The Speaker of the Gombe State House of Assembly, Hon. Muhammad Abubakar Luggerewo, has assured that northern governors will soon present a common position on the ongoing national tax reform discussions.
The speaker made this disclosure while addressing journalists after the opening of a four-day legislative retreat held at Mtown Motel in Dutse, Jigawa State.
“This is a contentious issue,” Luggerewo said. “While I cannot provide details at the moment, I am confident that our northern governors will present a position that protects and promotes the interests of the region.”
The retreat, themed “Technology Adoption for Democratic Development and Promoting e-Legislative Processes,” aims to equip lawmakers with the knowledge and skills necessary to enhance legislative efficiency through information technology (IT).
Luggerewo stressed the importance of adopting IT to improve legislative processes and governance in Gombe State.
“By leveraging IT, we will strengthen our legislative duties, enhance democracy, and ensure more efficient public service delivery,” he noted.
The Speaker extended his appreciation to Jigawa State Governor Malam Umar Namadi for attending the opening session of the retreat.
He praised Namadi’s leadership and commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy to Jigawa’s citizens.
In his remarks, Governor Namadi lauded the Gombe Assembly’s focus on technological adoption, emphasizing its potential to enhance transparency and accountability in governance.
“The theme of this retreat underscores the Assembly’s commitment to promoting transparency,” Namadi said. “Embracing digital tools will streamline legislative processes, enabling the timely passage of laws that enhance security, social welfare, and economic development.”
He also highlighted the broader role of IT in governance, noting its significance in areas like e-voting, e-business, data transmission, and human capital development.
“Information technology is a vital tool for strengthening democracy. Its adoption will ensure more effective legislative functions and improved governance outcomes,” Namadi added.
The retreat is expected to foster innovation in legislative processes and promote the use of digital tools to enhance governance and public service delivery in Gombe State.