Address by His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State, Malam Ibrahim Shekarau to the Kano State House of Assembly during the presentation of the Foundation Budget

Al-Muharram 28, 1425/March 19, 2004

Courtesies

Assalamu Alaikum,

When by the will of Allah, we assumed the mantle of leadership of this great State on May 29, 2003, after one of the most keenly contested elections in the history of our State, we made clear the resolve of our Administration to turn around the State onto its time-honored course of peace, prosperity, and progress. Our strategy for achieving this cardinal objective was amply enunciated in our 10-point Programme contained in the resolutions of the Commencement Retreat of the Administration held in August 2003, which includes:

1. Commitment to Shari’a Implementation;
2. Promoting the principles of honesty, probity, openness and transparency in governance;
3. Leadership by example;
4. Human development;
5. Societal re-orientation;
6. Proper planning and timely execution of projects and programmes;
7. Realistic budgeting and budget discipline;
8. Harmonious co-existence among the three arms of government;
9. Synergy among the various agencies of government; and,
10. Priority attention to mass food production, water supply, security, health, environment, commerce and industry; education, women and youth as well as urban and rural infrastructural development.

Honourable Members are aware that at the inception of this Administration, we inherited a budget of N38.7billion prepared by the previous Administration. Ideally, that estimate was supposed to be an instrument for the realization of the various projects, programmes and services approved by your predecessors. Regrettably, a careful appraisal of the document alongside the funds at the disposal of Government then revealed that its implementation could not be possible due to the non-availability of funds in the public treasury. In fact, the total funds available to the State between January and December 2003 were approximately N21billion leaving a financing gap of over N17billion representing unfulfilled promises to the people.

In our desire to ensure a credible new beginning therefore, we found it necessary to present before this august House, a Supplementary Budget of the sum of N2.5billion. This was a stopgap measure intended to facilitate the operation of Government and to also accommodate essential aspects of our vision for the remaining part of the year 2003. At this juncture, let me acknowledge with appreciation, the support and bi-partisan understanding the Administration enjoyed from this Honourable House in giving accelerated hearing and approval to the Supplementary Budget and other bills we presented to this House.

Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, I stand before you today to perform one of the key constitutional obligations required of me, that is to present this Administration’s Budget for 2004, which I decisively tag as “The Foundation Budget”. I call it so, based on the understanding that it is our maiden full year budget proposal to this esteemed House, and for my firm belief that it would serve as a constructive determinant for the accomplishment of our mission for Shari’a implementation, Human Development and Societal Re-orientation. Before presenting the Foundation Budget, permit me to make a few reflections of our stewardship over the past nine months.

Achievements

This esteemed Assembly may recall that the preceding financial year 2003 afforded this Administration, barely seven months for take-off.  In spite of this, I am humbled to report on some key accomplishments in the following sectors. 

Security

Honourable Members will agree with me that our dear State has achieved relative peace, having emerged from an era of tension characterized by excessive intolerance, executive lawlessness and lack of political accommodation. As we strive to put the memories of that awful experience behind us, we must thank Almighty Allah for His divine guidance and intervention.

To consolidate this modest gain, the Administration had within this period expanded its horizon of co-operation with, and provided support to the various security agencies and other auxiliary security services in the State. Specifically, we have succeeded at re-reinvigorating the Hisbah in the State by enacting an enabling law to guide its operations. The organisation is already making meaningful contribution in our day-to-day life, including the provision of complementary support to security agencies. 

In our effort to enhance security of life and property against hazards, the State Government has also expended the sum of N17million on the rehabilitation of fire fighting vehicles, equipment and provision of other relevant appliances.  As a result of this intervention we have succeeded in increasing the fleet of fire fighting vehicles from 2 at the inception of this administration, to 22. The result is enhanced deployment, readiness and the reduction of fire fighters response time.

General Administration

Kano State is blessed with a highly professional, loyal and committed Civil Service whose members, past and present, exhibited dedication and selfless service in the course of the years. Ironically, this Institution, which is the most important tool in the hands of the Government had of recent been traumatized and demoralized. That is why immediately, following assumption of Office, we committed ourselves to introducing measures that will restore confidence among the civil servants so that they can once again discharge their responsibilities effectively. 

The measures we have taken, Honourable Members may wish to know, included the upward review of the monthly overhead costs to Ministries/Organisations and the restoration of annual increments on workers salaries among others. We have also succeeded in creating a conducive working environment where civil servants can operate freely without fear of political victimization or other forms of intimidation.

Payment of Pension and Gratuity

Payment of pension and gratuity to civil Servants was a thorny issue that defied solution by successive administrations. On our assumption to office we inherited the sum of N2.085billion as outstanding claims by pensioners from the State Civil Service. This amount included the sum of over N914million, which the pensioners were forced to forfeit after an unjust and unfair negotiation with the immediate past administration. This, we consider unethical and a breach of the fundamental right of these innocent citizens. On another premise we also inherited another liability of N310.7million in respect of pensioners from the Local Government Service.  However, in line with our pledge to address the issue decisively, we committed ourselves to settling these claims in phases. Today, I am glad to report that this Administration has succeeded in settling the sum of N600million out of the outstanding claims for the State Pensioners, and another sum of N280.8million on the Local Government Staff Pension. Mr. Speaker, let me reiterate our commitment to, by the last quarter of the year 2005, settle the outstanding balance of N1.028billion to the State pensioners and over N500million to the local government pensioners.

On another compassionate note, conscious of the hardship encountered by families of Civil Servants that died in active service, this Administration found it appropriate to review upward, the allowances paid to bereaved families by 50%. This measure is designed to be a goodwill gesture to cushion the effect of the loss on the families of the deceased workers. In addition to this, we have settled the debt of over N11million of such allowances that accumulated during the last five years. We also provided an imprest facility of N1million to the Office of the Head of Civil Service to settle bereaved families allowances within two weeks of the death of a civil servant.

Water Supply

Kano State’s potential to meet its water needs for domestic, agricultural and industrial purposes is never in doubt. Paradoxically, the State is facing intractable scarcity of this vital commodity despite the huge investment in the sector.

In my maiden address to the good people of Kano State, I highlighted our determination to work with stakeholders in the sector to find a lasting solution to the problem. Consequently, we embarked upon the rehabilitation of major Water Treatment Plants and funded the completion of all ongoing water projects.  We also undertook the repair/replacement of water reticulation networks, vehicles and other vital equipment. To this end, over N107million was expended in the sector to improve both the quantity and quality of water to the citizenry.

Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, you will agree with me that our effort in this critical sector has already started to yield dividend, as attested to by the restoration/improvement of water supply to over 40 wards and communities in Kano Metropolis. This is an encouraging sign that with your continued support and the assurance of greater commitment on our part, a lasting solution to the perennial scarcity of water will be in place.

To complement these gains, the State Government had expended another sum of N124.5million in the construction of 135Nos. hand pumps, 3Nos. Motorized and 6Nos. solar-powered boreholes across the State.  Furthermore, to enhance the operational capacity of RUWASA to provide potable water to rural communities in the State, the sum of N9million was also expended in the repairs/rehabilitation of 4Nos. drilling rigs and 3Nos. Compressors for the Agency.

Agriculture

Because of its direct bearing on the generality of Citizens, and because of its great economic potential, this Administration decided to focus on agriculture throughout its tenure. Part of our strategy to achieve this objective includes the identification of major constraints of the sector and articulating appropriate measures to address them. We therefore recognised the need to re-invigorate extension services to provide technical advice and counseling on modern farming practices and the use of improved seeds and adaptable farm implements by our farmers. In this regard, the State Government has expended over N54million through KNARDA as take-off funds for the mass food production program.

To increase the productive capacity of our farmers, the State Government is helping farmers to secure a soft loan of over N180million from NACB for animal traction under the Work-Bull Scheme. About 340 farmer families across the State are expected to benefit from this facility.

Furthermore, Government had secured and distributed 50 units of tractors to the 44 Local Government Areas of the State at the cost of N106.6million. It is anticipated that these machines and implements will further enhance the capacity of our farmers to produce more food and cash crops resulting in economic empowerment and prosperity of our dear State at large.

Mr. Speaker, esteemed Members of the Assembly, as part of our sincere effort to provide basic inputs to farmers, a necessary requirement of the mass food production program of the administration, we almost immediately on assumption of office placed an order for the supply of 100,000 tons of assorted fertiliser for distribution to farmers at a subsidized rate. This large order which is unprecedented in the history of the State is deliberate: it is intended to check artificial scarcity, drastically bring down the price of this vital input and convince the entire State that this administration is indeed focused on agricultural production. That way, not only farmers and farmer groups, but also investors and the idle youths in the capital will be attracted to return to the farm in their villages.  Already, the impact of our initial sale of 76,000 bags of subsidized fertilizers was clearly made, given the relative stability in the price of fertilizers in our markets during the last rainy and the current dry seasons.

Surprisingly, while we pursued this course of action sincerely and in the best interest of the State and its Citizens, our effort has evoked suspicions in the minds of faultfinders who, by their actions in the immediate past, do not mean well for the State and its people. Since we professed our intention to order for fertilizer, such people have expressed mischief, animosity and are applying all forms of obstruction to subvert it. 

In their attempt to cause disaffection, they are engaged in criticism in the media to portray our actions in bad light and smear the State Government. Predictably, this unpatriotic attitude towards their home State emanates from blind partisanship and a desire to frustrate this Administration in its sincere effort to put the State on the paths of economic growth and self reliance. We are also not unaware of the rumour being spread by certain commercial interests in and outside the State who never see good in any transaction other than those in which they are involved or patronized.

Mr. Speaker, permit me to speak extensively to you and the good people of this State on this subject, and to solemnly declare that we are quite conscious that we were voted to office on the goodwill of our teeming population and their yearnings for an honest and trustworthy management of their affairs.  For us to therefore commit Government to any transaction that is not wholesome, or one that is not in the best interest of our people; or, for that matter, to enter into any transaction involving personal interest shall be the height of betrayal and irresponsibility.

Polio vaccine is another area these same people have recently capitalized on to continue with their wicked activities and further their acts of sabotage against the State and its collective aspirations. Our commitment to protect the well being of our future generation is now the object of ridicule and blackmail. All we have said in this matter was that our experts have found contaminations in the vaccines sent to our State, and because of that polio vaccination activity cannot continue until we are assured of safe vaccines. This is a true statement and is consistent with the oaths I swore. I will always remain true to my pledge to protect my people.

Mr. Speaker, allow me to reiterate our resolve to work and cooperate with any organization, and to use any vaccine certified as safe; but we will never despair or relent in the effort to protect our future generations.

We firmly believe that Allah, the All-knowing, and indeed our people shall judge and in due time either acquit those of us striving to live up to our obligations to the citizenry, or indict others trying to undermine such efforts. 

Rural Electrification

Considering the relevance of electric power in development, this Administration recognized the need to provide electricity in the rural areas. We provided, and where necessary improved electricity supply in 14 communities at the cost of N81.8million.  Communities that benefited include: Gani, Rumo, Dawanau, Tashar Nakuttu, Sheka Market and Maradun.

In keeping with our determination to engender the culture of maintenance of existing infrastructure, Government found it desirable to undertake the repairs and rehabilitation of existing electricity infrastructures in over 50 towns and villages across the State.  It is again significant to acknowledge and commend the effort of some communities that initiated various electrification projects in their domains to complement Government’s effort.  This is a demonstration of public’s confidence in our administration to re-create a new Kano State based on cooperation and partnership with local governments and the communities.

Commerce and Industry

In line with our resolve to safeguard our cherished legacy in Commerce, this Administration found it necessary to create an enabling environment that would resuscitate commerce and industry.  Consequently, we recognized the need for a Shari’a compliant source of investment capital to assist our indigenous traders and industrialist to secure soft loans.  We thus, invested the sum of N200million through Kano State Investment and Properties Limited (KSIP) to purchase 200 million shares in Ja’iz Islamic Bank.  It is envisaged that this investment will afford our entrepreneurs access to interest free loans, profit sharing opportunities for investors and partnerships that could assist in turning around our industries and commercial activities that are continually going down.

In a related development, the State Government had released the sum of N100million to coordinate the recapitalization of the State-owned primary mortgage institution, the Dala Building Society Ltd.  This is to meet the CBN’s prescribed minimum paid-up capital for such financial institutions.  The Dala Building Society will provide yet another source of financing especially for workers interested in house ownership schemes.

Transport (Roads)

It would be recalled that we assumed office at the threshold of the rainy season, a period when people have to cope with flooding on roads, due to poor drainages.  In our effort to intervene and reduce the deterioration of our roads, the sum of N11.4million was expended on clearing drainages at several locations in Kano Metropolis.

In the area of urban road construction, we have spent approximately N500million on reconstruction/ rehabilitation works on some important metropolitan roads that were in terrible state of disrepair in order to ease the flow of traffic. These include: Hausa-Ibo Road, Burma Road, Beirut Road, Bello Kano Terrace, Audu Bako Secretariat and Lamido Crescent. The Yola - Kwanar Goda, Dakata-Yankaba, K/Mazugal-Koki-‘Yan mota roads have also received similar attention.

Meanwhile, in our effort to sustain the maintenance of roads and such other related infrastructure in the state, Government had expended another N6.5million on the rehabilitation of vehicles and equipment for KASEPPA. This is to equip the Agency to discharge one of its important functions of routine maintenance of urban roads, drainages and such other infrastructures. 

In a related undertaking, the sum of N34.3million was disbursed to the State Ministry of Works for the repairs and maintenance of Street and Traffic Lights in Kano metropolis. As a result, today, motorists in Kano metropolis enjoy traffic lights on at least nine major roads. Elsewhere in the State, over N23million was expended on the repairs and rehabilitation of roads and bridges. These include; Faruruwa-Yaryasa bridge, Kumbotso bridge and the Rano-Tiga-Rahama road.

Education

On assumption to office we inherited a crisis ridden education sector that was fast approaching the stage of complete breakdown. Well-known among its problems were shortage of critical manpower, over crowding in classrooms, lack of instructional materials, ill-equipped or absence of laboratories and workshops, and dilapidated infrastructures.

To resolve some of these problems, the state government expended over N700million on rehabilitation of classrooms, laboratories, dormitories and other vital infrastructure in various post primary schools in the State.  Other interventions also include the procurement of science equipment, desks, chairs and other instructional materials for both the post primary and tertiary institutions.  Government has also improved the quality of feeding for students in boarding schools by revising the daily feeding rate upward from N30:00 per child per day to N45:00. 

Furthermore in fulfillment of one of our pledges to the people of Kano State, we have abolished the payment of all forms of fees for girls in post primary schools in the State. We extended a similar gesture to our students in science secondary schools by waving the payment of boarding fees. These are intended to reduce the prevailing harsh economic condition in the country on parents as well as promote girls education in the State.

Upon assumption to office, this administration identified shortage of qualified teachers as a major constraint to the success of any reform in the education sector.  Consequently, we facilitated the take-off of the Teachers’ Service Board and simultaneously approved the recruitment of 2000 new teachers in critical disciplines.  It is our hope that these measures will facilitate the return of the education sector to its glorious days.

Health

May I also remark that our administration had achieved a modest success in its effort to improve health care delivery in the State.  Within the period under review, over N156million was expended on the provision of specialized equipment, 2No. 500KVA standby electrical generating sets and other medical accessories at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital. Murtala Muhammad Hospital is the foremost Government-owned tertiary health centre, attracting thousands of patients every day, not only from within our State, but also from other states and even beyond our borders. In this light therefore, an expenditure of N24million was incurred in the construction and equipping of an 80-bed maternity block at this important hospital.  Another sum of N51million was also expended in the expansion/rehabilitation and equipping of Dawanau Psychiatric Hospital, Marmara and Sharada Health Centres.

In the area of manpower, may I also report that this Administration had, within this period, also accorded attention to the recruitment of additional professional staff comprising doctors, nurses, pharmacists and other specialists.  A total of 191 of such professionals were engaged or re-engaged to provide the additional manpower urgently needed in the sector.

Information and Culture

One of the essential features of democracy is freedom of expression, as contained in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, (1999). Our collective experience in the immediate past however was of a flagrant abuse of this fundamental civic right, where the majority of the citizens of this State were denied access to the State controlled media.  The few among us that attempted to exercise their rights of free speech through other means did not only evoke the anger of the totalitarian regime, but also suffered all forms of threats and intimidation.  High State officials and State-owned media were mobilized to denigrate and chastise such people for daring the regime they voted to office.

In keeping with our pledge to ensure justice and fairness to all, and restore the rights and liberties of citizens, this Administration had since liberalized access to state-controlled media. This can be attested to by the conduct of programmes at the new Radio Kano and CTV 67. 

At this juncture, let me indicate that as elected representatives, we are, and will remain open to contributions, receptive to observations and accommodating to criticisms.  It is in our desire to engender the ascendancy of an open and participatory leadership style that we introduced a public discussion forum tagged “Dandalin Tattaunawa” for citizens to freely come forward and express their views on issues of governance.  We have already conducted such open discussions in several local government areas of the State as well as for citizens of Kano resident in Kaduna, Lagos and Abuja.

Social Development, Youth and Sports

Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, in the area of social development, the Administration has recorded some measure of success within this short period.  In the area of Shari’ah implementation, we reconstituted the State Shari’ah Implementation Advisory Committee and subsequently established the State Shari’ah Commission and the Zakkah and Hubusi Commission. Consequent upon your endorsement of our bill, the Hisbah Board has also been established to coordinate hisbah activities throughout the State. I can report to this noble House that a lot of planning work is going on at each of these three new establishments, and that Government stands prepared to implement programs aimed at building a God-fearing and industrious society.

Another important accomplishment in this sector was the introduction of free meals for the needy during the last Ramadan fasting period.  Under the programme tagged “Iftar Sa’im”, the State Government had expended the sum of N54 million in the provision of free meals to over 10,000 people every day throughout the holy month of Ramadan. To complement this, the 44 LGA’s were also mobilized to undertake similar gesture within their domains, with each expending a minimum of N3million.

In a related exercise, Government found it necessary to improve the living conditions of the inmates of our Social Homes to make it decent and humane.  This is in keeping with Allah’s injunction, which compels the authority to provide for the weak, the destitute and the poor in the society. Already we have succeeded in renovating structures at these homes, as well as improving the quality of food and other services for the inmates.

Environmental Sanitation

When we assumed office last year, we were immediately confronted with the appalling situation of environmental sanitation, particularly in Kano Metropolis.  This problem was further compounded by lack of serviceable vehicles, poorly motivated workers, grossly inadequate evacuation equipment, as well as other needs for effective refuse management.  Consequently, we undertook the immediate rehabilitation/repairs of existing vehicles and equipment at the cost of over N10million.  This facilitated the repairs of 16Nos. vehicles as well as procurement of additional refuse disposal equipment and implements.

To give refuse disposal continuing attention, we considered it necessary to establish the State Refuse Management and Sanitation Board. This initiative constitutes a foundation for a long-term strategy for effective management of Refuse in the State.  Mr. Speaker, allow me at this point, to once again register my appreciation to this Honourable House for graciously accepting our proposal to establish the Board.  I wish to also report that in our effort to speed up the process of the take-off of the Board, the State Government had expended the sum of N141milion in the procurement of additional refuse collection vehicles, equipment and other implements to complement the existing ones.

To ensure effective coverage, the Board had recruited over 2000 sanitation workers to undertake environmental sanitation duties in Kano Metropolis. By taking this initiative, we are confidant to derive the benefits of a cleaner environment on the one hand, and providing employment to our citizens on the other.

Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members of the House, the foregoing are the highlights of our conduct during the past several months since we took Office.

The Year 2004 Budget

Mr. Speaker and Honourable Members, at this juncture I will like to present to you the year 2004 Budget proposals of our Government.  Before I delve into the details however, I invite your kind attention to note that in articulating these proposals, special consideration was accorded to incorporate the interests of all the arms of Government, and in particular Members of this august House, upon whom your individual constituencies rest their hopes for development.

Size and Structure of the 2004 Proposed Budget

The 2004 Proposed Budget has a total size of N26.2billion, made up of N17.7billion of recurrent expenditure and N8.5billion for capital expenditure. This is expected to be financed from total appropriated revenue of N23billion and estimated capital receipts of N3.2billion. The State revenue profile consists of N6.7billion Internally Generated Revenue, N17.1billion as Statutory Allocation, N2.4billion as Value Added Tax, and N461.9million as Other Receipts and N3.2billion as Capital Receipts.

Mr. Speaker, Honourable members, the N6.7billion estimated Internally Generated Revenue represents the target set for ourselves.  Out of this figure, N3.7billion is set aside as Stabilization Fund to take care of uncertainties associated with local revenue collection. If our local revenue target is fully attained, this provision will thus become an income to the Government for financing Supplementary Budget in the course of the year. 

On the expenditure side, the recurrent expenditure consists of N7.9billion for Personnel Cost, N6.4billion as Overhead Cost and N3.1billion as provision for Consolidated Revenue Fund charges. The Capital Development Programme on the other hand is made up of N5.3billion expected Surplus over Recurrent Expenditure and N3.2billion as Capital Receipts.

Mr. Speaker, Honourable members might have observed the down sizing of the 2004 Budget by N12.5billion against the previous year’s estimate. The decrease is informed by the realistic projection of our revenue which points at not too encouraging revenue earning prospects for the year 2004.  The decrease is also informed by our resolve to ensure a clean break from the past where revenue projections were mere aggregates aimed at unfairly raising the hopes of the citizens for projects that could not possibly be undertaken due to non-availability of funds. This is uncharitable and a clear deception against unsuspicious and well-meaning citizens. 

In accordance with our resolve to promote transparency in governance, it is our belief that programmes and projects shall be based on realistic projections.  Consequently, I wish to state that the 2004 budget is based on the principles of honesty and transparency.  The projections upon which it was derived are, to the best of our knowledge realistic, while the budget itself represents only a phase within our four-year vision. 

Mr. Speaker, having presented the structure, size and thrust of the budget, permit me to outline the development projects and programmes we intend to undertake during the 2004 fiscal year.

Agriculture

I have earlier stated the resolve of this Administration to make mass food production the cornerstone of our intervention in the real sector of the State economy. In this regard, the sum of N889million is earmarked for the various programmes and projects under KNARDA. We envision the development of 12,883 hectares of Farm Management Training plots for dry and wet season farming, livestock development and maintenance of infrastructure, media services and support to Women-in-Agriculture activities.  Other areas to be covered include, the development of 25 new Fadama areas through the provision of 2,500 Tube-wells and wash-bores, 18.5km access roads, 2Nos. Drilling Rigs, as well as the procurement and distribution of 1000 units of Irrigation Water Pumps and accessories.  It is however relevant to state that the element of cost recovery will be introduced into the programme to ensure sustainability.

On another score, as part of effort to restock our strategic grains reserve, the sum of N250million is allocated for the procurement of 75,675 bags of assorted food grains. This is to mop out excess grains and warehouse it for sale to the public at subsidized rate, to give real meaning to our food security policy. Moreover, Government has encouraged suppliers to bring local grains only, thereby sending the message that this Administration intends to support farmers in a variety of ways, including buying their produce. 

Rural Development

Rural development will continue to be accorded special attention by this Administration.  To enable us register more meaningful impact, we intend to work in tandem with all the major stakeholders, i.e. the Honourable Members of the House of Assembly and the LGAs to execute projects and or provide services required by the people.  Projects and services targeted under this sector include road development, water supply, education, electrification, health care delivery etc.  The sum of N457.7million is accordingly proposed for such undertakings in this fiscal year.

However, considering the significance of rural development to the wellbeing of the majority of the citizens of this State, let me use this medium to appeal to all of us to partake in this noble endeavour. I therefore urge groups and individuals in our communities to execute and/or render positive contributions towards the execution of at least one project of community relevance in the State within this fiscal year.

Livestock Development

Livestock development as an important component of mass food production will also be encouraged through the provision of exotic animals for crossbreeding to enhance the quality of indigenous species.  Similarly, in our effort to eliminate the perennial incidence of farmer/Fulani conflicts over grazing land, special attention will be accorded to the maintenance of grazing reserves, cattle dams and stock routes across the State this year.

In the area of fisheries the sum of N4million is earmarked for the procurement of fishing gears and related inputs for sale to farmers, to improve fishing practices throughout the State. In the same vein, Government intends to embark on the promotion of fish farming as a vital component of our programme of mass food production.

Forestry Development

As part of our effort to check the menace of desert encroachment, a provision for the sum of N56.5million has been made for various forestry programmes. These include development of shelterbelts and forest reserves at Dansoshiya, Gafan and Dudduru. Other areas of activities will also include development of forest reserves at Wudil, Gwarzo, Dambatta and Rano.  Similarly, as part of the ongoing effort to minimize indiscriminate felling of trees for firewood, Government will pursue, with renewed vigour, the promotion of the use of fuel-efficient stoves and coal as alternative sources of energy.

Commerce and Industry

One of our major economic objectives is the revival of commercial and industrial activities in the State, such that Kano will reclaim its rightful position as a leading commercial and industrial centre in Nigeria. Accordingly, we intend to explore avenues for active participation in the on-going privatization exercise, direct investment in other profitable securities and the provision of financial and logistic support to our small and medium scale enterprises (SMSEs).

Government’s plan in the area of acquisition of shares in the public enterprises is to warehouse it for subsequent sale to indigenes of the State.  Meanwhile, we will strive to ensure effective mobilization and sensitization of our citizens to participate in the ongoing privatization exercise through direct acquisition of shares.

In the area of industry, the KSIP will be empowered to assist our ailing industries to gain access to available funding facilities under Small and Medium Industries Equity Investment Schemes (SMIEIS). As a complementary measure, Government is exploring other international investment avenues like the Organisation of Islamic Countries (OIC), Islamic Development Bank (IDB) and others with a view to sourcing grants and highly concessional investment funds to support our efforts. 

Transport (Roads)

We are all ware of the significance of roads to the socio-economic development of a community. It is in the light of this, that Government took stock of all the ongoing road projects in the State and realized that existing commitment in the sector far out-weights the resources at its disposal.  Consequently, Government is compelled to prioritize and execute the project in phases. The sum of N862.8million is earmarked for the completion of ongoing road projects in this fiscal year.  From this amount, the sum of N500milion is set aside for the completion of Dambatta-Fayam-Fayam road, Tariwa road, Madobi-Yako junction road, Ajingi-Gurduba road and Kwanar Zira-Dungurawa road.  Others include Ladin Makole-Warawa, Gabasawa-Zakirai, T/Wada-Faskar Ma’aji and Beli-Zarewa roads.  It is also envisaged that this provision will cater for the continuation of works on Kwanar Garko-Rano, and Dal-Gani-Masu-Gomo road projects.

In a related activity, the sum of N262million is similarly set aside for the completion of some bridges.  These are the Kunza bridge, Dadin Kowa-Kudaru multi state culvert, Challawa-Garu bridge, and Ahmadu Salifu bridge in Bichi Local Government, Garanga and Takai-Faruruwa bridges.

Pursuant to our resolve to minimize expenditure on road construction, this administration has decided to accord priority to the routine maintenance of existing roads network in the State.  The State Ministry of Works has already constituted three (3) roads maintenance teams, while the State has been divided into three corresponding zones for ease of maintenance works across the State. Each maintenance team will be equipped and regularly funded for the routine rehabilitation/maintenance of roads within its area of assignment.

Education

One of the sectors that attracted our immediate attention upon assumption of office was the education sector.  In our continued effort to address some of its numerous problems, the sum of N546million has been earmarked for Capital Development in this sector. This amount is meant to consolidate our initial intervention in the sector, which includes rehabilitation/renovation of educational infrastructure, provision of vital instructional materials and recruitment of teachers. For this year, our targets include the provision of a desk and a chair to one out of every three secondary school students currently sitting on the floor.

While we are conscious of the magnitude of the problems of this important sector, Government is committed to exploring other available avenues to overcome them.  In the mean time, I find it appropriate to re-echo Government’s appeal to all the citizens of this State, friends of the people of Kano  and other philanthropic organizations  to provide  support for education in every way possible.

Health

In accordance with our philosophy of human development, Government will continue to expand and sustain the services in this sector. For this year attention will be paid on the provision of vital equipment, personnel and maintenance of facilities. On this, the sum of N223.8million is allocated for capital projects.  Out of this amount, the sum of N50million has been set aside for the general improvement of existing structures at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, general hospitals at Gwarzo, T/Wada, Rano and other health training institutions like the School of Nursing, School of Health Technology and School for Clinical Assistants at Dambatta.

Correspondingly, another sum of N100million is proposed for Primary Health-Care and Disease Control as well as the improvement of secondary health services across the State. Furthermore, Government has earmarked the sum of N60million for renovation works, provision of furniture and equipment at Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Specialist Hospital and the Infectious Disease Hospital (IDH).

In the area of supply of essential drugs to our hospitals, the Drug Management Agency (DMA) would be supported to produce such drugs to meet a significant part of the needs of our hospitals and other health centres. Other health sector projects that are provided for elsewhere are those proposed by Honourable Members after due consultation with their constituents/communities.

Information and Culture

The role of media in providing information, education and enlightenment, particularly in a democratic system of governance cannot be over emphasized. I have earlier on expressed the resolve of this Administration to use the media to promote and uphold the principle of freedom of expression for citizens of the State. Government also intends to effectively use the media to promote public awareness of its programmes, not for the sake of self-glorification and aggrandizement, but as a means of obtaining feedback, and for measuring relevance, efficacy and impact they have on the lives of the citizens.  Accordingly, the sum of N62.9million has been earmarked for capital undertaking in this sector.

Mr. Speaker, we have noted the requirements, particularly in new digital equipments, of all the State-owned media organizations in order to meet the expectations of our people, and to enable them compete with other media organizations in and outside the State.  In consequence, Government has discovered that the amount is quite substantial and not within the immediate reach of our Treasury. We are therefore accordingly exploring a variety of options to fund this important endeavour. 

As part of our efforts towards the moral regeneration of our society, and to conform to the sacred codes of Shari’ah, Government intends to empower the History and Culture Bureau and the Film Censorship Board to discharge their functions effectively. Government has already ordered for the closure of its own GIDAN WASA, along Aminu Kano Way, because of the disturbing reports of misuse reaching us.

With regard to the proliferation of objectionable video films and film viewing parlors, I urge members of the public to join in the fight against illicit literature by refusing to patronize such films. I also wish to implore vendors to cooperate with these agencies and stop the propagation of amoral and illicit video films. They should realize the negative consequence of entertaining under-aged children with illicit materials, as we collectively embark on the re-orientation of our society. I will use the opportunity too, to urge parents and guardians to counsel their children against engaging themselves in such unethical affairs. 

Social Development, Youth and Sports

In describing our vision for Kano State, I have pointed out elsewhere, that one of the foremost pledges of this Government is the undertaking that it would pursue a massive program of societal reorientation so that the human capital of Kano State can take the path of sustainable growth.

Consistent with our promise, and to put in place an enduring foundation for the realization of an upright, hardworking and patriotic society, the sum of N465million has been set aside for a variety of new programs. Out of this amount, the sum of N230million is earmarked as an Endowment Fund under Zakkah and Hubusi pilot project. In addition to providing training, skills and general support for our youths and youth groups, the Fund will offer humanitarian services for the less privileged members of society, such as orphans, widows, wayfarers, the sick, mosque attendants and other vulnerable groups.

In our continued pursuit for implementation of the Shari’a in the state, another sum of N90million is provided for capital undertakings by Shari’ah related bodies namely, Shari’ah and Zakkah Commissions and the Hisba Board.

This notwithstanding, pursuant to our resolve to harness the potentials of our youths for purposeful development, this Administration would continue to develop policies and programmes that would provide employment opportunities for our teeming unemployed youths that are roaming the streets. Accordingly, our programme of Societal Re-orientation and Mass Food Production would contain job creation components.  As part of the endeavour, the Ministry of Education and the Guidance and Counseling Board will liaise closely to secure job opportunities and other avenues for further education to graduates and other school leavers.

On another score, we recognized the significance and contribution of sports to healthy living, promotion of understanding and cohesion among the population in the state. Consequently, Government will accord the development of sport and sporting infrastructure special attention in this fiscal year. The State Ministry of Education will similarly explore ways and means of reviving and promoting sports in school curriculum to assist in the physical and mental development of our youth.

Urban and Regional Planning

Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, in the wake of wanton abuse of planning regulations in the State for many years, this Administration is determined to restore order to urban planning and management. Consequently, we stand ready to enforce compliance with laid down regulations governing land management and allocation, building plans and environmental hygiene. For this fiscal year, the sum of N477million has been earmarked for capital development under the sector.

Similarly, Government would continue to seek for ways for easing traffic congestion occasioned by heavy-duty vehicles and luxurious buses in Kano metropolitan area.  Thus, as part of measures to ease both human and traffic congestion, another sum of N260million is allocated for the development of infrastructure in new layouts, land compensation and provision of modern survey equipment to the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning. This amount would also carter for the establishment of a control unit in the Ministry, where 29 persons would be employed and trained as Development Control Marshals to check wrongful development of land and control the erection of structures alongside roads. We shall provide the unit with three new buses and reactivate the KASEPPA liaison offices in the 44 local governments of the State.

Housing

Realizing that Government’s intervention to provide affordable housing is a perennial source of hope for low-income families, this Administration has allocated the sum of N318million for housing development through Kano State Housing Corporation. Out of this provision, the sum of N205million would be devoted to the construction of 12Nos. houses in each of the 44 LGA’s giving a total of 528 houses.  Similarly, with the recapitalization of Dala Building Society and the attendant benefits arising there-from, we anticipate a quantum leap in the housing sector within the current financial year.

Community Development

Current development initiatives the world over recognize working together with communities as the most effective strategy for sustainable human development.  In line with our determination to pursue a participatory approach to governance, we intend to work closely with Community Based Organizations (CBOs), Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Private Sector Organisations (PSOs), and Civil Society Organisations, (CSOs) to articulate and implement community based projects. Government will in particular liaise with local government councils in the State in this endeavour for ease of goal attainment.

Water Supply

Honourable members, the provision of potable water to urban and rural dwellers in the State would continue to be accorded priority by this Administration. In this regard, the sum of N642million has been set aside for this important sub-sector. Out of this amount, the sum of N400million is for the procurement of Water Treatment Chemicals, while the sum of N110million is earmarked for the expansion and improvement of Water Treatment Plants at Challawa, Tamburawa and Kusalla.

As part of our long-term strategy for improvement of water supply across the State, let me once again restate our resolve to pursue other avenues for funding and the provision of technical support from both within and outside the country to achieve our goal.  Already we are working with the Federal Government to secure technical assistance under the National Urban Water Sector Reform Programme. 

While we look forward to the future with hope, let me appeal to the generality of our citizens to preserve and protect water and all public utilities from vandalisation.  I also appeal to those who are benefiting from the recent improvement in water  supply, particularly industries and other commercial concerns, to always settle their obligations to the Water Board as and when due. This is the only way we can sustain improved operations.

General Administration

Mr. Speaker, this is a service sector that encompasses special undertakings by Government, particularly those services that are of general application to all sectors.  The sum of N1.6billion is being proposed for the sector.  Out of this figure, the sum of N650million is set aside for Special Projects. It is from this provision that we intend to finance some of the key programmes of the Administration such as Societal Re-orientation, Women and Youth’s development, Informal Education and Information Technology, NGOs Activities etc.

Under General Administration, the sum of N386million is earmarked for capital commitment. This provision is meant to be a safety valve against probable shortfall in revenue as well as to carter for unforeseen expenditure that normally arises in the course of the year.

Also provided in this sector is the sum of N350million for Special Expenditure items and the sum of N170million for the provision of office accommodation. These provisions will cater for the purchase of vehicles, office furniture and equipment, and for other logistics as well as construction/expansion of office accommodation for various Government agencies, including the High Court, Deputy Governor’s Office, Audit Department and the newly established Ministry for Local Government and Community Development.

Project Monitoring Bureau

To ensure that all Government initiatives are being executed according to plan, we consider it necessary to evaluate and monitor, on a continuing basis, not only our physical projects, but also our programs. In order to effectively realize this objective, the Project Monitoring Department of the Ministry of Planning and Budget has been upgraded to the status of a Bureau.

Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, I am sure you will agree with me that  evaluating and monitoring the programmes contained in this maiden budget could not effectively be undertaken without competent professionals, specialized in the various sectors.

Consequently, the Bureau would be injected with requisite professionals from within the Civil Service to carry out regular monitoring duty. Also in areas requiring specialized attention, Government has resolved to engage the services of professionals outside the Civil Service to complement existing staff. 

Mr. Speaker Honourable members, I want to clearly state here that the Bureau has been empowered to monitor and evaluate all programs and projects involving the State Government.

Allow me to use this opportunity to call on ministries, departments, directorates and commissions to ensure that they submit their monthly, quarterly and annual reports/returns to the Ministry of Planning and Budget and the Project Monitoring Bureau in good time. The purpose is to enable the Government to keep tract of the status of projects and programs as well as the financial positions of project executing organizations. This way any deviation can be early detected and quickly rectified. 

Accountability and Transparency.

As we commit ourselves to a faithful implementation of our programmes, let me restate the resolve of this Administration to be transparent in conduct, to remain open in its dealings and to be accountable on all its undertakings. It is in this regard that I implore all public officeholders including the civil servants to imbibe this spirit, promote public interest and uphold the truth in both their personal and official transactions.

On our part, we have put in place the necessary machinery to monitor and evaluate all the activities of Government to ensure realization of our objectives as well as compliance with laid down rules and regulations. 

Again, in the drive for societal renewal, this august Assembly has an important role to play. As elected and the true representative of the people, you should help in sensitizing and organizing your constituents for community work; you should also ensure that ministries and Government officials discharge their obligations to the populace effectively.

Elections into Local Government Councils.

In a couple of days we will be discharging another constitutional obligation vested on the State, i.e. organizing elections into the 44 Local Government Councils of the State. Mr. Speaker, Honourable members, this event affords us yet another opportunity to demonstrate our ability to conduct free and fair elections based on the universally accepted principles of democracy. I have at various fora and occasions, stated our pledge and determination to be just and fair to all, and to conduct elections without recourse to violent intimidation, manipulation and other horrendous acts that characterized our immediate past experiences.

According to the popular dictum, democratic government is a government elected by the people and working to serve the people.  For us, democracy must operate within the ambit of the sacred teachings of Islam, which enjoins fairness; justice and above all, the total submission to the Devine will of Allah the Almighty.  That is why we found it necessary to maintain the status-quo in the composition of the State Electoral Commission we inherited from a PDP-controlled government. This is based on our firm belief that it is only Allah the Almighty that grants success to who so ever He wishes. 

We also are confident that the current members of the Commission are quite conscious of their obligations, their oaths and their reputation, and will strive to guard and protect them. I therefore appeal to my dear colleagues from all the political divides to exhibit a sense of decorum in their expressions, utterances and conduct.  We should all recognize that the interest and well being of the people we seek to represent are paramount and sacred and we must therefore shun all acts that could bring suffering, injury or loss to them.

In our determination to put behind us the bad memories of our immediate past, I have since instructed the State-owned media to grant equal access to aspirants from all political parties to advertise and canvass for support in the prelude to the on-coming elections.

To the members of the general public, let me once again appeal to you to come out en-masse to exercise your civil right by voting the candidate and the party of your choice on the day of the election. I however hasten to draw your kind attention to resist all forms of intimidation, monetary or material inducement and or any other narrow and self-seeking influence in casting your votes.  You should use your votes effectively to reject candidates and parties seeking to subvert and abuse your rights as a people, squander your resources and transgress in their personal and official dealings with you if voted into office.

Conclusion

As I conclude my address, I would like to be the first to state before this noble house that whatever achievements we might have recorded during the short period we stayed in office so far is due to your support and that of the good people of Kano State. I am therefore confident that the year 2004 will not be any different, insha Allah. The lessons we have learnt within the period of our stay in office will certainly help to prepare us to face the challenges of 2004 with greater vigour and a renewed commitment to our people, particularly in the areas highlighted earlier.

Finally, Mr. Speaker and Honourable members, may I appeal to your good sense of responsibility and patriotism to consider the proposals and give your stamp of approval early enough for us to commence implementation of the 2004 Budget in good time.

Thank you and God bless.