THE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY VOL. 3 NO. 54 AUGUST 2023

Abstract

This edition presents a rich array of articles, each highlighting crucial issues and noteworthy initiatives spearheaded by Governors across the nation.

In the sphere of healthcare, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State made a significant stride by distributing maternal drugs worth over N800 million to five general hospitals. This strategic allocation aimed to bolster maternal healthcare services and prioritize the welfare of expectant mothers within the state. Similarly, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State unveiled a noteworthy announcement regarding the implementation of the 2014 Consolidated Medical Salary Scale (CONMESS) for Resident Doctors in the state's Ministry of Health. This decision was a pivotal component of the governor's comprehensive approach to address various sector challenges and enhance healthcare delivery.

On the economic front, the newsletter delved into the critical subject of fuel subsidy removal. It underscored the fiscal pressures faced by the government, with the subsidy constituting a substantial portion of the federal budget. While the elimination of the subsidy was viewed as a step toward reforming public finances, it also sparked concerns regarding its short-term impact on the populace, particularly low-income households. This piece explored a range of proposed palliative measures at both Federal and State levels, including an increase in the minimum wage and cash transfers, as strategies to mitigate these effects. To ease the commuting challenges resulting from the subsidy removal, Governor Zulum introduced a fleet of 70 buses for metro transport in Borno State.

Education reforms also took center stage in the newsletter. A groundbreaking collaboration between NewGlobe and the Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF) promised transformative changes in the nation's education sector. This partnership aims to extend basic education reforms nationwide, heralding a new era of progress in education. Governor Zulum further advanced the cause of education by approving the recruitment of 4,000 new teachers in Borno State. These educators were meticulously evaluated and selected to enhance the quality of education in public primary and secondary schools across the state.

To bolster security, the Kaduna State government initiated the training of an additional 7,000 vigilante members to strengthen community policing endeavors. This underscored the paramount importance of enhancing the manpower and operational capabilities of the Kaduna Vigilance Service (KADVS).

In summary, the August edition of the NGF Newsletter encompassed a wide spectrum of topics, ranging from healthcare and education reforms to economic policies, all aimed at elevating the quality of life and well-being of the Nigerian population.