The Sokoto State Government has directed all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to correct and resubmit their 2026 appropriation proposals for consolidation by the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.
The directive was issued by the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr. Abubakar Muhammad Zayyana, at the end of the bilateral budget discussions with MDAs held at the Ministry.
Dr. Zayyana explained that the corrections would enable the Ministry to proceed to the next stage of consolidating all MDAs’ proposals into the overall 2026 state budget. He noted that this process is vital to provide a clear picture of total overhead, recurrent, and capital expenditures.
According to him, the discussions were aimed at reviewing the MDAs’ submissions to produce a realistic, well-focused budget that aligns with the Smart Agenda of Governor Dr. Ahmad Aliyu’s administration. He added that citizens’ views and aspirations would also be incorporated into the budget before it is presented to the State Executive Council for approval and subsequently to the State House of Assembly for legislative consideration.
The Commissioner commended the active participation of MDA heads in the exercise, particularly the State Head of Service and some Commissioners who personally led their teams, describing it as highly motivating and encouraging.
Speaking earlier, the Head of Service, Sulaiman S/Fulani, expressed satisfaction with the Ministry’s commitment and innovative approach, describing the process as robust and fruitful. He said the engagement would add significant value to his office’s budget.
Also contributing, Commissioner for Finance, Engr. Muhammadu Jabbi Shagari, and the Commissioner for Lands and Housing, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Ahmad Moyi Tambuwal, appreciated the Ministry for providing proper guidance towards achieving a scientific and realistic budget within their allocated envelopes.
The Economic Adviser to the Governor, Dr. Bashir Muhammad Achida, who also presented his office’s proposal, lauded the Ministry for justifying its responsibility of ensuring effective planning and budgeting in line with government policies. He gave a “pass mark” to Dr. Zayyana and his team, expressing optimism that the desired goals would be realized.
Other MDAs that defended their proposals on the final day included the Ministries of Innovation and Digital Economy, Culture and Tourism, the State Internal Revenue Service, Local Government Service Commission, Careers and Security Service Department, SDGs Office, State Judicial Service Commission, and the State Liaison Office, Abuja, among others.
