The Planning and Budget Commission, in collaboration with the Ministry for Local Government Affairs has successfully hosted the 20th Economic Planning Board (EPB) meeting. This landmark event brought together the newly elected 23 Local Government Chairmen, representatives from the Ministry of Local Government, and heads of various state Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) at the Conference Hall, PBC.
The Chairman EPB and Commissioner @KADPBC, Hon. Mukhtar Ahmed presided over the meeting alongside the co-chair, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry for Local Government Affairs, Dr Mahmud Lawal.
In his opening address, the Chairman, Hon. Muhktar Ahmed emphasized the importance of synergy, collaboration, and policy alignment between local governments and the state. He also highlighted the need to address grassroots issues that impact economic development at the local government level.
The meeting aimed to improve coordination, synergy, and collaboration between the state, MDAs, and local government councils on development planning efforts and economic programs. It also sought to advise local government councils on the use of accurate statistics and data in decision-making to ensure progressive and planned economic growth.
The EPB meeting featured discussions on the draft local government development plan, presented by Mallam Badamasi Musa, Board Secretary/Director Planning. The meeting provided a platform for local government councils to share concerns with MDAs and development partners, facilitating support for local economic councils in identified areas of need.
In his goodwill message, the co-chair of the EPB, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry for Local Government Affairs, Dr. Mahmud Lawal urged the chairmen to align their efforts with Governor Uba Sani’s rural transformation agenda. This agenda focuses on Upgrading Infrastructure, Strengthening Institutions, Education, Health, Trade and Investment, Agriculture, Investing in human capital, and Nurturing Citizens Engagement etc.
The successful hosting of the 20th EPB meeting marks a significant milestone in Kaduna State’s development journey, demonstrating the government’s commitment to fostering economic growth, improving service delivery, and enhancing the overall well-being of its citizens.