The Jigawa State government has responded to recent criticisms by opposition parties regarding its Citizens’ Engagement Programme, designed to foster direct communication between the government and its people.
Speaking during an interview with journalists at the Citizens’ Engagement Programme held in Birniwa Local Government Area, the Commissioner for Information, Youth, Sports and Culture, Sagir Musa Ahmed, addressed the concerns raised by the opposition.
Governor Umar Namadi launched the initiative, locally known as “Gwamnati da Jama’a”, to provide residents across the 27 local government areas an opportunity to voice their needs and grievances directly to government officials.
The programme also allows the government to share information on its ongoing projects and initiatives aimed at improving citizens’ lives.
However, opposition parties, including the NNPP and PDP, have criticized the initiative.
They argued that the programme has deviated from its intended purpose and that citizens, regardless of political affiliation, are not being given adequate opportunity to express their views.
In response, Sagir said the state government is not seeking validation from opposition parties but is focused on addressing the genuine needs and aspirations of the people.
“The government isn’t expecting praises from the opposition. What matters most to us is meeting the expectations of our citizens,” he stated.
He explained that the programme ensures broad representation, including delegates from every political ward, civil society organizations, NURTW, NATO, farmers’ groups, and other development associations within each local government.
“I don’t think it’s necessary to dwell on what the oppositions are saying. In anything you do, there will always be critics. But what’s important is that, for the first time in Jigawa’s history, the Governor, along with members of the executive, judiciary, and legislature, are coming together to engage directly with the people and seek their input,” he added.
Sagir further emphasized that the government is committed to serving the people of Jigawa State.
“We are focused on the good people of the state, and we’re pleased to see that they are happy and satisfied with what the government is doing. Everyone is entitled to their opinion — this is a democracy.”