Bauchi State Engages Citizens in Inclusive 2026 Budget Consultation for Bauchi South.

By Uzairu Dauda Bunga:

The Bauchi State Government has concluded public consultations for the preparation of the 2026 budget, with a town hall meeting in Bauchi South Senatorial District.

The event, organized by the Ministry of Budget, Economic Planning, and Multilateral Coordination, provided a platform for citizens and stakeholders to contribute meaningfully to the budget formulation process.

Speaking on behalf of the Commissioner, Hajiya Amina Katagum, the Director of Budget, Alhaji Ibrahim Ahmed Rufa’i, emphasized that the objective of the consultation is to engage citizens across the three senatorial zones of Bauchi State in shaping a people-centered budget.

She noted that the ministry is deeply committed to listening to the voices of the people to ensure their priorities are reflected in the 2026 budget.

Hajiya Amina, highlighted the administration’s commitment to participatory and inclusive governance under Governor Bala Abdulkadir Muhammad.

She revealed that the ministry collaborated with the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, along with non-state actors, through the Bauchi State Network of Civil Society Organizations (BASNEC), to mobilize a broad range of stakeholders, including NGOs, youth groups, women’s associations, and persons with disabilities.

She further explained that the Community Charter of Demand, a tool that captures the aspirations of communities across the 20 local government areas will be integrated into the 2026 budget process.

Hajiya Amina stressed the importance of aligning government planning with the real needs of the people and commended development partners, CSOs, traditional institutions, and community leaders for their continued support.

Encouraging active participation, the commissioner called on citizens to make practical suggestions and share innovative ideas that can help develop a responsive and inclusive budget.

She said the 2026 budget must be more than a financial document; it must be a social contract between the government and the people.

During a presentation, Alhaji Sadeeq Usman Abubakar outlined the proposed 2026 government projects and programs, which span key sectors such as education, health, agriculture, youth and women empowerment, job creation, and community development.

Sadik noted plans to promote poverty reduction through the establishment of small-scale industries, mining, tourism, and cooperative societies, along with infrastructure development and improved water and sanitation services.

He also reviewed ongoing projects under the 2025 budget, which include the construction of 17 township and urban renewal projects in Bauchi metropolis, and an 8-kilometer road construction in Dass township, among other capital projects.

Alhaji Sadeeq also shared the macroeconomic framework for the 2026 budget, projecting a national inflation rate of 18.50%, national real GDP growth of 3.60%, an oil production benchmark of 1.6 million barrels per day, and an oil price benchmark of $68 per barrel.

In his goodwill message, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Local Government and Chieftency Affairs, Comrade Hashimu Gital, reiterated Governor Bala’s commitment to inclusive development and people-focused policies.

Similarly, the Chairman of Bogoro Local Government Area, Surveyor Lawi Sumi, reported that his council has conducted public hearings to better understand and respond to the priorities of local residents.

The Executive Director of the Agency for People with Disabilities, Mrs. Esther Aeron, called for the full inclusion of disability-related needs in the budget, and urged local government chairmen to ensure equitable policies and effective implementation.

Representing the Emir of Bauchi, the Galadiman Bauchi, Surveyor Saidu Ibrahim Jahun, advised the state government to prioritize agriculture and ensure proper allocation of grazing reserves, cattle routes, and regulation of farming near roadways.

Various community groups, associations, and Ward Development Committees also presented their demands, focusing on improved access to education, healthcare, agriculture support, clean water, and road construction across the seven LGAs of Bauchi South.

The consultation marks a significant step in fostering transparency, inclusivity, and citizen participation in the governance process in Bauchi State.