BugetIT: Gombe Ranks High In 2023 Fiscal Transparency Report

A reputable fiscal policy tracking organisation in Nigeria, BudgetIT, has ranked Gombe State 6th in the 2023 Fiscal Transparency Index.

The state took the 6th position of the 36 states in the federation with a commendable score of 74/100.

The state government said it was the result of its commitment to fiscal transparency and accountability that has earned it a significant distinction in the report published by BudgetIT.

 In a statement on the development, the director-general of press affairs, Government House, Gombe, Ismaila Uba Misilli, said the achievement reflected the state’s dedication to transparent budgeting, procurement practices, and online fiscal reporting.

Misilli said, “The report underscores Gombe State’s accomplishments in various key areas, including budget transparency, procurement transparency, the integrity of the state’s website, and fiscal transparency online. Particularly noteworthy is the state’s Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), which has been recognised as comprehensive and well-structured.

“The report acknowledges that Gombe State’s approved budget met several stringent criteria, while its e-procurement portal stood out for its accessibility and navigability.

“Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya’s administration has consistently demonstrated its commitment to fiscal transparency and accountability, earning Gombe State esteemed recognition both on a national and international level,” he said.

The DG recalled that the state recently secured the World Bank’s States Fiscal Transparency, Accountability and Sustainability (SFTAS) award in multiple categories, saying it was a testament to the Inuwa administration’s impactful efforts in prudent public resource management.

“Furthermore, Gombe State achieved a remarkable 7th position in Nigeria and clinched the top spot in the North East sub-region in the Transparency and Integrity Index by the Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Integrity Watch (CETIW). This recognition affirmed the state’s position as a role model in good governance, financial prudence, and fiscal integrity,” he added.

Also, an associate professor and multi-disciplinary researcher, who also serves as the director-general of Research and Documentation at the Government House, Dr. Mu’azu Shehu, explained that based on his close monitoring of national and international open government and development ratings, Gombe State has performed credibly well in fiscal responsibility, transparency, and accountability.