The governor of Jigawa State, Umar Namadi, recently announced plans to hold heads of ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) accountable through the use of specific performance indicators. This was disclosed during a two-day retreat for Jigawa State Executive Council members and other top government officials, which commenced in Kaduna on Monday.

The retreat was organized in collaboration with the Partnership to Engage Reform and Learn (PERL) Accountable, Responsive and Capable Government (ARC) program, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

Governor Namadi stressed the importance of the retreat and acknowledged the valuable partnership with development organizations such as FCDO, UNICEF, and Save the Children, among others. He encouraged all participants to think innovatively to ensure that the retreat’s objectives yield transformative outcomes.

The governor expressed concern about the low human development indices, which have persisted despite significant achievements. He highlighted the need for a revised approach to implementing initiatives and interventions, with practical improvements in the socio-economic well-being of Jigawa citizens.

Governor Namadi emphasized the importance of efficient resource utilization, effective public expenditure, and financial management systems. He proposed the establishment of a robust monitoring and evaluation system to continually appraise performances across sectors and take remedial measures when necessary.

He urged the participants to actively engage in the retreat proceedings, recognizing that the issues discussed were pivotal for sector-level success and overall government performance.

The Secretary to the State Government, Bala Ibrahim, outlined the retreat’s objectives, which included familiarizing participants with the policy and governance environment and implementing the governor’s commitments outlined during his inaugural speech on May 29. The governor expressed optimism regarding the retreat’s fruitful outcomes and its contribution to making Jigawa a greater and better state.