By Ali Rabiu Ali, Dutse
In a significant development, the Jigawa State Open Government Partnership (OGP) Steering Committee has renewed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement.
This renewed commitment follows a two-day retreat held in Kaduna, which brought together 36 participants, including commissioners, senior government officials, civil society leaders, and representatives of the OGP Secretariat.
During the retreat, the committee reviewed the implementation of the State Action Plan (SAP) and noted that Jigawa State has achieved over 70% of its SAP commitments. This impressive milestone demonstrates the state’s significant progress in open government reforms. The committee’s achievements underscore the state’s dedication to promoting transparency and accountability in governance.
A key highlight of the retreat was the election of Mr. Isah Mustapha, Executive Director of ELIP-Initiative, as the new Co-Chair representing Non-State Actors. In his acceptance speech, Mr. Mustapha pledged to uphold the values of transparency and inclusiveness, stating, “Together, we will drive open government reforms, foster collaboration, and ensure OGP delivers real impact for the people of Jigawa.” This statement reflects the committee’s renewed commitment to working together to promote open governance in Jigawa State.
The Steering Committee also resolved to take several key steps to enhance Jigawa State’s visibility and secure global recognition under the OGP framework. These steps include fully activating the OGP Secretariat within the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, establishing an official website and digital platforms, and developing a more inclusive SAP III with co-financing opportunities. These initiatives are expected to promote transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement in Jigawa State.
The retreat marked a significant step towards strengthening collaboration between government and civil society in Jigawa State. With renewed energy and commitment, the OGP Steering Committee is poised to drive open government reforms and ensure that the people of Jigawa State benefit from these initiatives. The committee’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement is expected to have a positive impact on the state’s governance and development.
In conclusion, the Jigawa State OGP retreat has set a new course for transparency and global recognition. With a track record of progress, new leadership, and a roadmap for global visibility, Jigawa State is well-positioned to enhance its open government reforms and promote accountability and transparency in governance.
