Yobe partners NGOs on budget planning

In an effort to encourage citizens to effectively participate in its budgetary process and ensure transparency in governance, the Yobe State government, in collaboration with Non-governmental Organisations, have organised a town hall meeting to pave the way for an inclusive 2025 budget process.

The event, which was organised at the Damaturu Cultural Center on Thursday, attracted participants from across the various communities and opinion leaders, civil society groups, the media, and policymakers to discuss budget processes and priorities.

In his remarks, the Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni noted that “The present administration has always maintained an open door policy in conducting its activities which serves as a strong basis for mutual understanding between the government and the governed.

“This is the reason why we find it easier to achieve major successes in our budget formulation and implementation.

“The massive participation of civil society organisations, community-based organisations and other stakeholders, including the vulnerable or under-privileged members of the society, is a clear indication that our administration is carrying everyone on board in the development of the state,” he said.

Bunu added that “The remarkable achievements we have recorded so far in the areas of roads construction, the building of modern markets, educational development, standard healthcare delivery, agricultural revitalisation, provision of decent and affordable houses and other drives were all dependent on good budget formulation and implementation of which all good people of Yobe State have immensely contributed to.

“We are here to appreciate the contributions of all and sundry and enjoin all participants to this annual event to continue to provide valuable inputs for us to sustain and improve on the achievements already recorded in our collective dream of having a more stable and prosperous Yobe State.

“In this respect, I would like to assure all participants and the entire good people of Yobe State that we have resolved to continue with our bottom-up approach to ensure that the budget reflects the priorities of the people who this administration is ever-determined to serve. Therefore, I wish to enjoin all participants to continue to exhibit maturity in making their contributions as well noted in the previous exercises,” the governor stated.

Bunu, who was represented by his Deputy, Idi Barde Guban, also stressed that the keys to the success of any budgetary process is the adherence to due process as well as upholding accountability, transparency and prudent management of public funds that are tied to effective monitoring and evaluation.

Continuing, he maintained, “Therefore, I wish to stress the importance of good supervision, monitoring and evaluation in the execution of all contracts awarded by the concerned MDAS”.

On his part, the Humanitarian and Resilience Manager of ActionAid Nigeria, David Habba, who was Represented by the Project Manager, Kenneth Unuafe remarked that “It is a privilege to stand before you today as we gather for this important consultative meeting.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with the World Food Programme and the Yobe State Ministry of Budget and Planning to address the pressing challenges facing many communities in Yobe State.”

Habba pointed out, “As many of you know, the North-East of Nigeria has faced over 12 years of violent conflict, particularly affecting the BAY states.

“This enduring crisis has led to the displacement of millions, devastating agricultural production, and disrupting essential services such as water, sanitation, health, and education.

“The cumulative effects of conflict, compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic, floods and climate change, have created a humanitarian situation that demands our urgent attention and concerted action.

“At ActionAid, we recognise that food security and livelihood interventions must extend beyond mere material support.

“While enhancing access to food and livelihoods is vital, we can not overlook the importance of protection and social cohesion.

“The negative coping mechanisms that many community members have resorted to-such as forced and child marriages, begging, and the distress sale of assets-are stark reminders of the urgent need to integrate protective aims into our programming,” he said.

In his conclusion, the ActionAid manager maintained, “Today’s meeting serves a dual purpose; to gather valuable insights from you, the community, and to inform the planning process for the 2025 state budget.

“Your voices and experiences are critical.

“By sharing your challenges, you enable the state to better understand the needs of your communities and to advocate for solutions that are not only effective but also respectful of your dignity and rights.

“For us At ActionAid Nigeria, through collaborative efforts, we aim to continue to create community-tailored social cohesion and protection programs that restore community structures and promote peaceful coexistence.

“We envision a future where all community members have access to livelihood opportunities and essential services, fostering an environment where individuals can thrive and rebuild their lives.

“In the spirit of inclusivity and accountability, I encourage each of you to actively participate in today’s discussions. Your recommendations will not only shape our initiatives but will also play a crucial role in guiding the Yobe State Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning as they prepare for the upcoming budget cycle.

“Let us work together to strengthen local frameworks that support social cohesion, enhance community ownership of our initiatives, and ensure transparency in the planning and implementation processes. By doing so, we can pave the way for sustainable solutions that address the complexities of our situation and promote long-term resilience”.

Also commenting, the Chairman House Committee on Finance and Appropriations, Ibrahim Buba kalallawa represented by a Member of the Committee, Ishaku Sani Audu, commended the organisers of the event for taking the initiative and reflecting the voices of the common men and inclusion of their actual yearnings and aspirations of project and social services.

The Commissioner, Ministry of Budget and Economic planning, Alhaji Mohammad Garba Gagiyo informed the gathering that, “The Ministry is responsible for providing an effective framework for resources allocation, monitoring and evaluation and consistent with the state development goals.

According to the Commissioner, “The development of the realistic budget over the years has earned the state rewards in cash and kinds from several national and international organisations that have shown interest in the way and manner public resources are generated and utilised in the interest of citizens of the state.”

During an earlier introductory remark, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Alhaji Hamidu Isa Babi, urged the participants to continue to provide valuable inputs for the 2025 budget formulation and implementation.