Kaduna dep gov, others harp on rebuilding trust in public institutions

The Kaduna State Deputy Governor, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, and other experts have listed ways of rebuilding the nation’s public institutions to gain the trust of Nigerians

They spoke during a webinar organised by the Connected Development (CODE) titled “Rebuilding Trust in Public Institutions”, meant to examine the picture of basic public service for the average person which appear bleak in Nigeria.

It was moderated by Kewve Oghide, CODE’s Communications Lead.

Dr. Balarabe, who spoke on the role of Government, said the issue of trust in public institutions is not peculiar to Nigeria as many countries across the world are also under pressure to meet rising citizens expectations.

According to her, the Kaduna State Government has rebuilt trust by providing functioning primary healthcare centres, laying-off incompetent teachers and revamping the education system in the state.

“Trust has been rebuilt because young people are at the fore-front of industrialisation in Kaduna State and they have been delivering enormously for the state.

“Because of the level of trust built, Kaduna has attracted over $500,000 in investment. Kaduna also publishes her annual audit report yearly, organises town hall meetings to get feedback from the people,”she said.

Also, Senior Program Officer, MacArthur Foundation, Dr. Amina Salihu, who spoke on the role of civil societies, said that trust is earned as a result of being accountable, responsive, and that CSOs are strategic pathfinders who need to help citizens to recognise their right to access basic needs and improved public services; and how they can use their voice and actions to drive change.

On his part, a board member, Ministry of Finance, Dr. Joe Abba,  said that the decline in trust is traceable to a number of things and issues like the current corruption allegations in NDDC.

Renown investigative journalist, Mr Fisayo Soyombo, on the role of the media, said that though the media has a huge responsibility to play, the Government has the bulk of the job.

He said that people who want trust have to earn it, adding “If we want a media that is more alive, people have to support good journalism.”