By; MURTALA ADOGI MOHAMMED
The State Level Fuel Subsidy Mitigants provided to states by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu presents a significant opportunity to drive inclusive development and poverty reduction across the nation.
To ensure effective and equitable utilization of these funds, it is imperative for the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) to adopt a uniform tool or template for monitoring and measuring the impact of the mitigants. This justification stems from various reasons that underscore the importance of a standardized approach.
1. Transparent Resource Allocation: A uniform monitoring and measuring tool will promote transparency and accountability in the allocation of the State Level Fuel Subsidy Mitigants. By providing a standardized framework, the NGF can ensure that the funds are distributed fairly among states based on their specific needs and priorities.
2. Consistent Impact Assessment: A uniform tool will enable states to consistently assess the impact of the mitigants on key sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and poverty reduction. This approach will allow for meaningful comparisons and benchmarking, enabling states to learn from each other’s successes and challenges.
3. Evidence-Based Decision Making: A standardized monitoring and measuring tool will facilitate evidence-based decision making at both the state and national levels. Accurate data and information will guide policymakers in identifying effective interventions, allocating resources strategically, and targeting areas that require further attention.
4. Efficient Resource Utilization: A uniform tool will help states optimize resource utilization by identifying areas of overlap, duplication, and gaps in project implementation. This streamlined approach will prevent wastage and ensure that funds are directed towards projects with the highest potential for impact.
5. Harmonized Reporting: A consistent monitoring and measuring tool will simplify the reporting process for states, ensuring that accurate and relevant data is provided to the NGF. This will enable the NGF to compile comprehensive reports on the overall impact of the mitigants, facilitating informed decision making at the national level.
6. Enhanced Accountability: A standardized approach will enhance accountability by enabling citizens, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to monitor and evaluate the progress of projects funded by the mitigants. Transparent reporting will strengthen public trust and confidence in government initiatives.
7. Aligning with National Agendas: The adoption of a uniform tool aligns with national agendas such as the Nigerian Agenda 2050 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Consistent monitoring and measuring of impact will contribute to the achievement of these broader goals by ensuring targeted investments in priority areas.
The Nigerian Governors’ Forum should embrace the adoption of a uniform monitoring and measuring tool for the State Level Fuel Subsidy Mitigants.
This approach will enhance transparency, accountability, and efficient resource utilization while promoting evidence-based decision making and consistent impact assessment. By working together, states can maximize the positive effects of these mitigants and accelerate the nation’s journey towards sustainable development and poverty reduction.
Murtala Adogi Mohammed PhD
Founder/Executive Director
mamurtala@gmail.com
System Strategy & Policy Lab
Abuja, Nigeria
