The Sokoto State House of Assembly has appealed for technical support from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to enhance its strategic budget planning.
Its Speaker, Alhaji Tukur Bala, made the request when he received Mr Koessan Kuawu, Deputy Representative of UNFPA Nigeria, in Sokoto on Tuesday.
Bala, represented by his Deputy, Alhaji Kabiru Ibrahim, acknowledged the UNFPA’s contributions, noting they have helped strengthen the Assembly’s governance.
“We have enhanced our capacity to ensure budget formulation that will improve the welfare of our people.
“Currently, the Assembly operates under a seven-point agenda, prioritising oversight functions to achieve better service delivery.
“With UNFPA’s technical support, we are confident in our ability to foster effective governance for the state,” he said.
The Speaker commended the UNFPA representative for accepting the Assembly’s invitation to visit the state.
In his remarks, Kuawu said that the visit aligned with the Assembly’s goals of crafting a budget that benefits the entire population.
He noted that the strategic focus areas identified by the UNFPA include health, education, and youth employment, aiming to contribute to the state’s economic development.
“The UNFPA advocates full investment in the health sector and girls’ education to strengthen economic growth.
“Our mission is to improve reproductive and maternal health globally, develop national healthcare strategies, and lead campaigns against gender-based violence, obstetric fistula, and female genital mutilation,” Kuawu said.
He added that the UNFPA has supported Sokoto State since 1997, providing resources for health facilities, infrastructure, and capacity-building initiatives.
Kuawu also commended Gov. Ahmed Aliyu’s commitment to counterpart funding and dedication to the healthcare sector in the state.
During a courtesy visit to the governor, Kuawu reaffirmed the UNFPA’s commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Sokoto state.
The governor, represented by his Deputy, Alhaji Idris Gobir, expressed appreciation for UNFPA’s sustained support to the state.
Gobir emphasised that the state’s Nine-Point Agenda prioritises the health sector due to its crucial role in societal development.
“We believe that meaningful progress cannot be achieved without a robust healthcare system.
“The health sector consistently ranks second in our state budget allocations, reflecting our commitment to health initiatives,” he said. (NAN).
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