By Chinaza Osigwe
The Anambra State Government, through its Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has officially launched the second phase of the Open Government Partnership (OGP) Action Plan, aimed at promoting transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance.
The event, held recently in Awka, marked a significant step in the state’s ongoing efforts to enhance openness in budget implementation and governance, while strengthening the relationship between the government and the people.
In her welcome address, Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Mrs. Chiamaka Nnake, highlighted the importance of the OGP initiative in advancing Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision of inclusive and accountable governance.
“The successful implementation of OGP Action Plan I laid a solid foundation for today’s launch,” she said. “Under Governor Soludo’s leadership, Anambra State has embraced a new era of excellence characterized by transparency, accountability, and open governance.”
UNICEF Representative, Mr. Atthawoot Op Sangkharat, in his goodwill message, emphasized UNICEF’s continued support for the OGP framework. He noted that the organization views the partnership as a crucial tool for enhancing government responsiveness, particularly in sectors impacting children and marginalized groups.
“UNICEF is committed to promoting greater transparency, accountability, and public participation through the OGP. This platform allows governments to make concrete commitments to improve education, health, and social services,” he stated.
The launch of OGP Action Plan II reaffirms Anambra’s position as a progressive state in governance reforms and underscores the importance of collaboration between government and development partners in driving sustainable change.
