The Sokoto State Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, in collaboration with UNICEF, has commenced a five-day intensive training workshop on Programme-Based Budgeting (PBB) to strengthen accountability and efficiency in public finance management.
Held at the Jamvaley Hotel and Resort in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, the workshop is designed to transition the state’s budgeting system from the traditional line-item approach to a more results-oriented, programme-based framework.
Declaring the workshop open, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr. Abubakar Muhammad Zayyana, expressed appreciation to Governor Dr. Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto for his consistent support and leadership in driving reforms to reposition the state.
Dr. Zayyana also commended UNICEF for its continued partnership with Sokoto State in key development areas, especially those that benefit women and children.
Highlighting the significance of the initiative, the Commissioner said, “Programme-based budgeting promotes efficiency, effectiveness, and accountability in public expenditure. This training marks a turning point in the preparation of Sokoto’s 2026 budget and aligns with the principles of the State Fiscal Transparency Accountability (SFTA).”
He noted that the workshop reflects the government’s commitment to adopting innovative budgeting practices that prioritize impact and inclusiveness, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Dr. Zayyana also acknowledged the role of the Governor in fostering a people-centered governance culture through the implementation of impactful projects and policies.
Participants at the workshop include representatives from UNICEF, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Maryam Ahmad Barade, Directors, and other key stakeholders, all working collaboratively to produce a practical and forward-looking reference document for future budgeting processes.
