Ekiti State Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Hon Folorunsho Olabode, has described Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) as a critical instrument in ensuring fiscal discipline , budget credibility and efficient allocation of resources.
Olabode spoke while declaring declaring open a one day Workshop on Medium Term MTEF, in Ado Ekiti, capital of Ekiti State.
The Workshop organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Budget, Economic Planning and Performance Management attended by Council Chairmen, Heads of Local Government Administration, Directors of Budget, Directors of Administration and Directors of Finance in the Local Govt service was crucial to the improvement of planning and budgeting processes at the local government level.
The Commissioner commended the leadership of the State Governor, Mr.Biodun Oyebanji for providing enabling environment for local governance in the State, ensuring financial autonomy for the third tier of government in line with the constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He lauded the Governor for ensuring that limited resources of the Councils are channeled to the most pressing needs across Communities in the State.
While appreciating Ekiti Association of Local Govt of Nigeria (ALGON) for their cooperation, loyalty , support , presence and willingness to learn and adapt in the course of the tenure, the Local Govt Affairs boss explained that MTEF provides a performance bench mark and a monitoring framework through which progress could be measured , adjustments can be made and public confidence earned.
In his goodwill message, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Hon. Femi Ajayi also disclosed that olden days MTEF preparation differs from the recent days which is in line with National Chart of Accounts (NCOA) programme.
He lauded the state government for being prudent, transparent, accountable and maintaining integrity in finances, budgeting and other areas.
Earlier in his opening speech, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Babatunde Olaoye said the Workshop represented another step in the collective commitment to strengthening fiscal discipline, enhancing budget credibility and aligning local government planning process with international best practices in line with fiscal responsibility law.
He commended the present administration for prioritizing institutional strengthening ,grassroot development and public sector innovation.
In his remarks , the Chairman, Association of Local Governments Chairman of Nigeria (ALGON) Hon. Olusegun Ojo, commended Ekiti State government for being ranked the best in terms of financial management and fiscal transparency, promising to put in their best to achieve the purpose of MTEF.
Stakeholders at the Workshop included the Chairman Ekiti Fiscal Responsibility Commission, Mr. Alfred Ologuntoye, PS, LG ES, SSA and SAs