From Mika’il Tsoho, Dutse
The Jigawa State Governor Malam Umar Namadi on Monday has Inaugurated a 40 member State Open Government Partnership (OGP) committee.
The inauguration ceremony that converged both State and non state actors, took place at government house Dutse, marks another critical milestone in institutionalizing inclusive governance in the state.
Speaking during the inauguration, Governor Malam Umar Namadi called on the members of the committee to work hard and ensure justice, transparency and accountability for better Jigawa State.
“I inaugurated the committee in the name of Allah the beneficent the merciful. I charged to work hard and consolidate the OGP gains in Jigawa state”, he said.
Governor Namadi then, promised to continue working with any partners that would support the development of Jigawa State.
The committee involved commissioner of Budget and economic planning Alhaji Babangida Umar Gantsa as Co chair State Actors and Comrade Isah Mustapha as Cochair Non State Actors with 40 members 20 each from state and Non state actors, with a Planing Department and Ministry of Budget and Economic planning as Secretariat.
While delivering his speech, the co-chair Non State Actors Comrade Isah Mustapha commended governor Namadi for demonstrating exceptional dedication to advancing transparency, accountability, and citizen participation.
“Your consistent support for OGP activities has not only strengthened trust between government and citizens but has also positioned our state as a leader in open governance reforms in Nigeria”, he said.
According to him, the Steering Committee represents a platform where government and non-state actors work collaboratively to co-create, implement, and monitor reforms that directly impact the lives of our citizens. It is a clear demonstration that governance works best when it is open, participatory, and responsive.
“As we reflect on our journey so far, particularly the implementation of previous State Action Plans, we acknowledge the significant contributions of all stakeholders—government MDAs, civil society organizations, the media, development partners, and community actors—who have invested time, expertise, and resources to make OGP a success in our state.
“We are truly grateful for your commitment and partnership.
Your Excellency, while we celebrate these achievements, we are also mindful of the opportunities ahead. In this regard, we respectfully seek your continued leadership and support towards the timely finalization and launch of the State Action Plan III (SAP III)” Comrade said.
He maintained, this next phase is crucial for deepening reforms, consolidating gains, and responding to emerging governance priorities, particularly in areas such as fiscal transparency, service delivery, climate accountability, and citizen engagement.
“As non-state actors, we reaffirm our commitment to constructive engagement, evidence-based advocacy, and sustained collaboration with the government to ensure that the OGP process delivers tangible outcomes for our people.
“We stand ready to support the Steering Committee in achieving its mandate with professionalism, inclusiveness, and integrity.
He then, thanked Governor Namadi’s leadership and unwavering support, and appreciated all partners and stakeholders who have contributed to the success of the journey.
