Yobe Speaker Hails Yobe Government’s Transparency, Development Drive
By Baba Dan’Iya
The Speaker of the Yobe State House of Assembly, Chiroma Buba Mashio, has reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment to transparency and accountability in governance.
Mashio stated this in Damaturu on Thursday, shortly before Gov. Mai Mala Buni presented the 2026 budget proposal to the Assembly.
He said the annual budget presentation was a constitutional exercise that demonstrated the state’s dedication to prudent financial management and sustainable development.
“The presentation of the fiscal year budget fulfills the provision of Section 121 (1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which mandates the Governor to lay before the House estimates of revenue and expenditure before the commencement of each financial year,” he said.
Mashio described the 2026 budget presentation as a reaffirmation of Yobe’s democratic accountability, expressing satisfaction with the implementation of previous budgets.
He noted remarkable progress across the state, citing the construction of Yobe’s first flyover in Damaturu, massive road rehabilitation, and agricultural revitalisation programmes as significant achievements.
“The distribution of large-scale farm implements and the introduction of modern agricultural inputs have boosted productivity, mitigated the effects of insecurity, and enhanced food security,” the Speaker said.
Mashio also commended the government’s empowerment schemes, including skill acquisition programmes, conditional cash transfers, and entrepreneurship support, which he said had improved citizens’ livelihoods and self-reliance.
He further lauded the payment of workers’ arrears and benefits, describing it as a demonstration of social justice and human capital development that strengthened family welfare and social stability.
According to him, the legislature remains a dependable partner in governance, committed to deepening collaboration with the executive and judiciary through effective lawmaking, oversight, and public engagement.
“The House has passed key legislations, including amendments to the Yobe State Revenue Codification Law and the Anti-Terrorism Law, to strengthen the state’s fiscal and security frameworks,” he added.
Mashio acknowledged Gov. Buni’s respect for the independence of the legislature, which he said had fostered harmony and cooperation among the three arms of government.
He called on the State Internal Revenue Service and other revenue-generating agencies to block leakages and ensure full implementation of the state’s Revenue Codification Law and Treasury Single Account system.
The Speaker urged lawmakers to approach deliberations on the 2026 budget with patriotism, fairness, and commitment to public interest.
“Our debates must be guided by facts and a determination to uplift the lives of our people,” he said. “Together, we will ensure the budget reflects the collective aspirations of Yobe citizens for peace, prosperity, and progress.”
Mashio, on behalf of the legislators, expressed gratitude to Gov. Buni for his “unwavering commitment to good governance and sustainable development.”
