By Amina Ahmed
The Bauchi State Ministry of Budget, Economic Planning and Multilateral Coordination has expressed readiness to partner with the Journalists for Public Health and Development Initiative (J4PD) to enhance public awareness and dissemination of government programmes and policies across the state.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr Ibrahim Rufai, made the commitment on Friday while receiving officials of the organisation during a courtesy visit in Bauchi.
Rufai said the ministry recognized the strategic role of the media in promoting transparency, visibility and public engagement in governance, adding that collaboration with organisations like J4PD would help ensure that citizens are adequately informed about government initiatives. He noted that the ministry had closely monitored the activities of the organisation and was willing to work together in advancing development communication in the state.
“The media is key in any activity or engagement conducted by an organisation because it provides visibility and keeps the public informed,” Rufai stated.
He added that effective communication of policies and programmes remained essential to achieving government objectives and strengthening public participation in development efforts.
Earlier, the State Coordinator of J4PD, Ms Elizabeth Kah, said the organisation had continued to partner with several institutions to promote public health and development issues in Bauchi State.
She explained that J4PD currently works with the United Nations Population Fund as a media partner to publicise its activities and those of six collaborating ministries.
Kah further stated that the organisation remained committed to supporting programmes aimed at improving Maternal, Child and Newborn Health (MNCH), Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Services, Basic Education, Social Inclusion, Good Governance and other Development Issues that enhances human capital development.
She expressed J4PD’s readiness to collaborate with institutions dedicated to safeguarding public health and other Social Service Programs in Bauchi State and North-East region.
