By Murtala Muhammad
Bauchi State Ministry of Budget, Economic Planning, and Multilateral Coordination has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and other development partners.
The partnership is with a view to improve access to healthcare, education, and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) for the development and well-being of children in the state.
At the opening of a one-day 2024 Annual/Programme and 2025-27 Workplan Consultation meeting, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Jibril Mohammed Yusuf emphasized Bauchi state’s dedication to fulfilling its obligations.
He said despite the recent 2025 Budget presentation by Governor Bala Mohammed, additional input for inclusion into the budget is still welcomed.
He also expressed gratitude to UNICEF for its support towards the development of children in the state.
The Chief of UNICEF’s Bauchi Field Office, Dr. Nuzhat Rafique, highlighted the importance of reviewing the 2024 programme implementation and planning for upcoming years.
She emphasized that UNICEF’s role is to support the Nigerian government, as it is the government’s responsibility to provide quality education, healthcare, and safe water to children.
The meeting brought together participants from Bauchi and Plateau States’ Primary Health Care Boards, Ministries of Budget and Planning, Education, Water Resources, and Information.