By The Chairman of Bali Local Government Council, Hon. Habila Bala Balasa, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering infrastructure and empowering residents in line with the transformation agenda of Agbu Kefas.
Balasa made this known while fielding questions from journalists, stressing that having been elected by the people, he remains determined to serve their interests diligently and transparently.
Following the recent release of ₦100 million to each of the 16 local government chairmen in Taraba State by Governor Kefas, the Bali council boss assured residents that the funds would be judiciously utilized to execute impactful and quality projects.
He disclosed that key projects earmarked for execution include the construction of three roads and three culverts, as well as the renovation of three primary schools, among other developmental initiatives aimed at improving living standards in the area.
Ahead of his administration’s 100 days in office, scheduled to hold in less than two weeks, Balasa revealed that several projects have already been completed and will be commissioned during the anniversary celebration.
According to him, within less than one year in office, the council has funded and printed a security document worth millions of naira, alongside other projects executed through the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the local government. He described this as evidence of prudent financial management.
“I denied myself a lot of things just to deliver. I didn’t know the government would come to our aid, so I didn’t wait. We translated what we were getting into tangible benefits for our people. It is not magic but prudent management,” he stated.
Balasa also advised fellow council chairmen to cut down on unnecessary expenditures and focus on governance to enable them deliver meaningful dividends of democracy to their constituents.
On security, he described Bali Local Government as relatively peaceful, noting that regular security meetings are held with security chiefs and traditional rulers to promote peaceful coexistence.
“We have been engaging traditional leaders periodically, emphasizing that when we see something, we should say something. We want our people to sleep with their two eyes closed,” he added.
To ensure youth inclusion in governance, the chairman disclosed that the council has absorbed qualified and willing young people into the civil service to replace deceased staff members, thereby giving them a sense of belonging.
Commenting on the ongoing payment of pensions and gratuities to retirees in the state, Balasa commended Governor Kefas for addressing the plight of senior citizens, noting that he is also a beneficiary of the gesture. He said the funds would go a long way in helping retirees meet medical and other essential needs in their old age.
