Niger State Govt Engages Lapai Citizens on 2025 Budget Preparation
In a significant step towards inclusive governance, the Niger State Government, under the leadership of Governor Muhammad Umar Bago, has initiated the 2025 Zonal Citizens Engagement Forum. Held on August 20, 2024, at the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, this event focused on gathering input from citizens of Lapai, Katcha, and Agaie Local Government Areas as part of the 2025 budget preparation. Representing Governor Bago, Commissioner of Budget and Planning, Mustapha Ndajiwo, underscored the importance of the Open Government Partnership (OGP) initiative, which aims to promote citizen participation and address grassroots needs.
The forum commenced with a courtesy visit to the Emir of Lapai, His Royal Highness Alhaji Umar Tafida Bago, who lauded the government’s efforts and expressed his support for the OGP initiative. The Emir acknowledged the state’s commitment to fostering transparency and citizen engagement in the budgetary process.
During the engagement, Mohammed Musa Kirikpo, Executive Chairman of Lapai Local Government, emphasized the importance of the Open Government concept as a platform for citizens to voice their aspirations. Commissioner Ndajiwo reiterated that Governor Bago’s “New Niger Agenda” is aligned with governance strategies that will enhance socio-economic development in the state. The Permanent Secretary of the Public Service Office, Dr. James Kolo, encouraged citizens to actively participate, ensuring their input reflects the needs of their communities.
The forum also featured presentations on the 2024 Approved Budget and insights into local government budget allocations. Co-chair of the Niger OGP, Samuel Yisa, highlighted the importance of citizens shaping their future through active involvement in governance. Concluding the event, Permanent Secretary of the Niger State Planning Commission, Ramatu Umar, thanked participants for their valuable contributions and urged local governments to increase their revenue drive to better support their constituents.
