Gov. Ododo Expressed Administration’s commitment to Transparency, Accountability
The Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to openness and transparency in governance.
He stated this during a workshop organized by the Body of Federal and State Auditor Generals in Nigeria for staff of the offices of Auditor Generals for State and Local Government, held in Lokoja on Tuesday.
The workshop, themed “Enhancing Public Sector Auditors for Relevance and Value Addition,” aims to improve the skills and knowledge of auditors in the public sector.
The Governor represented by his Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu emphasized the vital role auditors play in maintaining transparency, accountability, and efficiency in governance, describing them as “watchdogs of public funds.”
The Governor assured that his administration is committed to collaborating with auditors to uphold accountability and integrity in governance, taking into account his background as a former Auditor General for Local Government in the State, he affirmed that it has instilled a culture of prudence and transparency in the government’s dealings.
In his words, “Auditors serve as the watchdogs of public funds, ensuring that resources are utilized effectively and in compliance with regulations.”
“We ensure thorough scrutiny of the government’s operations through our people-oriented policies and numerous completed and ongoing projects that showcase responsible financial stewardship.”
“Together, we can bring about positive change and ensure that public sector auditors are well-equipped to add value and make a meaningful impact in our dear state and Nigeria in general”, he said.
Earlier in his opening remarks, the Auditor General of Kogi State, Alhaji Yakubu Yusuf Okala stated that the essence of the training is to enhance the capacities of staff and to augment the value of public service in order to facilitate effective governance for the people.
He emphasized that the training will empower auditors to partner with various governmental ministries, Department and Agencies to ensure the equitable distribution of essential public goods and services to the citizens.
The Secretary to the Government of Kogi State, Mrs. Folashade Arike AyoAde, Ph.D., lauded State Auditor General, Yakubu Okala for his integrity and professionalism in executing his duties.
She commended the body of auditor generals for convening their training in the Kogi State capital, Lokoja, and affirmed that the state will persist in its partnership with the organization to promote accountability and transparency.
The Chairman of the Body of Auditor Generals and the Auditor General of Ondo State, Sir Sunday Omoniyi Adegoke, expressed his appreciation to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for promoting transparency in the management of state resources and pledged the body’s support for the success of his administration.
The workshop provides a platform for professionals in the auditing field to share experiences, learn best practices, and enhance their capabilities to improve public service delivery.
Unubi Emmanuel
Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor,
Kogi State
April 8, 2025
