By Mohammed Abubakar Dutse
A Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) an amalgamation of civil society organizations in Jigawa state has lauded the state governor, Umar Namadi for his continued interest in the education sector as seen through budgetary allocation.
The group, faulted the sectional allocation for the health sector in the 2025 appropriation bill and demanded an upward review to reflect the Abuja Declaration on the allocation to the sector.
In a statement in Dutse, the leader of the group Comr. Ukashatu Bello, who is also the State Coordinator, the budgetary allocation to education in the budget tagged: The Budget of Innovation & Transformation for Greater Jigawa.”
It will be recalled that governor Namadi, while presenting the 2025 budget to the state House of Assembly in Dutse last week said over N186 billion was allocated to the sector representing 26.2%, slightly higher than the UNESCO recommended budgetary allocation to the sector.
Key highlights include; alignment with national and international priorities, particularly the 26.2% allocation to education, exceeding UNESCO’s recommendation.
Substantial investment in capital projects (76% of the budget), demonstrating a strategic focus on infrastructure and long-term growth.
Key sectoral investments, such as N148 billion for roads and infrastructure, and a focus on renewable energy, including a 100 MW solar power plant.
The group also commended the governor on the budget’s emphasis on youth and economic empowerment by allocating a whopping N20 billion for youth empowerment and small business support.
However, the group recommended adjustments to align the budget with international best practices. Increasing the healthcare sector’s allocation to meet the 15% target set by the Abuja Declaration. Emphasizing agricultural development and food security, given Jigawa’s agrarian nature.
Strengthening transparency and accountability mechanisms to ensure effective fund utilization. Increasing local government funding to improve grassroots development.
The group urged the Jigawa State House of Assembly to prioritize the swift passage of the budget and establish a mid-year review mechanism to assess progress and reallocate resources as needed.
The ambitious plan reflects a genuine commitment to fostering sustainable development and improving the lives of Jigawa’s citizens.
He added that the substantial investment of 76% of the budget in capital projects signifies a strategic focus on infrastructure and long-term growth, which is vital for sustainable development.
He added that allocating N148 billion to roads and infrastructure demonstrates a proactive approach to unlocking economic potential and connectivity.
Jigawa been an agrarian state, Ukashatu said, there was the need for a clearer emphasis on agricultural development and food security, noting that by allocating more resources to this sector could enhance productivity, create jobs opportunity , and ensure food sufficiency in the state
He urged the state government to work out mechanisms that would ensure that funds are utilized effectively and efficiently which would build public trust and optimize development outcomes in the state.
He called on the state government to Increase local government funding noting that local governments were critical to grassroots development.
According to him, “While the N173.5 billion consolidated budget is commendable, further decentralization of funds and decision-making could improve service delivery at the community level.
He then urged the Jigawa State House of Assembly to prioritize the swift passage of this budget to enable timely implementation of its key components.
Additionally, he advocated that a mid-year review mechanism should be instituted to assess progress and reallocate resources where necessary to address emerging challenges.
He maintained that this year budget sets a strong foundation for innovation and transformation for the state.
“By addressing the identified gaps, Jigawa state will be better positioned to meet national targets and international commitments while fostering inclusive growth and development. “
