By; JACOB ONJEWU DICKSON
Gombe State’s commitment to fiscal transparency and accountability has earned it a significant distinction in the 2023 Fiscal Transparency Index published by BudgetIT, a reputable fiscal policy tracking organization in Nigeria.
According to a statement signed by the Director-General (Press Affairs)
Government House Gombe, Ismaila Uba Misilli, made available today, the state has been ranked an impressive 6th out of 36 states, with a commendable score of 74/100.
“This achievement reflects Gombe State’s dedication to transparent budgeting, procurement practices, and online fiscal reporting,” it said.
The report underscores Gombe State’s accomplishments in various key areas, including budget transparency, procurement transparency, the integrity of the state’s website, and fiscal transparency online. Particularly noteworthy is the state’s Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), which has been recognized as comprehensive and well-structured. The report acknowledges that Gombe State’s approved budget met several stringent criteria, while its e-procurement portal stood out for its accessibility and navigability.
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya’s administration has consistently demonstrated its commitment to fiscal transparency and accountability, earning Gombe State esteemed recognition both on a national and international level. Notably, the state recently secured the World Bank’s States Fiscal Transparency, Accountability, and Sustainability (SFTAS) award in multiple categories, a testament to the administration’s impactful efforts in prudent public resource management.
Furthermore, Gombe State achieved a remarkable 7th position in Nigeria and clinched the top spot in the North East sub-region in the Transparency and Integrity Index by the Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Integrity Watch (CETIW). This recognitions affirmed the state’s position as a role model in good governance, financial prudence, and fiscal integrity.
An associate professor and multi-disciplinary researcher, who also serves as the Director-General of Research and Documentation at the Government House, Dr. Mu’azu Shehu explained that based on his close monitoring of national and international open government and development ratings, Gombe State has performed credibly well in fiscal responsibility, transparency, and accountability. He noted that Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s leadership has been pivotal in fostering a culture of good governance and transparency, positioning Gombe State as one of the most transparent and well-governed in the nation.
The remarkable strides taken by Gombe State underscore Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s unwavering commitment to international best practices, as he continues to drive comprehensive reform to enhance the state’s public finance management structure.
