Governor Usman Ododo has promised to place Kogi State on the global map in the areas of accountability, transparency and citizen participation.
He made the promise while inaugurating the State Steering Committee (SSC) for implementation of the Open Government Partnership (OGP) in Lokoja on Tuesday.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Folashade Arike Ayoade, Governor described the inauguration of the committee as a reinforcement of his governments’ commitment to issues of transparency.
He added that the present administration believes in transparency and open governance through having an inclusive budget that includes public opinion in budget preparation which has been in practice over the years.
The Governor assured that the State Government will continue to sensitize the people on it activities with the inauguration of the OGP, insisting that every expenditure in the State has been made open, because of its believe in transparency, accountability and openness.
“As we all know, the present administration has been in the forefront in practicing and implementing the principles of open government.
“The involvement of citizens in governance has assumed a whole new dimension with the appointment of men and women in all levels government.
“Adopting the OGP principles will provide a stronger platform that will deepen the existing citizen participation that is already fostered in the State.
“The involvement of Civil Society Organisations in this programme is also a new way of ensuring effective citizens participation and ensuring accountability.
“It is in this light that I enjoin all the members to by-in into this global Initiative for the growth and prosperity of Kogi State,” he said.
Earlier in his remarks, Hon. Asiwaju Asiru Idris, Kogi State Commissioner For Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, said the State has attained another milestone with the inauguration of the OGP State Steering Committee.
He said the State had in the last eight years made transparency, accountability and open governance a top most priority, reason why it has been rated high by the international community and other financial organizations.
He assured that with the inauguration of the OGP steering committee, governance will be brought to the doorsteps of the citizens amidst transparency and accountability.
“Kogi is waxing stronger in transparency and accountability in governance. The dynamic Governor, Alhaji Usman Ododo is building on the same platform that earned the state international accolades.
“Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has directed to be furnished with quarterly financial management and budget performance reports for scrutiny. This goes a long way to show the Governor’s commitment to probity and accountability,” Asiru said.
The Commissioner commended CSOs for their relentless effort and assured them of continued collaboration in the interest of Kogi State.
In his acceptance speech, Amb. Idris Ozovehe Muraina, co-chairman of the steering committee, said the inauguration marked a significant milestone in their collective journey towards transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement in governance.
He expressed gratitude to all the individuals and organizations who have worked tirelessly to make the partnership a reality.
“It will be recalled that Kogi State government signed up to the platform back in 2021.
“The official inauguration of the Open Government Partnership in Kogi State represents a new chapter in our efforts to foster greater transparency, enhance public participation, and combat corruption. As non-state actors, we have a crucial role to play in holding our government accountable, advocating for reforms, and ensuring that the voices of the people are heard and respected.
“I believe that by working together, we can bring about positive changes and make a real difference in the lives of the people of Kogi State,” he said.
He called for collaboration for more open and inclusive government that will put the people first in governance, allow for transparency and accountability.
