The Yobe State Government has initiated consultations with citizens and key stakeholders as part of the process to prepare the 2027 state budget. The proposed budget for the coming financial year stands at N437 billion. This development was made known through a statement by Yusuf Ali, Focal Person, Digital and Strategic Communications to the Yobe State Government. The consultations aim to gather the needs and aspirations of the people.
A one-day stakeholders and citizens engagement was held at the Damaturu Local Government Town Hall. The event brought together traditional rulers, civil society organisations, development partners, community groups, professional associations, and other stakeholders. The engagement was in line with the commitment of the Federal and Yobe State governments to inclusive, transparent, and participatory budgeting. This is as provided under the Fiscal Responsibility Act.
The State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Alhaji Garba Gagiyo, emphasized that the engagement was crucial for the preparation of the 2027 budget. He noted that the needs, priorities, and aspirations presented by citizens and stakeholders would form an integral part of the budget preparation process. The state government remains committed to realistic budgeting, transparency, and accountability.
The chairman of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Hon. Ibrahim Buba Kalallawa, assured that the legislature would support initiatives aimed at producing a people-oriented budget. He also emphasized the importance of strengthening internally generated revenue for improved development financing. The committee's support is expected to ensure that the budget aligns with the needs of the people.
The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr Mohamed Goje, declared the engagement open on behalf of Governor Mai Mala Buni. He stressed that citizens' engagement and participation remained central to the state's budget process. The administration believes that "government must listen before deciding." Dr Goje emphasized that inputs from citizens and stakeholders would help ensure that public expenditure remains responsive to the actual needs of the people.
Dr Goje disclosed that the proposed 2027 budget stands at N437 billion, representing an average reduction of about N78 billion compared with the previous budget projection. The reduction was deliberate and reflected the administration's commitment to fiscal realism, budget credibility, and sustainability. The objective is to ensure that available resources are channeled towards credible, achievable, and impactful projects and programs within the financial year.
The engagement provided an opportunity for stakeholders to directly present their development priorities, challenges, and aspirations. Various groups submitted proposals for consideration and possible inclusion in the 2027 budget. The government is expected to adopt a realistic approach in preparing the 2027 financial projection, taking into account the state's resources and prevailing economic realities.
Key points
- The Yobe State Government has proposed a N437 billion budget for 2027.
- The budget proposal represents an average reduction of about N78 billion compared with the previous budget projection.
- The government remains committed to realistic budgeting, transparency, and accountability.
