Delta State Ranks Among Top 10 in Governance Transparency Index
ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State has earned a place among Nigeria’s top 10 states in the inaugural Governance Accountability and Transparency Index (G.A.T.I), a groundbreaking initiative aimed at evaluating the transparency and accountability of state governments. The 2024 report, unveiled in Abuja on 26th November, highlighted Delta, alongside Lagos, Kwara, Ekiti, Anambra, Enugu, Benue, Akwa Ibom, Borno, and Osun states, in the prestigious Category A for exceptional performance.
The G.A.T.I project, spearheaded by the Guild of Online Media Editors and Publishers (G.O.M.E.P) Nigeria, is designed to deepen good governance by shedding light on state governments’ activities across the country. The report assessed states using seven measurable indices, including public access to information, budget transparency, anti-corruption efforts, and media freedom.
Dr Dozie Nwankodu, National President of G.O.M.E.P and Publisher of The Review Online and Daily Standard News, explained that the assessment was grounded in globally recognised methodologies such as surveys, document reviews, and expert analysis. “Points were awarded per index based on the merit of each state’s performance,” he stated. “The final index mark was calculated by averaging scores across the seven indices.”
According to the report, states achieving scores between 85% and 100% were placed in Category A, signifying exceptional performance. Other categories ranged from strong to non-performance. Dr Nwankodu noted that the evaluation was meticulous and aimed at fostering greater accountability within state governments.
Comrade Akpovoke Treasure Otiti, National Secretary of G.O.M.E.P and Chairman of the 2024 G.A.T.I Appraisal Committee, highlighted the rigour behind the evaluation process. “Our approach adhered strictly to international best practices, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection, surveys, and interviews,” he explained. “Primary data was gathered from all 36 states, totalling 12,600 data points, which were meticulously reviewed before the final report was adopted.”
Otiti underscored G.O.M.E.P’s commitment to transparency and its role as a watchdog of government activities. “With over 75 reputable members, we are dedicated to maximising digital platforms for impactful news reportage. The G.A.T.I project reflects our commitment to integrity and excellence,” he concluded.
This recognition of Delta State in the G.A.T.I rankings underscores its strides towards fostering a transparent and accountable governance system, setting a benchmark for other states in Nigeria.
