Bauchi Gov Signs 5.8 Billion Naira UN Work Plan on Delivery as One

-- Says UN is active in Bauchi 

Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed of Bauchi State on Wednesday signed a N5.8 billion work plan on Delivery as One, an initiative of the United Nations agencies. 

Speaking before signing the document, the governor said singing the document is part of his administration's vision of providing citizens of the state with good governance.

Governor Bala Mohammed said governance, human rights, peace and security form the basic tenets of his administration as currently, people are involved in all the major decisions taken by the government that affect their lives. 

He said the state government is tackling the challenges in critical sectors of the economy through effective and efficient utilisation of the state's wealth. 

"I am glad to state that this work plan has captured most of what we are doing in the state. The investment in the various social sectors by the UN family is indeed heart-warming as it shows the confidence you have in my administration. Let me thank you most sincerely for this wonderful relationship."

"We need partners and sponsors. Bauchi under my leadership is donor and investment friendly."

"Development planning and processing are not new to Nigeria and indeed Bauchi State. What is new is the process where people who are the beneficiaries of the programmes and projects are carried along in implementation of the plan."

He noted with satisfaction that the work plan is a product of a collective effort of people from various ministries, departments and agencies and the officials of the United Nations agencies in Nigeria.

The governor said his administration believes in inclusive governance and therefore acknowledged the outstanding contributions, support and assistance of development partners to the state government.

He told the UN officials that efforts are on going by his administration to improve performances in the sectors of health, education among others, for the wellbeing of the citizenry. 

"The situation in Bauchi State is changing very fast for the better, because our government is committed to the use of the meagre resources effectively and efficiently."

Governor Bala Mohammed therefore directed the State Planning Commission to ensure proper coordination and implementation of the document and to brief him on regular basis on the projects. 

The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator to Nigeria, Mr. Edward Kallon, had earlier said with the signing of the 2020 Delivery As One annual work plan, UN will expand its humanitarian activities to other critical sectors in the state. 

Mr. Edward Kallon said for effective implementation of the plan in the state, there is need for the state government to provide conductive environment for UN officials especially in the areas of peace and security.

"Your Excellency, Bauchi State is one of the UN Delivery as One states. I heard from your colleagues that your office is in discussion with the UN agencies on issues linked to Sustainable Energy Development, MSMES, Industrial Parks and Private Sector Development and agribusiness development."

"The United Nations is truly interested in this engagement especially now and beyond, and your government should create avenues for other UN entities to engage."