By Iyemah David
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has commended the recent Supreme Court ruling on local government autonomy, saying that the move is crucial for prompt outbreak response.
The Director-General of the centre, Dr Jide Idris, said this during a news conference in Abuja on Tuesday.
The apex court ruling has solidified the autonomy of local governments in the country, granting them direct funding and the authority to make critical decisions without state government interference.
The NCDC boss said the Supreme Court judgment would significantly bolster the country’s ability to respond to outbreaks.
He highlighted the crucial role that local governments play in disease surveillance, public awareness and initial health crisis response.
Dr Idris added that “with greater autonomy, local governments can swiftly mobilise resources, implement health interventions and effectively engage communities.”
He expressed optimism that the move would enhance timeliness in outbreak response at the grassroots.
The DG said “local governments are often the first to detect and report outbreaks, providing vital data to state and federal health authorities.
“They also play crucial roles in public education, vaccination campaigns and enforcement of quarantine measures. With enhanced autonomy, these activities can be conducted swiftly and effectively.”
He underscored the essential role of community health workers and primary health centres managed by local governments in treating affected individuals and preventing disease spread.
He urged local government leaders to seize the opportunity to strengthen their health systems.
Dr Ishaku Akyala, the Associate Professor of Infectious Diseases and Public Health Epidemiology in Nasarawa State, also hailed the apex court ruling, describing it as “a significant step toward fortifying robust and responsive public health infrastructure.”
Dr Gabriel Adakole, a public health expert, stressed the importance of coordinated efforts among local, state and federal governments in responding to disease outbreak in the country.
He highlighted the roles of local governments in surveillance, reporting, health education, and community engagement, alongside coordinating responsibilities of state governments and policy implementation by federal agencies like the NCDC.
“These coordinated roles will ensure comprehensive approach to managing and mitigating outbreaks, safeguarding public health nationwide,” he added.
