Kaduna State Government pledges to address issues of social justice
From Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
The Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to tackle issues of social justice, foster equality of opportunities, and safeguard the human rights of all citizens within the state.
Speaking at the Close-Out Meeting for the Local Rights Programmes Learning organized by ActionAid Nigeria in Kaduna, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, who was represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff of Kaduna State Governor’s office, Barrister James Kanyip, highlighted the government’s efforts to enhance the social sector through increased budgetary investments.
As a result of these investments, healthcare access has been expanded in previously underserved areas, and primary and secondary education are now free and compulsory in all public schools across the state.
Additionally, the Kaduna State Government has established the Social Investment Office to coordinate and implement various social intervention programs, aimed at supporting vulnerable and impoverished populations in the state.
These interventions are meticulously executed through the utilization of the State Social Register, which presently accounts for approximately 3.9 million vulnerable individuals and over 1 million vulnerable households from all 255 wards in the State.
Barrister James Kanyip, speaking on behalf of the Deputy Governor, emphasized the government’s inclination towards collaboration and partnerships in achieving their development goals.
He lauded ActionAid Nigeria for their tireless efforts in supporting vulnerable individuals and households, advocating for women’s rights, improving access to education and healthcare, and promoting sustainable agriculture in Kaduna State.
In her welcome address, the Country Director of Actionaid Nigeria, Ene Obi, hailed the resounding impact of the Local Rights Programme across the 23 communities where it was implemented.
She praised the program for driving behavioral shifts among individuals, communities, and government institutions. As a result of this initiative, women who were once marginalized and denied opportunities in community governance and politics have been empowered, leading to a more equitable distribution of power.
“Actionaid Nigeria collaborated with youth teams, including Action Supporting Community Initiated Development (YOTASCID) and Hope for the Village Child Foundation (HFVC), to drive positive change in the region and empower communities” she revealed.
Mallam Sadiq Abubakar Bako, the Programme Manager of Hope for the Village Child Foundation, also addressed the gathering, highlighting some of the successful outcomes achieved during the project.
He stressed the importance of empowering women and educating the community about their rights. Moreover, efforts to address gender-based violence and improve education in underserved areas were emphasized, along with the active involvement of parents in their children’s education.
