By Princess Funsho Sumanu
In its commitment to Transparency and Accountability to its citizens, the Kogi State Government has officially launched the Open Government Partnership.
The steering committee was today, inaugurated by the Secretary to the State Government Dr. Mrs. Folashade Arike Ayoade, in Lokoja.
During the opening remarks, Hon. Asiwaju Idris, who serves as both the Commissioner for Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning and the co-chairman of the state actor, highlighted the program’s aim to build upon the achievements of the previous administration in terms of transparency and accountability in the state.
He emphasized the importance of ensuring value for money and effective public financial management, which he said has garnered recognition for the state both locally and internationally.
Hon. Idris reiterated the state’s commitment to advancing transparency and accountability, stating that the governor has directed that all expenditures from the first quarter be made public for scrutiny. This move aims to enhance financial management practices for the benefit of all residents.
The Commissioner also extended appreciation to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society organizations (CSOs) for their advocacy efforts in promoting government accountability and transparency standards.
Hon. Idris reaffirms the government’s dedication to collaborating with these organizations to work toward the betterment of the state.
While commending the Governor, Alhaji Usman Ododo, for ensuring Open participation, the commissioner said Open governance strives to inform the public about government actions, enhance accountability, and promote citizen participation in governance processes, and by embracing these principles, the state aims to cultivate a culture of transparency, accountability, and good governance for the welfare of its residents.
In his acceptance speech, Amb. Idris Muraina, the Co-Chairman for Non-State Actor, expressed gratitude for being part of the Open Government Partnership platform.
He highlighted the important role that non-state actors play in advocating for accountability and amplifying the voices of the people.
He noted that the establishment of the platform outlines standards for ongoing dialogue, shared responsibility, ambition, understanding, and assessment for action plan development and implementation between the government and civil society members.
This platform is a significant step in enhancing transparency, public participation, and combating corruption.
Earlier, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Folashade Arike Ayoade, reiterated the importance of the OGP as an initiative to empower citizens, combat corruption, and enhance governance through technology.
She underscored the significance of citizen participation and civil society organizations’ involvement in ensuring accountability and citizen engagement.
Finally, the State Steering Committee on Open Government Partnership represents a crucial juncture in the state’s journey toward transparency, accountability, and citizen participation.
The committee members, are
Mukadam Asiwaju idris Asiru ( Co-Chair government
Mr Idris Muraina (Co-Chair, Nonstate Actor)
Mr. Olajide Samuel member
Hon. Muizudeen Yunus member
Hon. Mohammed Muktar member
Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo member
Barr. Salami Deedat member
Hon. Wemi Jones member
Barr. Sunday Ehimoni member
Mr. Benjamin Ajodo member
Mr. Idoko Celestime member
Mr. Ebnezass Bayode member
Mr Tijani Abdulkareem member
Momoh Ahmadu member
Mr Hamza Aliu member
Mr Reuben Joshua member
Mrs. Maryam Bello member
Mr. Idris Miliki member