The Jigawa State Government has recently inaugurated a new state steering committee to oversee the implementation of the Open Governance Partnership (OGP), which had been inactive for several years.
Speaking at a workshop on strengthening the OGP structure in Jigawa State, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Babangida Umar Gantsa, emphasized the need to review the action plan, reinforce OGP activities, and foster collaboration with civil society organizations in the state.
The Open Governance Partnership (OGP) is a global initiative that Nigeria, including Jigawa State, has joined. It aims to promote transparency, citizen participation, and governmental accountability. Gantsa highlighted that the Governor of Jigawa State, being an advocate for openness and transparency, is committed to ensuring the state excels in all aspects.
As part of the new OGP state steering committee, Aminu Danmalam has been appointed as co-chairman alongside other state and non-state actors. The committee’s primary objectives are to support the current administration’s 12-point agenda and uphold the state’s reputation for fiscal discipline, transparency, and accountability.
Hajia Ramatu Bello, representing the National Coordinator of OGP, Gloria K. Ahmed, from the Federal Ministry of Budget, stated that Nigeria became the 70th member country to join the OGP in July 2016. She further highlighted that out of the 36 states in Nigeria, only 11 are yet to become members of the OGP, and efforts are underway to ensure their participation.
The establishment of the new OGP state steering committee reflects the commitment of the Jigawa State Government to uphold transparency, citizen engagement, and accountability in governance. It serves as a significant step towards promoting good governance practices and fostering development in the state.
