In the first nine months of 2025, the Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs (FMSDIGA) has successfully validated and endorsed approximately 110 Zonal Intervention and Constituency Projects.
Honorable Zephaniah Bitrus Jisalo, the Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, announced this achievement during the ministry’s third quarter Stakeholders and Citizens Engagement Forum. The event, held in Abuja on Monday, was themed “Enhancing Inclusive Governance through Regional Cooperation and Grassroots Involvement.”
According to Minister Jisalo, these zonal and constituency initiatives cover a broad spectrum of sectors including healthcare, education, water supply, energy, and empowerment programs. He emphasized that these projects have significantly benefited local communities by boosting economic activities and improving access to essential services.
Represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Onwusoro Maduka Ihemelandu, the minister highlighted FMSDIGA’s efforts to enhance oversight and financial transparency for Constituency Projects. This has been achieved through a strategic partnership with the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation.
Jisalo also pointed out the ministry’s commitment to digital innovation, noting the deployment of an Enterprise Content Management System (ECM) and the ongoing rollout of an automated Performance Management System (PMS). These technological advancements are designed to foster greater efficiency and transparency in service delivery.
Further, the minister shared that the ministry is actively engaging with the NACCIMA Youth Entrepreneurs (NYE) initiative to promote inclusive governance. This includes supporting Nigerian artisans and technicians by enhancing vocational training, fostering intergovernmental cooperation, and advancing digital skills development, recognizing their vital contribution to inclusive economic growth.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary reaffirmed the ministry’s dedication to advancing local government autonomy. He stated, “Our participation in the Nigeria Local Government Development Summit was focused on advocating for the enforcement of the Supreme Court’s decision on Local Government autonomy. We are convinced that sustainable development starts at the grassroots level, and our initiatives are fully aligned with the President’s 8-Point Renewed Hope Agenda.”
