Sokoto State Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning has sought the collaboration of donor agencies, ministries and departments in strategic resource utilisation to harness meaningful development in the state.

The commissioner in charge of the ministry, Abubakar Zayyana, made the call at a meeting on Tuesday in Sokoto.

The sectoral integration coordination meeting was tagged “Finding Joint Solutions for Effective Service Delivery in Sokoto State”.

Mr Zayyana emphasised the importance of shared commitment and strategic resource utilisation in driving development and enjoined key stakeholders to collaborate with the ministry toward improving service delivery across the state.

He said, “There should be synergy between the Sokoto State Government and development partners to ensure impactful outcomes for our people.

“The meeting is on accelerating growth and development through coordinated efforts to strengthen sectoral alignment and ensure efficient service provision.”

The commissioner, who expressed concern over the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) multidimensional poverty rating where Sokoto State was ranked among the worst-hit poverty states in Nigeria, stressed that “the trend must change through coordinated activities.”

In his address, the Director of International Cooperation, Musa Wamakko, listed objectives of the meeting to include increased coordination, enhanced deliberations and promoting sustainable capacity transfer among stakeholders.

Me Wamakko emphasised the need for a harmonised approach to policy implementation, improved stakeholders’ engagement and innovative strategies to address developmental challenges in Sokoto State.

The UN Population Fund (UNFPA) Programme Officer in the state, Gloria Enueze, underscored the importance of the gathering and assured more UNFPA support to achieve the desired objectives.

Commissioners also explained programmes of their respective ministries and assured robust partnerships to facilitate development in the state. 

(NAN)