Ali Rabiu Ali
The Jigawa Tax Justice Network has appreciated Jigawa state government for its quick response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic since the lockdown was declared last year.
The coalition also commend Jigawa government for timely publication of the state auditor general’s report and making it accessible public.
The State Coordinator of the Coalition, Muhammad Musbahu Basirka in a press conference in Dutse on Thursday, said providing space for citizens participation in budget processes and the establishment of Jigawa state Bureau of Statistics will promote transparency and accountability in governance, adding that, “it also portrays that government and civil society organizations in the state are working to reform public financial management.
“We call on government to sustain these laudable initiatives of engaging the public in budget process at all levels.
“In addition, other key processes we want government to maintain are the timely publication of policy statements, budget documents, and financial reports because it will increase trust between citizens and government.
“Government should also support private sector and civil society’s role in promoting its actions and citizens’ resilience.
According to Basirka, it is hoped that with the level of transparency of the current administration under Governor Muhammadu Badaru Abubakar, the proposed N18.7 billion loan will be judiciously used for the development of critical infrastructure that will benefit the people of Jigawa state.
“There is nothing bad in borrowing provided such borrowing is going to be use and invested in providing critical infrastructure that will boost the internally generated revenue of the state; create jobs and enabling environment for the growth of the economy.”
He said the coalition will track the fund to ensure judicious utilization, accountable democracy, and a transparent government.
Comrade Basirka thanked the Jigawa state House of Assembly for approving the loan and recognized technocrats in government, traditional leaders, Ulama and other relevant stakeholders for their tireless effort to ensure peace and unity among citizens in the state.
