Isiyaku Ahmed
The Permanent Secretary (PS), Kano State Ministry of Planning and Budget (MoPB), Alh Sani Abdullahi K/Mata has committed to formalize biannual interactive session with civil society organizations (CSOs) and the media.
He gave the assurance at a one-day interactive meeting with CSOs, Media and other stakeholders at the conference hall of the MoPB.
He said: “We are here to establish solid relationship between CSOs and the ministry for a common purpose of serving and bringing development to the good people of Kano State.
“We are partners in progress and we are ready to give you all the necessary cooperation and support to move Kano state forward.” Adding that, we want to work with you in manner in which there will be no clash of work or interest between us.
“I want us to focus on the common goal, and that is, to serve the people of Kano state,” he said.
Earlier, in his opening remarks, the Director Planning at the Ministry, Mukhtar Yakasai said the objective of the meeting is to rub minds on how to strengthen the existing relationship with stakeholders.
In their separate remarks, Akibu Hamisu representing CSOs and Abdulsalam Kani of the academia called on the PS to make the interactive session biannual and advocated for increase in budgetary allocation to the agricultural sector, implementation of citizens’ input in the budget and to influence other PS to conduct such interactive meetings.
The Chairperson NAWOJ and representative of people with special needs said her constituency is delighted to have their issues upheld and reflected in the budgetary processes and procedures of the state.
Another Civil Society advocate, Salisu Yusuf thanked the PS for the initiative, adding that CSOs are willing to learn from his wealth of experience to build a transformational relationship that will trickle down to the larger society.
Responding, the PS, Sani Abdullahi K/Mata said because of the importance and issues coming out of the meeting, it would be held twice a year.
He also promised the stakeholders that all the matters raised at the meeting will be looked into and appropriate actions taken.
