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From Shafa’atu Suleiman, Sokoto
Sokoto State Government has commenced the process of finalizing its 2026 budget following the conclusion of bilateral discussions between the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning and various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr. Abubakar Muhammad Zayyana, said MDAs whose proposals required corrections have been directed to make adjustments and resubmit immediately. According to him, this will allow the Ministry to consolidate all submissions into a single draft budget for the state.
He said that the exercise is essential in capturing the overall financial outlook for 2026, including overhead, recurrent, and capital expenditures. He emphasized that the discussions were designed to ensure a realistic, well-focused budget that aligns with the Smart Agenda of Governor Ahmad Aliyu’s administration.
“The views and aspirations of citizens will also be incorporated before the draft budget is presented to the State Executive Council and, subsequently, to the House of Assembly for legislative approval,” he added.
The Commissioner commended the level of commitment shown by heads of MDAs, noting that the active participation of the Head of Service and several Commissioners who personally led their teams was highly encouraging.
The Head of Service in the state, Alhaji Sulaiman S. Fulani, described the process as “robust and fruitful,” praising the Ministry’s approach in steering the state toward a more scientific and realistic budget.
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Similarly, Commissioner for Finance, Engr. Muhammadu Jabbi Shagari, and Commissioner for Lands and Housing, represented by Permanent Secretary, Engr. Ahmad Moyi Tambuwal, appreciated the Ministry for its guidance in aligning proposals with available resources.
Economic Adviser to the Governor, Dr. Bashir Muhammad Achida, also lauded the Ministry’s performance, saying the exercise clearly demonstrated its commitment to proper planning and budgeting in line with government priorities. He gave a “pass mark” to the Commissioner and his team, expressing optimism that the 2026 budget would meet its desired objectives.
Other MDAs that appeared on the final day of the discussions included the Ministries of Innovation and Digital Economy, Culture and Tourism, State Internal Revenue Service, Local Government Service Commission, Career and Security Service Department, the SDGs Office, State Judicial Service Commission, and the State Liaison Office, Abuja, among others.
