By Alhaji Yusuf, Damaturu
Yobe State Government has convened a large-scale citizens’ and stakeholders’ engagement across its three senatorial zones to gather vital input for the forthcoming 2026 Annual Budget.
The one-day event, held simultaneously in all three zones on Thursday, was organized by the State Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning in collaboration with the Network for Yobe Civil Society Organizations (NYCSO), the World Food Programme (WFP), and ActionAid.
Governor Mai Mala Buni, declared the budget dialogue open, emphasizing that public collaboration is essential for creating a trustworthy and successful budget that addresses the needs of all citizens.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Baba Mallam Wali, Governor Buni expressed deep gratitude for the widespread participation.
“The administration is thankful for the active involvement of citizens, community groups, and civil society organizations. This involvement fosters public trust and is crucial for formulating a responsive and successful budget”,said Gov.Buni
He reiterating the government’s “open-door policy” and commitment to including vulnerable groups in the state’s development.
The Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning,Mohammad Garba Gagiyo, highlighted the government’s structured approach to budgeting.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Hamidu Isa Babi, the Commissioner explained that the state’s budget is guided by the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) to ensure efficient resource allocation and fiscal discipline.
“The government aims to create a budget that reflects the will and aspirations of the people it serves. The decisions made now will determine the future of Yobe State,” Gagiyo said.
Earlier in her welcome address, the Director of Budget, Hajiya Zainab Saleh, noted that budget preparation is a constitutional duty and that citizen input is indispensable for fair and effective development. She expressed confidence that this inclusive process would result in a historic and successful budget.
The event featured direct contributions from a diverse cross-section of society. Women’s groups, trader associations, the business community, and people with disabilities presented their needs and priorities for inclusion in the 2026 budget.
A key moment came when a representative of the Network of Civil Society Organizations, Baba Kuchichi, presented a compiled list of requests from the three zones.Key recommendations included establishing a formal feedback mechanism, involving National Assembly members in future engagements, and ensuring that Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) align their requests with the state’s development plans.
The engagement marks a pivotal step in Yobe State’s efforts to ensure its annual budget is a true reflection of the people’s will and a effective tool for sustainable development