Sokoto State Assembly begins budget defence for LGA’s

The Sokoto State House of Assembly has officially launched its budget defence exercise for the Local Government Areas (LGAs), underscoring its commitment to transparency in governance.

The session commenced on Wednesday, with lawmakers reaffirming their role in ensuring that public funds are allocated and managed effectively for the benefit of citizens.

Alhaji Saidu Ibrahim (APC-Sabon Birni South), Chairman of the House Committee on Local Governments, made the commitment during the inauguration of the budget defence in Sokoto.

He explained that the exercise is a core function of the legislature, aimed at ensuring proper appropriation of funds and that allocations are used efficiently.

“At the State Assembly, we are deeply concerned with the needs and aspirations of the society we represent,” Ibrahim said, emphasizing the importance of local governments in the development of the state. “Local Government Areas remain our top priority, as they are the closest level of government to the people, providing direct services and access to development.”

Ibrahim also highlighted the assembly’s dedication to transparency, ensuring that government expenditures remain open to public scrutiny and are properly managed.

He assured that the 2025 Local Government Councils (LGCs) budget proposals would undergo thorough review before being approved.

“We will begin by reviewing the level of implementation of the 2024 budget to gain a comprehensive understanding before assessing the 2025 proposal,” Ibrahim added.

In his address, Alhaji Abba Shehu, Chairman of Tambuwal LGA and Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Sokoto State, reaffirmed the local councils’ commitment to advancing development initiatives.

Shehu described the budget defence as a call to action for better service delivery and support for Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s vision for good governance.

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“Our priority is human development, which we believe will address the needs of the masses and improve the standard of living across our communities,” Shehu stated. “For the year 2025, the local government administration will focus on tackling security challenges, youth empowerment, road infrastructure, educational development, healthcare services, electricity, and potable water supply.”

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Shehu also assured that the councils would align with the state government’s nine-point smart agenda, ensuring its success in addressing key issues in the state.

Additionally, Alhaji Abdullahi Yarima, Chairman of Kebbe LGA, expressed his commitment to finding innovative ways to address poverty and promote sustainable development within the local government areas.

The proposed 2025 budget estimates for the 23 LGAs in Sokoto State are expected to range between N3 billion and N5 billion, reflecting the state’s ongoing efforts to invest in the development of its local governments and improve the quality of life for its citizens.