
By: Monday Danladi, Bauchi
The Forty member Bauchi State Consultative Committee on Statistics (SCCS) under the State Bureau of Statistics (BBS) was on Thursday inaugurated with the aim of having a data base for accurate statistical analysis for growth and development.
The inauguration of the Committee was presided over by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Aminu Hammayo who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Budget, Economic Planning and Multilateral Coordination, Jibrin Mohammed Yusuf at the Conference Hall of Development Exchange Centre (DEC).
While addressing the Committee members, he told them that, “Your appointment is not only in recognition of your individual expertise and commitment but also a demonstration of our government’s determination to embrace data-driven governance and policy formulation.”
The SSG added that, “The establishment of the State Consultative Committee on Statistics (SCCS) represents a significant milestone in our quest for robust development, good governance, and sustainable progress. In the modern era, data is the foundation of informed decision-making.”
He added, “Every policy, every intervention, and every developmental initiative hinges on the availability, accuracy and integrity of data. As such, the SCCS will serve as a critical platform for ensuring that statistical data within our state is reliable, comprehensive, and reflective of the prevailing realities.”
“The SCCS is expected to meet twice a year with the following Terms of Reference (TOR): Develop strategies which will ensure uniform standard and methodology amongst the various
agencies with a view to improving on the quality, comparability and timeliness of their statistical outputs,”he added.
It is also to examine the statistical programmes of the various agencies annually in order to achieve greater coordination and avoid unnecessary duplication of efforts, and evolve a state statistics program and eview and proffer advice on conditions of service and the training of personnel.
“In this regard, the work of the Committee will be pivotal in not only providing expert advice on statistical matters but also in ensuring that our state’s data collection, analysis, and dissemination processes are transparent, efficient, and conducive to evidence- based policymaking. By providing timely and accurate data, the SCCS will empower the government and various stakeholders to make informed decisions that will ultimately benefit our communities, our businesses, and our citizens,” he stressed.
Aminu Hammayo stressed that,”As we gather here today, we are not only inaugurating a Committee but also inaugurating a vision-one where every decision taken by the government is rooted in data, where every action is underpinned by verifiable evidence. This is critical, as we continue to strive towards greater economic development, social welfare, and infrastructural growth within our state.”
The SSG stressed that the role of statistics in governance cannot be overstated as it serves as the backbone of planning processes and the yardstick by which to measure progress stating, “We must therefore ensure that statistical integrity is maintained at all times, and that the insights derived from this data are used to craft policies that resonate with the needs and aspirations of the people.”
According to him, “It is imperative to inform this gathering that the establishment of Bauchi State Bureau of Statistics by His Excellency the State Executive Governor was informed by the high premium attached to evidence based planning and good governance.”
To the members of the SCCS, Aminu Hammayo implored them to remain committed to the core values of transparency, accuracy, and integrity in all your work stating,”You are
entrusted with an immense responsibility, and we have full confidence in your ability to guide the State Bureau of Statistics in the fulfillment of its mandate.”
“In conclusion, let me reiterate the commitment of the State Executive Governor to continue supporting initiatives that foster data-driven governance, transparency, and accountability. This is just the beginning of a new chapter in our state’s developmental journey, and together, we will solidify the foundation for a future that is not only prosperous but also fair, equitable, and inclusive and on the overall justified by evidence,” he concluded.
In his remarks, the Statistician General of the State, Lawal Bako commended the State Government for creating the State Office of Statistics and providing it with a befitting accommodation for effective operations.
He assured that the operations will ensure accurate availability of data statistics for growth and development considering the importance of such in planning and implementation of programmes.