Gombe, [Date] – Gombe State has successfully secured grants totaling N26 billion over four years under the performance-based grant component of the World Bank-supported States Fiscal Transparency, Accountability, and Sustainability (SFTAS) program. This announcement was made by the Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development, Mr. Muhammad Magaji, following the inaugural State Executive Council meeting.
The grants were obtained due to the effective implementation of fiscal transparency, accountability, and sustainability reforms initiated in the state as part of the SFTAS program. These reforms, supported by the state’s administration, led by Governor Inuwa Yahaya, improved transparency and accountability in the state, making it eligible for these grants.
Magaji highlighted the positive impact of these grants, which enabled the state government to execute numerous projects, including infrastructure development and improved healthcare, benefiting the people of Gombe State.
“The grant is between 2019 and 2023, encompassing the first administration of Governor Yahaya, and it has facilitated the implementation of beneficial projects for the state’s residents,” he stated.
This accomplishment demonstrates Gombe State’s commitment to transparency and accountability in its governance. The state has made efforts to ensure that its activities are accessible to the public, adhering to the national chart of accounts. Annual financial reports are published, budgets are well-organized and made available on time, and outstanding payments to contractors are cleared in a timely manner.
The reforms have not only enhanced transparency but also contributed to Gombe State’s progress in various areas. The state has been recognized as a leader in ease of doing business and has seen a significant improvement in its transparency ranking, moving from 36th place to 7th place.
Looking forward, the state government aims to attract more investments, leading to the establishment of industries and the creation of employment opportunities for the youth in Gombe State.
The SFTAS program, with its performance-based financing component and technical assistance component, supports Nigerian states in achieving key result areas, fostering transparency, and enhancing governance at the state level. The program provides performance-based financing to states that meet annual eligibility criteria and achieve disbursement-linked results, as assessed through annual performance assessments.