By Nwanodu Angela :
Anambra State has made a significant stride in promoting transparency and accountability, earning a top spot in the State Fiscal Transparency League (SFTL) Q1 2024 ranking by BudgIT, a prominent civic organization dedicated to simplifying public information through creative technology.
This achievement highlights Anambra’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and efficient service delivery under the visionary leadership of Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo,
BudgIT, known for its efforts in stimulating an active citizenry and enabling their right to demand institutional reforms, assessed the fiscal transparency of Nigerian states in Q1 2024.
According to the executive summary shared by Gabriel Okeowo, the Country Director, the rankings on the SFTL table varied significantly, reflecting diverse levels of transparency across states. (See https://fiscalleague.budgit.org/?_gl=1*1vvzhbw*_ga*MTc5MjExNDcxNS4xNzIxNzQzNTM3*_ga_0JJ5DSW0SF*MTcyMTc0MzUzNy4xLjAuMTcyMTc0MzUzNy42MC4wLjA)
Anambra State emerged as a top performer due to several key factors clearly available and accessible on its state website: comprehensive and timely fiscal documents, such as the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), proposed and approved budgets, and the presence of an operational e-Procurement portal.
Ranked 1st due to its comprehensive and timely fiscal documents and operational e-Procurement portal, Anambra State was closely followed by Edo State. Both states demonstrated similar strengths in document arrangement and availability but with recommendations for further improvement.
This ranking is part of a quarterly assessment program evaluating Nigerian states on fiscal transparency. It focuses on the availability and comprehensiveness of key fiscal documents, the functionality of state websites and e-Procurement portals, and the timeliness of publications. BudgIT recommended that all state governments ensure their websites are functional and up-to-date, which is crucial for facilitating the assessment process.
Anambra State’s achievement sets a high standard for others, showcasing the importance of digital transparency in fostering an equitable society. The state’s efforts in maintaining an organized and accessible website are commendable and serve as a model for others.
As we anticipate the Q2 rankings with enthusiasm, we encourage all citizens and stakeholders to visit the Anambra State official website, www.anambrastate.gov.ng, for authentic and verifiable news, updates, and information.
This platform is your go-to resource for state-related information, keeping you informed about the latest developments and initiatives in Anambra State. Let’s join hands in promoting transparency and accountability. Explore today and be part of Anambra’s journey towards excellence!
Feel free to share your feedback via ict@anambrastate.gov.ng.
* Nwanodu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *