FG unveils policy documents for evidence-based governance, resource allocation

The federal government has unveiled two policy documents to enhance evidence-based governance and ensure efficient allocation of public resources.

The two policy documents unveiled include the national power of data high impact initiative, national strategy for the development of statistics (NSDS III) 2024 to 2028, and the 2024 review of sustainable development goals (SDGs) in Nigeria.

NAN reports that George Akume, secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), said the initiatives show the government’s resolve to ensure that decisions are guided by reliable, timely, and credible data.

Akume, represented by Ibrahim Kana, permanent secretary, general services at the office of the SGF, commended the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) for producing comprehensive strategic documents capable of transforming governance.

The SGF said the power of the data roadmap and the NSDS 2024-2028 are not policy documents.

He noted that the documents are instruments of national transformation aimed at ensuring efficient allocation of public resources, inclusive development and visibility for all citizens.

The SGF called on ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) and subnational governments to incorporate the use of data in policy formulation, programme implementation and performance tracking.

“The foundation upon which this vision of a modern state would be built is a strong national statistical system that produces statistical evidence in a timely, efficient and sustainable manner,” he said.

Abubakar Bagudu, the minister of budget and national planning, said both documents were conceived by the NBS in collaboration with other partners.

The minister, represented by Deborah Onoh, a permanent secretary at the ministry, said the documents would serve as the blueprint for developing Nigeria’s national statistical system over the next four to five years.

The minister said there is a need for sustained evidence-based decision-making to ensure that reforms translate into tangible benefits for citizens.