The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Bauchi Field Office, and U-Report has embarked on a one-day capacity building training of youth advocates in Bauchi State on the budget process and its impact on child development.
The training focused on advocating for increased investment in child-friendly sectors through improved and adequate budgeting.
The one-day engagement brought together 25 U-Reporters from across the state.
It could be recalled that U-Report is UNICEF’s global platform that empowers young people to speak out on issues that matter to them, access trusted information, and drive positive change in their communities.
It operates in over 90 countries using digital technology and real-time insights to influence policies and decision-making.
Speaking at the event, Mr Abubakar Usman, a representative from the Bauchi State Ministry of Budget, Economic Planning, and Multilateral Coordination, highlighted the importance of public understanding and participation in the budgeting process.
According to him the budget belongs to the people and the youth must understand how it works so they could advocate for the right priorities, especially those affecting children.
He added that the ministry encourages feedback and public contributions to ensure the budget reflects the needs of all, especially vulnerable groups.
Also speaking, Mrs Sophie Safratu-Bako, a resource person at the training, described the budget as a financial plan that outlines government revenue and expenditure for a fiscal year.
She emphasized its role in promoting equitable development across key sectors such as education, health, infrastructure, and security.
“Budgeting is not just about numbers—it is about people and priorities,” she said. “Young people have the power to influence policies. Your voices can ensure child-focused priorities are reflected in public spending.”
Earlier Mr Opeyemi Olaguju, Communications Officer, UNICEF Bauchi Field Office, said it was high time the youth advocated for the need to hold leaders accountable and ensure children’s needs were prioritized in public budgets.
“Young advocates must champion good governance and demand increased investment in sectors that directly affect their lives and futures,” he urged.
The engagement aimed to equip youth with the knowledge and tools needed to analyze budgets, engage in advocacy, and participate meaningfully in governance processes for a better and more inclusive future.
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