UNICEF trains Katsina lawmakers on budgeting, implementation

The Kano Field office of UNICEF has begun a two-day capacity building programme on result-based budget management and implementation for Katsina lawmakers.

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Speaking at the opening of the training on Monday, Alhaji Bello Kagara, the Commissioner of Budget and Economic Planning, said that legislative duties went far beyond passage of budgets.

Represented by the Director, Planning, Kagara said that the training was aimed at evolving suitable strategies towards achieving result-based budget implementation in the state.

The commissioner said that the budget process was not a mere technical exercise, but a fundamental component of governance that demanded full attention.

“The responsibilities of legislators go beyond the approval of the budget. They have a duty to ensure that public funds are effectively utilized by ministries, departments and agencies of government

“This involves not only overseeing the allocation of resources, but also ensuring that the resources translate into tangible results that benefit the people.

“You may wish to note that budgetary matters are of immense significance to all stakeholders, this is because they directly impact the nation’s development,” he said.

“Result-based budget management provides a strategic framework that emphasizes the achievements of outcomes and the efficient use of resources.

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“By focusing on result-based management, your oversight functions will effectively drive implementation of policies, reduce wastage, and enhance accountability.

“We all know that the challenges facing oversight functions of our distinguished legislators are numerous, but they are not insurmountable,” he said.

Kagara said that with the right attitude and commitment, lawmakers in the state would ensure that budgets led to real and measurable improvements.

He said that proper budget implementation was essential towards promoting transparency, reducing implementation gap and preventing mismanagement of public funds.

In his speech, the Speaker, Alhaji Nasir Yahaya-Daura, described the training as an essential step for service delivery in governance.

“This workshop is a testament to our collective efforts towards building a more prosperous and sustainable future for our people.

“As an assembly, we are dedicated to supporting initiatives that promote transparency, accountability and result-based management.

“We believe that this approach will enhance the efficiency of our budget implementation process, and improve the living standard of our people,” he said.

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