The Centre for Humanitarian & Enterprise Development (CEHED), in collaboration with the Shehu Musa Yar’adua Foundation, called on all Kano state ministries, departments, and agencies to take into account the need for improved transparency and accountability in public administration.
This call was made by Mr. Shehu Shuaibu, Director of CEHED, today, Tuesday, at a one-day stakeholders forum meeting organized by CEHED with support from the Shehu Musa Yar’adua Foundation.
The meeting, themed “Improving Transparency and Accountability in the Public Sector in Kano,” aims to foster transparency and accountability within the Kano public service.
According to Mr. Shuaibu, “Transparency and accountability are the bedrock of good governance.”
“Efficient management entails minimizing corruption as well as enhancing responsibility,” said Mr. Shuaibu.
Moreover, through a community-driven approach, CEHED aims to influence societal norms towards these values with the support of the Shehu Musa Yar’adua Foundation, with which they have partnered for this purpose.
“This initiative will help curtail rampant corruption, plug financial loopholes within the state system, and ensure accountability even after the retirement of government functionaries,” he continued.
Dr. Farida Abdulmalik, Director of SWATCH, delivered a paper on governance, transparency, and accountability. She emphasized the role these principles play in enhancing public trust and improving service delivery in the public sector.
“Effective governance is only possible when transparency and accountability are prioritized. These are essential to building public trust and ensuring that services are delivered efficiently,” she said.
Mr. Harc Moko, the Enterprise Development consultant, elaborated on the intervention’s objectives, stating, “Our goal is to create a sustainable framework that promotes integrity and transparency in the public sector. This involves not only identifying and addressing instances of corruption but also putting in place preventive measures to ensure accountability at all levels of governance.”
The forum featured several key presentations, including a discussion on “Demonstrating and Maintaining Transparency and Accountability in the Public Sector” by Professor Usman M. Shuaibu from the Faculty of Law at Bayero University, Kano.
He remarked, “A legal framework that enforces transparency and accountability is crucial for preventing corruption and promoting good governance.”
Aliyu Mudi Sulaiman highlighted the media’s role in his presentation on improving the reporting of transparency and accountability issues in the public sector.
“The broadcast media has a significant responsibility to inform the public and act as a watchdog. Enhanced reporting on governance issues can drive public awareness and pressure for reform,” he said.
At the forum, Hon. Hafsat Adhama, Senior Special Assistant to the Executive Governor of Kano State on Girl Child Education, also spoke on the efforts of the Kano State Governor towards enhancing transparency and accountability in his administration.
Hon. Adhama stated, “The Kano State Government has been at the forefront of implementing policies that promote transparency and accountability. The Governor has initiated several reforms aimed at reducing corruption and ensuring that public resources are managed effectively. These efforts are not only about compliance but also about fostering a culture of integrity within the public service.”
The stakeholders’ forum meeting was attended by members of various civil society organizations as well as public servants from multiple Kano state ministries, agencies, and departments.
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