Auditor-General for Local Government in Kogi State, Hon. Yakubu Siyaka Adabenege, has called on Directors of Local Government and Treasurers to strictly comply with International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) to strengthen accountability and improve service delivery at the local government level.
He made this call during a sensitization meeting with key Local Government finance officials at his office in Lokoja.
Hon. Adabenege stressed that proper adoption of IPSAS would enhance transparency, boost credibility of financial reports, and improve engagements with higher authorities on fiscal matters.
He emphasized the importance of a follow-up engagement with DLGs, Treasurers, Chairmen, and other key officers from all Local Government Areas for further discussion and technical guidance on the implementation of IPSAS in the local government system.
The Director of Audit Services, Mr. Chris Emmanuel, described the sensitization as a timely reminder of the need for proactive and responsible financial reporting.
He urged Local Government finance officers to use the IPSAS model to improve their documentation and strengthen their chances of securing tax refunds from the state.
According to him, financial officers must be tactful in dealing with political office holders and always apply professional judgment when managing the expectations of council chairmen, many of whom, he noted may not be familiar with technical accounting procedures.
