Bauchi Govt, ALGON Launch Proof Of Address Initiative To Boost Governance

The Bauchi state government, in collaboration with the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) Bauchi chapter and its technical partners, has organised a one-day sensitisation workshop on the Proof of Address (PoA) initiative for ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) as well as local government areas.

The workshop, held at the Executive Nest Hotel in Bauchi yesterday, underscored the importance of developing a reliable Proof of Address system to enhance governance, security and service delivery.

Opening the workshop, the state head of Civil Service, Barr Mohammed Sani Umar, described the initiative as timely and strategic, stressing that accurate data, transparency and accountability are essential for effective governance.

He said the PoA system would provide a credible framework for identifying residents, thereby strengthening planning processes, improving security coordination and enhancing public service delivery across the state.

Umar stressed the need for strong collaboration between state and local governments, pointing out that the councils, being closest to the people, play a critical role in verifying residency and ensuring effective grassroots implementation.

He urged the participants to promote awareness, ensure compliance and support the successful rollout of the initiative.

The head of Civil Service further highlighted the expected benefits of the programme as improved security architecture, data-driven policy formulation, enhanced revenue generation and the promotion of inclusive governance.

He commended Governor Bala Mohammed for his continued commitment to strengthening governance, driving innovation and improving service delivery in the state.

In his remarks, the state ALGON chairman, Hon. Mahmood Babamaji Abubakar, praised the governor for providing an enabling environment for local governments to support the initiative. He also acknowledged the role of ALGON’s national leadership in facilitating the participation of council chairmen.

Also, the chairman of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) and head of Administration, Tafawa Balewa, Comrade Mohammed Yunusa, highlighted the significance of the PoA system, particularly for rural communities.

He said that proper address identification would make it easier to locate residences and improve access to essential services.