In a commitment to fostering transparency and inclusiveness in the budgetary process, Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, through the Ministry of Budget and Planning, conducted a Citizens’ Engagement on the 2024 Budget at Nike Lake Resort, Enugu.
Represented by Hon. Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Barr. Chris-Roberts Ozongwu, Governor Mbah emphasized the significance of citizens' involvement in decision-making, planning, and accountability, stating, "citizens’ engagement is integral to better governance." The event aimed to capture citizens' voices in the governance process.
Hon. Ozongwu commended Governor Mbah's dedication to transparent leadership and improved public services. The Commissioner reiterated the goal of incorporating citizens' inputs into the 2024 budget, aligning with the Governor's mantra, "business unusual."
The highlight of the event included the presentation of the Citizens’ Accountability Report (CAR) on the 2022 Budget's implementation. Mrs. Clara Nwakaego Ezeh and Barr. Cromwell Chibuzor presented the 2022 CAR, highlighting a 69.9% performance rate in aggregate expenditure and a 76.7% performance rate in revenue. The report revealed plans to increase the allocation for Education in the 2024 Budget to 30% and allocate funds for completing abandoned projects.
Former Chairman Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Amb. Lawrence Agubuzu, and CSO representative Mrs. Oge Enwerem praised the government's transformative efforts. Priority issues from previous engagements, such as open defecation sensitization, were successfully implemented.
Attendees included President Generals of Town Unions, Traditional Rulers, Women Group, and various youth organizations. Representatives from Civil Society Organizations and the press were also present.
In response to raised concerns, the Hon. Commissioner and Executive Secretary of Economic Planning Commission assured citizens that Governor Mbah's commitment to "business unusual" would see 40% of citizens' nominated projects reflected in the 2024 Budget.
By:
Chukwuka, Ifunanya Judith
PRO/Information Officer, Ministry of Budget and Planning.
FountainCare Reporters
