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By Abdullahi Ahmed
Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Tuesday called on citizens to actively contribute ideas and feedback as the state begins preparations for the 2026 budget, saying their input remains vital to effective governance and development planning.
Speaking at a citizens’ engagement session in Bode Saadu, Headquarters of Moro Local Government Area, Governor AbdulRazaq urged residents to freely share their needs and priorities with government.
He stressed that the administration is committed to listening and adjusting policies to better serve the people.
“A budget is a statement of intent which focuses on the direction the government is headed in the financial year. Citizens’ engagement has served as a barometer to know what the public needs and how resources should be allocated. It is important that you let us know your truth — what affects you and what will improve your lives,” the Governor said.
AbdulRazaq highlighted that the administration is entering a new phase of development, citing ongoing infrastructure projects, investments in agriculture, healthcare, and digital innovation.
“The support of the people is what motivates us to do better,” he added, commending participants for their patriotic spirit and commitment to the Kwara project.
The citizens’ engagement, organised by the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, brings together traditional rulers, civil society organisations, the organised private sector, and the members of the public to provide inputs for the budget.
The Kwara State Commissioner for Planning and Economic Development, Dr. Mary Arinde, said the initiative promotes accountability and ensures citizens have a say in decision-making.
She noted that the process reflects the administration’s resolve to align governance with people’s aspirations.
In a goodwill message, the Ohoro of Shao, Oba Obalowu Atolagbe praised the Governor’s achievements in gender balance, infrastructure, and human capital development, while appealing for township roads and rehabilitation of the Shao/Sobi water project.
Prince Olatunji Adebara of Jebba called for the establishment of a School of Nursing in Jebba to expand access to healthcare training.
Giving a breakdown of budget performance for the 2024 and 2025 fiscal years, the Director of Planning, Samsudeen Aregbe, said the administration had performed excellently, assuring that citizens’ contributions would guide the next fiscal direction.
The session drew participants from across Kwara North, with stakeholders pledging their continued partnership in shaping the state’s development agenda.
