The Ministry of Innovation and Digital Economy (MIDE), Sokoto, defended its 2026 budget proposal before the Sokoto State House of Assembly Committee on Science, Technology, Innovation and Digital Economy.
The delegation was led by the Commissioner, Hon. Bashar Umar Kwabo, alongside the Permanent Secretary, Dr Nasir Daniya, mni.
In his remarks, the Commissioner appreciated the Committee’s continued support and outlined the Ministry’s mandates, achievements, and ongoing programs, while emphasizing the need for adequate funding to strengthen digital governance and ICT infrastructure across the State.
Hon. Kwabo highlighted key milestones achieved, including the passage of the Sokoto Information and Communications Technology Development Agency (SICTDA) Bill, which was subsequently assented to by the Governor of Sokoto, Dr. Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto.
“These achievements demonstrate the commitment of both the Executive and Legislature to strengthening the institutional framework for ICT development and digital governance in the State,” he added.
He further emphasized the importance of digital skills training and capacity building as key drivers of innovation, improved service delivery, and sustainable economic growth, while urging the provision of adequate budgetary allocations for the 2026 fiscal year.
In his response, the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Awaisu M. Aliyu, commended the Ministry’s presentation and assured the Committee’s support for the effective implementation of approved capital projects and initiatives aimed at advancing the digital economy across the State.
The budget defense concluded with interactive engagements between the Committee and the Ministry’s delegation as part of the legislative review of the 2026 Appropriation Bill.
The meeting was attended by Directors and Heads of Units of both the Ministry and the Sokoto Information and Communications Technology Development Agency (SICTDA).
Muhammad Abubakar
25-11-2025
