By Hussaini Ibrahim Sulaiman
The Kano State Government has taken another step toward strengthening grassroots governance by training local government officials on the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) for 2026–2028.
The two-day sensitisation workshop, organised by the Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, held at The Pyramid By Abokie Hotel in Kaduna, brought together 44 local government chairmen, heads of planning departments, and other council officials to equip them with skills in budget planning and implementation.
Speaking at the opening session, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Mohammed Tajo Othman, said the initiative reflects the state government’s commitment to inclusive governance, transparency, and accountability.
He explained that the new MTEF template will help councils align their budgets with state policies and community needs, ensuring that development priorities are people-centred.
“Effective planning and budgeting are the backbone of local government success. This workshop provides an opportunity for collaborative problem-solving and responsive budgeting that can transform lives,” Othman said.
The Commissioner urged participants to embrace active engagement, critical thinking, and knowledge-sharing to produce budgets that are both realistic and impactful.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Hajiya Fatima Adamu Barde, welcomed participants and reminded them of the critical role budgets play in governance.
“A budget is not just numbers on paper; it is a vital document that guides the operations of every government across the world. What you take away here has direct implications for citizens,” she said.
On behalf of the 44 local government chairmen, Deputy ALGON Kano South and Gaya Local Government Chairman, Hon. Mahmoud Tajo Gaya, described the training as timely and relevant to their 2026 appropriation process.
“While many of us are versed in public administration, budget formulation requires deeper technical knowledge. This training will help us prepare budgets that reflect our communities’ needs and aspirations,” he said, pledging the commitment of council chairmen to grassroots development.
The workshop is part of the Kano State Government’s broader reforms to strengthen financial management systems at the local government level.