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By Abbas Bamalli
Stakeholders have recommended for an effective oversight of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in Katsina state, by the legislative arm of government in the state.
The stakeholders made the recommendation in a communique issued at the end of a 4-day capacity building workshop for the legislators held in Kano.
The objectives of the meeting was to improve the understanding of the legislators on Fiscal Responsibility, and Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF).
The meeting was also at building the capacity of participants on annual revenue/expenditure planning, fiscal expenditure priorities that will guide the achievement and objectives of the development plan.
Also to review budget systems and performance, and also to strengthen the role of legislators in championing public financing for children.
The communique was prepared by a committee, presented to the participants where some corrections were made before adoption during the session Chaired by the Speaker of the state assembly, Alhaji Nasir Daura.
According to the recommendation, the effective oversight function by the lawmakers alongside other recommendations will also ensure effective service delivery by all the MDAs in the state.
The committee also recommended a policy dialogue with religious leaders (IMAMs and ULAMAs), a study tour to Malaysia or Indonesia for EXCO members and Legislators on Zakat & Waqaf.
Also recommended for a technical session on Result Based Management (RBM) to legislators and relevant stakeholders, and recruitment of more technical staff to the Fiscal Responsibility Commission.
The communique committee also recommended the establishment of a budget research office, a technical session on MTEF for relevant stakeholders, and suggested the amendment of the FRC law to be in tune with global best practices.
A roundtable session with the stakeholders on the State Development Plan (SDP) should be organised with a view to designing a road-map on SDP based on the vision and Plan.
All Receipts from donor agencies are captured in the budget for ease of reference, and also stakeholders willing to support the state should be given room to do so, Zakat and Waqf Commission should also contribute to the budget.
Also that legislators should endeavour to prioritise the issues of children in budgeting across social sectors.
In his closing remarks, the speaker said that with the recent establishment of the state’s Fiscal Responsibility Commission, they understand the crucial need for effective collaboration to ensure its success.
He said that, “I extend our heartfelt appreciation to UNICEF for the training and for their support and dedication toward the development of our state.
“The success of this event is a testament to the commitment and hard work by all involved. Let’s carry forward the spirit of cooperation and partnership for the betterment of the state.”
Participants were officials of the Ministry of budget and economic planning, Finance and Local government, Fiscal Responsibility Commission other MDAs among others.
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