By Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has enjoined the people to give constructive feedbacks on government’s activities, including on how to serve them better.

Addressing a citizens’ engagement session on 2026 budget in Bode Saadu, Moro Local Government Area, the Governor urged the people to provide useful information on what their needs are, saying the government is open to being told what to improve upon.

An initiative of the administration organised by the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, the citizens’ engagement session garners inputs from the public through consultations with CSOs, NGOs, organised private sectors, traditional rulers, and the public.

He said: “I am glad to be back in Moro today and for this large turnout. This session is good for our development because it helps us to plan well.

“A budget is a statement of intent which focuses on the direction the government is headed in the financial year. As an administration, we have made it a duty to constantly harvest the views of the public and specific areas of focus for the coming financial year.

“Citizens engagement has, therefore, served as a barometer to know what the public needs and how resources should be allocated across the state. It is important to mention that every government project and programme is important.

“They are all born out of varying interest and needs of the public. For instance, the construction of roads, pedestrian walkways, water projects, health facilities and investments in agricultural initiatives are just as important as having a technology hub that gives our children a strong head-start in the fast-space digital economy that we have today.

“It is important that you let us know your truth. Let us know what affects you and what will improve your lives. You wear the shoe and you know where it pinches. Tell us what the problems are so that we can put it in the next budget to improve your wellbeing.”

AbdulRazaq, who noted that his administration is entering a new phase, said: “We are excited with the volume of development going on across the state. Basically, the support of the people is what motivates us to do better.”

He commended the participants for their patriotic spirit and commitment to the Kwara project.

Commissioner for Planning and Economic Development, Dr Mary Arinde, for her part, said the citizens’ engagement is a compelling necessity for effective governance.

She said the event serves to listen and respond to the needs of the public, promote accountability, and encourage citizens to participate in the decision-making processes.

The Ohoro of Shao, Oba Dr Obalowu Atolagbe, commended the historic feat of Governor AbdulRazaq on gender balance in government, development of basic infrastructure, and human capital development.

He requested the government to construct more township roads in the town and rehabilitate the Shao/Sobi water project.

Prince Olatunji Adebara of Jebba called on the government to establish a School of Nursing at Jebba to deepen access to quality healthcare service.

Director of Planning, Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, Samsudeen Aregbe, who gave a breakdown of the budget performance for 2024 and 2025 fiscal years, said the administration has performed excellently.

The session was attended by different stakeholders from Kwara North.