Niger North LG chairmen pledge people-oriented projects in 2027 budgets
Local Government Leaders in Niger North Commit to People-Centric Budgeting
Chairmen and representatives from eight local government areas in the Niger North Senatorial District have vowed to emphasize people-oriented projects in their 2027 budgets. This commitment was announced during a stakeholders’ meeting on budget preparation held Wednesday at the Multipurpose Hall of the Niger State Polytechnic in Zungeru, Wushishi Local Government Area.
The local leaders stated that their budget proposals for 2027 will be shaped by available resources and economic conditions, focusing on projects that offer tangible benefits to their communities. They acknowledged the Niger State Planning Commission for its ongoing stakeholders’ budget engagement program, which has fostered collaboration between local authorities and communities for the past three years.
In their discussions, the council leaders called for increased government action regarding the state and federal road networks, citing deteriorating road conditions that hinder movement, economic activity, and overall resident well-being. Additionally, they expressed gratitude to Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago for enhancing security in the region, particularly through the deployment of three battalions to combat insecurity.
Hajiya Hauwa Musa, Director of Local Government Budget and Planning, raised concerns over the budget preparation process, highlighting that some council chairmen may not be adequately involved. Musa noted that budget proposals are sometimes prepared without sufficient input from political leadership, leaving some chairmen unaware of their budgets during screening. She recommended that council leaders work closely with budget officials to ensure a better understanding of their financial plans.
Musa emphasized the importance of understanding revenue positions prior to proposing projects and programs in the budget.
Her comments preceded the upcoming budget screening, scheduled for September 7, during which councils will present and defend their proposals.
Hon. Dr. Engr. Mohammed Ibrahim Lokogoma, Chairman of Wushishi Local Government, remarked that the meeting offered residents a platform to express their needs, reinforcing the importance of inclusivity in the budgeting process. He identified education, healthcare, youth and women development, and environmental issues as key areas needing attention.
Hajiya Aishat T. Usman, Permanent Secretary and representative of Hon. Mustapha Ndajiwo, Chairman of the Niger State Planning Commission, affirmed the administration’s commitment to a responsive and participatory budgeting process. Ndajiwo noted that this was the third engagement with stakeholders within a month, highlighting the administration’s dedication to incorporating citizen input into developmental priorities.
He also shared that the 2026 budgets of all local government councils have been streamlined in accordance with International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS), utilizing the National Chart of Accounts.
