven solutions, is focusing on the six Area Councils of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
 
The initiative is themed: The Abuja Project: Empowering Communities for Grassroots Impact.  It stated that the task of rural development is a primary responsibility of local governments. However, rural communities, especially in the remote Area Councils of Abuja, are mostly excluded from decision-making processes, resulting in ineffective governance and unmet community needs. With the Supreme Court’s judgement of July 11, 2024, reinforcing the financial and administrative autonomy of local governments, accountability of the Area Councils has become a critical factor in quality governance and rural development.
 
Yet, there is little foundation for transparency and accountability, while most citizens remain unaware of how to engage.  The Communications Officer of the organisation, Fareedah Omiyale, said: “The Abuja Project, supported by the Nigeria Youth Futures Fund, is a timely intervention to address these challenges by strengthening autonomy and bridging the gap between local governments and citizens.
 
“This ultimately enhances efficiency, accountability, and grassroots empowerment for rural development. “The project will include fellowships, town halls, research and advocacy campaigns.”