By Ahmed Ahmed
The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) successfully conducted a one-day workshop on promoting transparency and accountability in governance through technology.
The event, held at the M.A Abdullahi Conference Hall, NUJ Secretariat Complex, Bauchi on Thursday,highlighted the critical role of technology in ensuring that government projects are completed on time and within budget.
Mujahid Ibrahim, CITAD’s Program Officer, pointed out the presentation of CITAD’s Office of the Citizens,
“An innovative Android mobile application designed to empower citizens by providing real-time updates on government-funded projects and enabling public oversight.
Ibrahim, emphasized the importance of empowering citizens with the tools necessary to hold government officials accountable and ensure that public funds are used efficiently.
“Public project tracking is essential for transparency and accountability in governance. With tools like the Office of the Citizens app.
“We are giving citizens a voice and a platform to engage with their governments and demand proper use of resources,” said Mujahid.
Key speakers at the event included the Director of Planning, Ministry of Budget, Economic Planning and Multilateral Coordination, Mr lawan Bako who spoke on the significance of technology in public project tracking and the various technologies that can facilitate it.
The event concluded with a hands-on practical session where participants were trained on how to use the Office of the Citizens effectively.
Participants shared their insights on the challenges and solutions in public project tracking, emphasizing the need for:
Hajiya Halima Dimis, representing the Open Government Partnership (OGP) Secretariat, delivered the closing remarks, commending CITAD for their efforts in promoting transparency and emphasizing the importance of such initiatives in ensuring good governance.
“CITAD’s innovative approach to promoting transparency and accountability is commendable. We look forward to continued collaboration and progress in this critical area,” said Dimis.
The workshop demonstrated CITAD’s commitment to leveraging technology for improved governance and citizen engagement.