MMDAs directed to maintain Nissan Patrol vehicles for Traditional Councils

The Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs has instructed Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to keep their Nissan Patrol four-wheel-drive vehicles in proper working order for use by Traditional Councils within their areas. This directive, issued on October 22, emphasizes the importance of these vehicles for facilitating official travel and engagements of Traditional Councils, which play crucial roles in local governance, customary administration, dispute resolution, community mobilization, and development.

Chief Director Amin Abdul-Rahaman emphasized that MMDAs must ensure the vehicles are well-maintained to support the movements of Traditional Councils. The Assemblies are tasked with setting up administrative arrangements to enable the use of these vehicles for official purposes, while adhering to established scheduling and accountability protocols.

They are also required to budget and arrange for routine maintenance, insurance, and other necessary operating expenses, in compliance with relevant financial and procurement regulations.

The directive clearly prohibits MMDAs from selling or transferring these Nissan Patrol vehicles, stating that no Assembly shall auction, dispose of, transfer, or otherwise dispose of its existing four-wheel-drive vehicles. They are to be preserved, repaired as needed, and maintained for the purpose of facilitating official travel by Traditional Councils, unless approved in writing by the appropriate competent authority in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

All MMDAs have been directed to prioritize this matter and instruct their administrative, transport, and finance units to promptly implement the directive. Regional Ministers are tasked with monitoring compliance by the Assemblies in their respective regions, with the directive being treated as urgent and requiring immediate action.