A delegation from Senegal, led by Mr. Mamadou Niang, recently concluded a visit to the Budget Office of the Federation in Nigeria, signaling a strong interest in deepening economic ties and adopting Nigeria’s advanced digital budgeting systems. The visit, warmly received by Director-General Mr. Tanimu Yakubu, proofs a growing recognition of South-South cooperation as a catalyst for economic growth across the African continent.
Mr. Tanimu Yakubu, in his opening remarks, emphasized the mutual benefits of the economic exchange. “Collaboration between our two nations,” he stated, “promises positive economic growth and expansion. As the saying goes, ‘a single bracelet does not jingle.’ By working together, we can amplify our economic potential and create opportunities for both our countries.”
The Senegalese team’s primary interest lies in understanding and potentially implementing Nigeria’s Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS) and other digital tools for budget preparation. Mr. Niang, acknowledging the timing of the visit during Nigeria’s critical 2026 budget preparation period, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to learn from Nigeria’s experience. He stated that experience sharing between Senegal and Nigeria is invaluable.
A highlight of the visit was a detailed demonstration of GIFMIS, presented by Mrs. Franca Ugbolue of the Economic Expenditure department. Her presentation sparked considerable interest from the Senegalese delegation, prompting in-depth questions about the system’s application and its potential to achieve optimal budgetary outcomes.
Representing the Director-General during the hands-on demonstration, Mrs. Funmi Lasekan, Director of Economic Expenditure, presented Mr. Niang with copies of Nigeria’s Appropriation Bill and budget documents. This gesture, symbolizing the spirit of collaboration, is intended to facilitate further study and knowledge transfer. As the old adage says, “Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.” Nigeria appears keen to empower Senegal with the tools and knowledge to enhance its own budget processes.
This visit represents a significant step towards strengthening economic cooperation between Senegal and Nigeria. By embracing digital innovation and fostering knowledge exchange, both nations hope to pave the way for sustainable economic growth and development, proving that, indeed, “together we stand, divided we fall.”
Signed
Dr. Afolabi Olajuwon, fnipr
Head, Information & Public relations
