KATSINA – Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, the Governor of Katsina state has signed the Open Government Partnership (OGP) report, a global initiative aimed at fostering transparent, participatory, and accountable governance.
This followed months of strategic engagement with relevant stakeholders, including Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), as the State moves to align with OGP standards.
Alhaji Bello Husaini Kagara, the state Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning formally submitted a comprehensive report detailing the preparatory activities undertaken to ensure seamless entry into the OGP in Katsina on Tuesday.
The report highlights the significant progress made in meetings with various stakeholders, which led to several key decisions and plans being established.
One of the most notable steps is the formation of a 30-member Steering Committee, comprising equal representation from both State and Non-State actors.
This committee will oversee the implementation of OGP initiatives in the state. Additionally, a dedicated State Secretariat has been established and thematic areas for action have been identified to guide the State’s engagement in the OGP framework.
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The report, however, states that further actions include a visit to the OGP National Secretariat, the drafting of a letter of intent and the exploration of two key support windows for the State: Centre LSD and the HOPE Project.
Accordingly, Kagara has sought Governor Radda’s approval on these initiatives, including the membership of the State Steering Committee, which features representatives from key government agencies and respected civil society members.
Reacting to this development, Governor Radda has mandated the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning to continue engaging with the OGP National Secretariat to further develop action plans and letters of intent, particularly concerning the HOPE Governance and Health Project.
Governor Radda, who formally signed the OGP, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
It would be recalled that on July 12th, the Governor directed the relevant ministries to draft the State Action Plan and Independent Report Mechanism templates, reinforcing Katsina’s dedication to OGP principles.
As Katsina State progresses in its journey to becoming an OGP member, the people of the state can expect more inclusive and transparent governance practices aimed at improving public trust and driving sustainable development.
