LCDF partners Gombe ministry for Citizens’ Accountability Report meeting
The Lawanti Community Development Foundation has partnered with the Gombe State Ministry of Economic Development to host Citizens’ Accountability Report Consultative Meeting on Gombe State’s 2022 Audited Financial Report.
Our correspondent reports that the event took place at the Akko Local Government Council Chamber in Gombe State, drawing a broad array of key stakeholders and members of civil society.
The programme began with an insightful address from Mr Alim Gideon, the Senior Budget Officer of the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development.
Speaking on behalf of both the Commissioner for Finance and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, emphasised the ministry’s dedication to responsible budget management, ensuring that allocated funds are used effectively for capital and public-interest projects.
In addition, Mr Abubakar Fusami, the Director of Internal Audit at the Accountant General’s office in Gombe State, represented the Accountant General, highlighted the rigorous financial oversight efforts undertaken by the Gombe State Auditor General’s Office, ensuring that every expenditure during projects is meticulously accounted for.
Collaboration with the Ministry of Finance plays a key role in overseeing financial activities without any irregularities.
Further adding to the significance of the meeting was the address by the Secretary of the Akko Local Government Council in Gombe State, Mr Abubakar Barambu, welcomed the gathering and emphasised its importance to the people of Gombe Central Senatorial Zone, emphasising its relevance to both the Akko and Yamaltu-Deba local government areas.
Idris Lawanti, the programme’s manager, expressed his satisfaction at the large turnout and extended gratitude to the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development for facilitating a platform for the public to voice their preferences for projects, starting from the ward level.
Participants came from Akko and Yamaltu-Deba local government areas, including notable individuals like Abubakar Yusuf Ubandoman Tumu, Babangida Umar Yamaltu-Deba, and Aishatu Ahmad, Chairperson of the Concerned Citizens for Women, Akko Local Government Chapter.
They took the opportunity to express their gratitude to the Gombe State Government, the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development, and the Lawanti Community Development Foundation for providing a forum for public input on Gombe State’s budget and development project allocations across all eleven local government areas.
Simultaneously, similar meetings are taking place in the three geopolitical zones of Gombe: Gombe Central in Akko LGA, Gombe South in Billiri LGA, and Gombe North in Gombe Local Government Area. These events collectively represent a concerted effort to strengthen financial transparency, public engagement, and accountability in Gombe State.
The primary focus of the meeting was to foster an atmosphere of responsibility, collaboration, and financial transparency. The 2022 Audited Financial Report was a central point of discussion, enabling participants to raise questions and concerns.
The event underscored a commitment to good governance, aiming to strengthen financial transparency and accountability in Gombe State. Through these conversations and dialogues, it is expected that governance and public resource utilisation will be enhanced for the betterment of the community.
This collaborative effort between LCDF and the Gombe State Ministry of Economic Development sets the stage for improved financial accountability and responsible governance in the state.
Cov. Abubakar Abdullahi
