Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, says transparency and accountability remain central to the agenda of his administration in the state.
Governor Ododo stated this on Tuesday while unveiling the Kogi State Audit House, a purpose-built complex designed to strengthen fiscal oversight and deepen accountability, as part of activities marking his second year in office.
According to the governor, the event was not only about the unveiling of a physical structure, but a demonstration of collective commitment to accountability, openness and transparency in governance.
“This is a statement of our belief in strengthening the audit system at the sub-national level to enhance transparency, accountability and public trust,” he said.
Governor Ododo commended his predecessor, former Governor Yahaya Bello, for conceiving the project, noting that the Audit House reflects continuity in governance and institutional development.
He explained that the facility would enhance operational efficiency, promote inter-agency collaboration, improve data management, provide training, strengthen the credibility of financial oversight and boost public confidence in government.
“The Audit House comprises two wings — one for the Office of the Auditor-General of the State and the other for the Office of the Auditor-General for Local Governments — to improve functionality and coordination between both audit institutions.”
He praised the synergy and understanding between the state and federal audit systems, assuring that the collaboration would enhance efficiency and professionalism.
The Governor commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for creating an enabling environment for sub-national governments to thrive better through his Renewed Hope Agenda.
He also acknowledged the former Delta State Governor, Chief James Ibori, who was present in the state to mark the second anniversary of the Governor in office.
The Auditor-General of the Federation, Shaakaa Kanyitor, commented the Kogi State government for strengthening its audit institutions, while applauding both former Governor Yahaya Bello and Governor Ododo for deepening accountability and transparency.
The Auditor-General of the State, Yakubu Okala als praised both Governor Ododo and the immediate past Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, for their commitment to strengthening the audit system in Kogi State.
Okala assured that the Office of the Auditor-General would leverage the new facility to support the Ododo administration by ensuring that public resources are judiciously managed and effectively deployed for their intended purposes for the benefit of the people.
Similarly, the Auditor-General for Local Government, Yakubu Adabenege, noted that the Audit House would strengthen oversight, accountability and transparency in local government administration across the state.
He said the improved working environment and enhanced inter-agency collaboration would bolster data integrity, improve financial scrutiny and deepen public confidence in governance at the grassroots level.
The ceremony was attended by senior government officials and stakeholders from across the country, with former Delta State Governor, Chief James Ibori, performing the ceremonial cutting of the tape to formally declare the facility open for use.
In his remarks, Chief Ibori commended the Kogi State Government under Governor Ododo for prioritising fiscal responsibility and institutional reforms, describing the Audit House as a strategic investment that would strengthen governance and promote integrity in public service.
