The Director of Budget at the Sokoto State Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Buhari Umar, has been named the ‘2024 Most Outstanding Public Administrator of the Year’ by the Champion Newspapers.
The prestigious award, announced earlier this week, recognised Umar’s exceptional leadership in Public Finance Management, Transparency, and Policy Implementation, establishing him as one of Nigeria’s leading figures in modern governance.
The development was contained in a statement issued to journalists in Sokoto on Sunday by the State’s Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr Abubakar Zayana.
Describing the award as a “well-earned tribute to a man who has made excellence his standard and service his calling,” Zayana praised Umar’s transformative leadership in budgeting and development planning.
“Under Umar’s stewardship, the Sokoto State budgeting process had undergone significant transformation, aligning fiscal strategies with development goals and improving socio-economic outcomes across the state.
“Known for his discipline and analytical depth, he has consistently promoted prudent resource allocation and transparency in public expenditure.
“His name now stands tall among the giants who have reshaped the story of public service in Nigeria,” Zayana said.
A Fellow of the Les Aspin Centre for Governance & Anti-Corruption in Washington, D.C., USA, Umar is widely respected for his visionary approach to participatory governance and people-centered policy design.
He is admired for his calm demeanor under pressure and his track record of delivering measurable results.
Zayana stated that Umar’s recognition by the Champion Newspapers came at a crucial time when state governments across Nigeria were facing growing pressure to improve financial accountability and drive inclusive growth.
He said, “Citizens acknowledge that Umar’s work in Sokoto could serve as a model for other states seeking to strengthen budgeting systems and better align with national development priorities.
“The Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning congratulated Umar, describing him as “a shining star, a tireless reformer, and an enduring symbol of what it means to serve with honour and integrity.
“The ministry also expresses confidence in his continued contributions to sustainable development in Sokoto State and beyond.” (NAN)
