This study assesses the role of local government administration in promoting community development in Nigeria, with a focus on Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State. Local governments, as the third tier of government, are strategically positioned to drive grassroots development through policies and programs tailored to meet the needs of their communities. However, the effectiveness of these efforts has often been questioned due to issues such as poor governance, lack of transparency, and limited citizen participation.

The study is guided by two key objectives: first, to examine the effectiveness of local government policies and programs in promoting community development in Akinyele; and second, to assess the level of community participation and engagement in these initiatives. Using a descriptive method involving surveys, interviews, and document analysis, the study found that while Akinyele Local Government has introduced several development programs in areas such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure, the impact of these initiatives has been undermined by inadequate funding, poor policy implementation, and limited citizen engagement.

Community participation was found to be low, with many residents unaware of ongoing projects or lacking opportunities to contribute to decision-making processes. The study concludes that for local governments like Akinyele to fulfill their developmental mandate, there is a critical need to strengthen administrative capacity, improve transparency, and institutionalize mechanisms for inclusive participation. These steps will not only enhance the effectiveness of local governance but also ensure that development efforts reflect the genuine needs and aspirations of the community.