The Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning has inaugurated the Technical Working Committee for the HOPE Governance Programme to strengthen governance reforms, service delivery and human capital development across Nigeria.
The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Dr. Deborah Odoh, inaugurated the Technical Working Committee of the Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity (HOPE) Governance Programme.
Odoh described the committee’s inauguration as a major step in implementing the programme, noting that it complements the Renewed
Hope Ward Development Programme by improving service delivery and human capital outcomes at the grassroots level.
She said the committee will provide technical guidance, oversee key result areas and support capacity-building efforts under the programme.
She urged members to work with dedication and professionalism to drive reforms that improve the well-being of Nigerians.
Speaking at the event, the National Coordinator of the HOPE Governance Programme, Dr. Hassan Assad, highlighted efforts to address challenges in basic education and primary healthcare.
He said that “the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has revised its guidelines to make it easier for states to access intervention funds.The new guidelines also require UBEC to publish quarterly details of funds transferred to states.”
Assad noted that states must access and utilise matching grant funds within the stipulated timeframe or risk forfeiting them for reallocation.
He said “the measure is aimed at ensuring public funds are effectively used to improve schools and support children.”
Assad said that the programme seeks to increase funding and improve financing efficiency in the education and healthcare sectors.
According to him, verification of programme results across states and the FCT is nearing completion, with findings expected to be released soon.
The HOPE Governance Programme is a $500 million World Bank-supported initiative domiciled in the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.
