Sokoto Govt, UNFPA trains M&E officers on capacity building

By Gbolahan Salman, Sokoto

The Sokoto State Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning has concluded a five-day capacity-building training for UNFPA Programme Officers and Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Officers, with the aim of enhancing evidence-based decision-making and strengthening results-based management practices across the state.

The closing ceremony was marked by a vote of thanks delivered on Friday by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Maryam Ahmad Barade, who represented the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning.

She described the training as a critical milestone in the state’s development agenda, especially in improving data analysis, reporting, and results-driven project implementation.

“I must sincerely appreciate the Executive Governor of Sokoto State, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, for giving us the opportunity to serve as the coordinating ministry for this important initiative,” Barade stated.

“Our gratitude also goes to UNFPA for their consistent financial and technical support.”

She noted that the training covered key thematic areas including results-based management, the role of M&E in decision-making, data collection and analysis, and the use of M&E tools for effective reporting.

Barade added that the participants—drawn from various ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs)—were now better equipped to deliver on their mandates using enhanced monitoring and evaluation strategies.

The Permanent Secretary also commended the resilience and leadership of the Honourable Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, whose commitment ensured the successful implementation of the training.

She extended her appreciation to the coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs), the media, and all participants for their active engagement and support throughout the training.

“On behalf of the Ministry, I thank you all for your commitment and endurance during the sessions. I wish you safe journeys back to your various destinations,” she concluded.

The training was supported by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) as part of its ongoing collaboration with Sokoto State to promote sustainable development through data-driven governance and capacity strengthening.