The Neglected Chikun Constituency: A Call To Voice Out For Equitable Development In The 2024 Budget Before It’s Too Late

By Eld. Yusuf Solomon Danbaki

NEWSDAILYNIGERIA: In the bustling state of Kaduna, there lies a constituency that seems to have been left behind – Chikun. While the 2024 budget of the Kaduna State government focuses on rural infrastructure and agricultural projects, Chikun Constituency is left grappling with neglected roads and a lack of government presence. Based on the allocations mentioned in the draft budget, it is evident that Chikun is left out or receives significantly less funding compared to other areas. The first three largest budget allocations are for Borrowing for Rural Infrastructure Development (N100 billion), Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (N16 billion), and Social Investment Program (N11 billion).

Chikun Constituency, being one of the four (4) Kaduna Capital Territory Authorities since the creation of the Kaduna Capital Territory Authority, the Kafanchan Municipal Authority, and the Zaria Metropolitan Authority in 2021 by the previous administration of Governor Nasiru Elrufai, Chikun local government area is considered to be part of urban areas that benefited from urban renewal but finds itself on the sidelines of development.

To compound the issue, the current administration of Sen. Uba Sani seems to be leaning towards rural areas, with substantial allocations for rural infrastructure and social interventions in the 2024 budget.
These allocations primarily focus on rural development and agricultural initiatives, indicating a prioritization of rural areas over urban areas like Chikun. As a result, Chikun may not receive adequate funding for its specific needs and development projects.

Unfortunately, this means that Chikun, with its vibrant economic potential, is being overlooked and sidelined not just because of the deviation in government policy direction but its lack of representation in the House of Assembly since the demise of Late Hon. Garba Madami on 17th June 2023.

One of the glaring issues Chikun faces is the presence of uncompleted and unattended road projects. These roads are crucial for opening Chikun for economic investment, just like other urban areas, such as Kaduna South, Kaduna North, and Igabi. The absence of a representative in the Kaduna State House of Assembly further exacerbates the situation, leaving Chikun without a voice to advocate for the completion of these projects.

Chikun Constituency has the potential to be an economic hub within Kaduna State. However, without adequate infrastructure development, this potential remains untapped. The neglect of Chikun hinders its growth and economic prospects, creating a divide between Chikun and other urban areas in the state.

The way forward as it is now is for stakeholders in Chikun Constituency to come together and urgently approach the State House of Assembly to address the fate of the abandoned road projects and advocate for new ones. The government must recognize the economic significance of Chikun and ensure equitable development across the state.

By engaging with the government and voicing our concerns, we can make sure our needs are heard. The Speaker and other relevant authorities need to understand the importance of the Chikun Constituency and its economic potential. By prioritizing its development, the government can bridge the gap between Chikun and other urban areas, fostering balanced growth and equitable development.

Until then, the reality on the ground now is that Chikun Constituency finds itself in a state of neglect, with uncompleted road projects and a lack of government presence. The absence of a representative in the Kaduna State House of Assembly further exacerbates the situation. Stakeholders must take immediate action, engaging with the government and advocating for the completion of abandoned road projects and new infrastructure initiatives. By doing so, we can ensure that Chikun receives the attention it deserves, fostering economic growth and development. We can bridge the gap and bring equitable development to Chikun Constituency if you add your voice to mine.

Eld. Yusuf Solomon Danbaki