By Israel Adamu, Jos
In a move to promote inclusive governance and address the needs of its citizens, stakeholders of Riyom Local Government Council convened an engagement forum to discuss ward-level resolutions for the 2025 fiscal year budget.
Organized by the council’s Budget Department, the event brought together elected councilors from all wards within the Local Government Area (LGA), traditional leaders, and other key stakeholders at the council headquarters.
Presiding over the forum, Hon. Sati Bature Shuwa, the Executive Chairman of Riyom Local Government, highlighted the critical role of local government in grassroots development. He praised the collaborative process and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fulfilling the aspirations of the people.
“This exercise not only strengthens democracy but also ensures that our developmental strides align with the realities and expectations of our people, in line with the ‘Time is Now’ mantra of Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s administration,” Hon. Shuwa stated.
He expressed a strong commitment to executing capital projects that will transform the lives of Riyom residents, focusing on both physical and human development while driving economic prosperity.
Hon. Shuwa urged the young councilors to make sacrifices for a better Riyom, describing their energy and dedication as a symbol of participatory democracy.
“We must join hands and sacrifice to ensure Riyom progresses. You are the youngest set of councilors in Riyom Local Government’s history. If you fail, the youth will lose respect. Therefore, you must not fail!” he declared.
The forum served as a platform for councilors to present resolutions addressing the pressing needs and priorities of their wards. These submissions will form the foundation of the 2025 budget, reflecting the council’s dedication to participatory governance.
Mrs. Cecilia Galadima, the Director of Budget, lauded the initiative as a testament to the council’s commitment to transparency and accountability in public finance management. She commended the councilors for their engagement with constituents to identify actionable priorities.
In a statement issued by Amba Davis, Head of Information and Public Relations for the Local Government Council, the Riyom Traditional Council, led by His Royal Highness Ataa Yakubu, praised the initiative as a model of good governance.
The traditional ruler also commended the Executive Chairman’s ongoing efforts to restore electricity in the locality and for prioritizing inclusivity and grassroots development.
Hon. Mafeng Dahoss Mwanjal, the Legislative Leader, acknowledged the productive collaboration between the council’s executive and legislative arms, describing it as a critical driver of meaningful development.
Councilors took turns presenting resolutions from their wards, highlighting priorities such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. Hon. Shuwa received each submission, assuring stakeholders of his administration’s commitment to implementing people-centered policies.
The forum, attended by technocrats, traditional rulers, and other critical stakeholders, underscored the importance of participatory governance in addressing Riyom LGA’s unique challenges.
As preparations for the 2025 budget commence, this historic engagement forum stands as a model of grassroots inclusivity, reaffirming Riyom Local Government’s commitment to delivering responsive and people-focused governance.
