Sokoto State is adopting Programme-Based Budgeting to enhance transparency and accountability in the 2026 budget process, with support from UNICEF and the EU SUSI Project. Speaker Tukur Bala Bodinga and Commissioner Dr. Abubakar Zayyana said the new model will align with the Governor’s Smart Points Agenda and strengthen fiscal efficiency across ministries.
The Speaker made the pledge while declaring open a two-day sensitization and training workshop on Programme-Based Budgeting held at Kamba Motel, Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State.
The event, organized by the Sokoto State Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning in collaboration with UNICEF, brought together lawmakers, ministry officials, and civil society representatives to improve capacity in fiscal planning and results-based budgeting.
Represented by the House Leader, Bello Idris, the Speaker said the Assembly is fully committed to a credible and participatory legislative process that will ensure the 2026 budget effectively meets the needs of the people.
“The appropriation law remains the most critical legislation in any parliament. We are determined to conduct the most transparent and accountable process for the approval and passage of the 2026 budget,” he said.
Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr. Abubakar Muhammad Zayyana, explained that Programme-Based Budgeting emphasizes efficiency, effectiveness, and measurable outcomes in public spending.
He commended UNICEF for its technical partnership and praised Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto for prioritizing fiscal discipline and reform. According to him, all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) will align their 2026 budgets with the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and the Governor’s Smart Points Agenda.
Head of UNICEF Sokoto Field Office, Dr. Mikel Juma, represented by Social Policy Specialist Isah Abdullahi, said UNICEF initiated Programme-Based Budgeting in three states last year and has now expanded it to three more, including Sokoto.
He lauded Sokoto’s increased budget allocation to the social sector and urged the government to ensure timely and full utilization of the funds for maximum impact.
Other speakers included the Director of Budget, Mr. Buhari Umar, and the State Chairman of the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations, Comrade Bello Gwadabawa. Participants were drawn from MDAs, local government councils, and development partners.
