Jigawa State Government has responded to recent criticisms by opposition parties regarding its Citizens’ Engagement Programme, noting that it is not seeking validation or praise from them.

Speaking during an interview with journalists at the Citizens’ Engagement Programme held in Birniwa Local Government Area, the Commissioner for Information, Youth, Sports and Culture, Sagir Musa Ahmed, addressed the concerns raised by the opposition.

The programme, locally known as “Gwamnati da Jama’a”, was initiated by the Governor of the state, Umar Namadi to provide residents across the 27 local government areas of the state an opportunity to voice their needs and grievances directly to government officials.

It was also designed to foster direct communication between the government and the people of Jigawa.

The programme allows the government to disseminate information on its ongoing projects and initiatives.

However, opposition parties, including the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and People’s Democratic Party (PDP), criticised the initiative, arguing that it has deviated from its intended purpose.

The opposition parties also argued that citizens are not given the opportunity to express their views regardless of political affiliation.

Responding to these criticisms, Sagir said the state government is not seeking validation from opposition parties but is focused on addressing the genuine needs and aspirations of the people.

“The government is not expecting praise from the opposition. What matters most to us is meeting the expectations of our citizens,” he stated.

He explained that the programme ensures broad representation, including delegates from every political ward, civil society organizations, farmers’ groups, and other development associations within each local government.

“I don’t think it is necessary to dwell on what the opposition is saying. In anything you do, there will always be critics. But what is important is that for the first time in Jigawa’s history, the governor, alongside other members of the executive, judiciary, and legislature, are coming together to engage directly with the people and seek their input,” he added.

Sagir emphasised that the government is committed to serving the people of Jigawa State.

“We are focused on the good people of the state, and pleased to see that they are happy and satisfied with what the government is doing. Everyone is entitled to their opinion. This is a democracy.”