From Sola Ojo, Kaduna
The Kaduna State Government in partnership with the Save the Children International (SCI) on Monday afternoon launched the first sub-national Social Protection Management Information System.
When it becomes fully operational, the integrated social protection software would help Kaduna State to accommodate all social protection programmes spread across its ministries, departments, and agencies and at the same time integrate the social register to implement those programmes.
The software developed by the SCI is in line with the Expanding Social Protection for Inclusive Development (ESPID), a UK-funded programme under the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) providing technical support for the strengthening of social protection in Nigeria.
Launching the software on behalf of Governor Uba Sani, Commissioner, Budget and Planning Commission, Mukhtar Ahmed Monrovia, noted that, the launching of the platform was a part of the key aspects of the Kaduna Mutual Accountability Framework (KMAF) between the Kaduna State Government and the UK Government in Nigeria.
According to him, the launch marked a significant milestone in the collective journey towards ensuring development and progress in Kaduna State.
“SCI, a major development partner in Kaduna State, has significantly contributed to the state’s development strides.
“As part of the key aspects of KMAF between the Kaduna State Government and the UK Government in Nigeria, SCI has supported the establishment of a user-friendly, interactive, web-based MIS for the Kaduna State Social Protection System.
“In a world characterized by rapid technological advancements and evolving social landscapes, the need for efficient and effective social protection mechanisms has never been more pressing.
“The Social Protection Management Information System embodies our commitment to harnessing the power of technology to better serve those in need and to build a more inclusive government.
“It is important to state that, the Government of Kaduna State has over the years demonstrated commitment towards ensuring improved Social Protection programmes in the State.
‘I would also like to reiterate the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering a conducive environment for development partners in Kaduna State. We believe in collaboration as key to achieving positive outcomes for our citizens”, he added.
The Coordinator of Kaduna State Social Investment Programmes Agency (KADSIPA), Umar Sani Maikudi remarked that for too long, social protection efforts have been hampered by fragmented information and limited coordination which the newly introduced software would address.
To him, “this innovative system with efforts dating back to 2022 will streamline critical data, and integrate our efforts.
“The implementation of this management information system will enhance the targeting of social protection interventions, ensuring that assistance reaches those who need it most, efficiently and effectively.
“Additionally, the system will facilitate better coordination and collaboration among relevant government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, civil society organizations, partners, and other stakeholders involved in social protection efforts”.