The Kogi State government has taken a significant step towards ensuring transparency and citizen participation in governance by inaugurating a steering committee on the Open Government Partnership. This initiative, spearheaded by the Secretary to the Kogi State Government, Dr. Folashade Arike Ayoade, aims to promote open government, empower citizens, fight corruption, and leverage new technologies to strengthen governance.
Dr. Ayoade emphasized the importance of the Open Government Partnership as a platform for national and sub-national governments to make concrete commitments towards transparency and accountability. She highlighted that Kogi State’s participation in this program will not only enhance transparency and accountability but also put the state on the global map in these crucial areas.
Under the leadership of His Excellency Alhaji Usman Ododo, the Kogi State government has been proactive in implementing the principles of open government. The appointment of men and women at all levels of government signifies a new era of citizen participation in governance. By adopting the OGP principles, the state aims to deepen citizen engagement and ensure accountability.
The involvement of Civil Society Organizations in this initiative further strengthens citizen participation and accountability measures. The State Steering Committee, co-chaired by the Kogi State Commissioner for Finance Budget and Economic Planning, Asiwaju Ashiru Idris, and the State Chairperson of Kogi NGO’s network, KOGONET, Idris Ozovehe Muriana, will play a crucial role in driving the OGP agenda forward.
This commitment to transparency and citizen participation is a significant milestone for Kogi State, and all stakeholders are encouraged to join hands in this global initiative for the growth and prosperity of the state. By embracing the principles of the Open Government Partnership, Kogi State is paving the way for a more accountable and responsive government that truly serves its citizens.
