…………Reaffirms Kogi’s Commitment to Transparency, accountability.
FIC Report (Kogi State) – Kogi State on Tuesday etched its name in Nigeria’s governance history as Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo commissioned the Kogi State Audit House in Lokoja, describing the facility as a bold statement of accountability, institutional strength and responsible leadership.
The commissioning of the world-class complex formed part of activities marking Governor Ododo’s two years in office.
Speaking at the event, the governor said the Audit House represents far more than a physical structure, stressing that it symbolises his administration’s unwavering commitment to openness, transparency and credible public financial management.
“Today’s event is not merely about unveiling a new physical structure; it is about reaffirming our collective commitment to public accountability, openness, transparency, and responsible governance.”
“From the very beginning of this administration, we have made it clear that governance must be anchored on strong institutions, credible systems, and transparent processes. This edifice stands as a practical demonstration of that philosophy,” Ododo said.
Governor Ododo paid glowing tribute to his predecessor, former Governor Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, for initiating the project, noting that the Audit House reflects a long-term vision that prioritises institutions over personalities.
The project we are commissioning today was conceived and initiated under his leadership. It reflects a clear understanding that sustainable development is driven not only by policies but by enduring institutions that outlive administrations,” he said, adding that his administration is proud to bring the landmark project to completion for the benefit of the state.
The governor described the Kogi State Audit House as the first of its kind in Nigeria, purpose-built to accommodate both the Office of the Auditor-General for the State and the Office of the Auditor-General for Local Governments under one professionally designed complex.
According to him, the initiative is aimed at strengthening audit institutions at the sub-national level and guaranteeing their independence, efficiency and professionalism.
He said the benefits of the facility would be far-reaching, including enhanced operational efficiency, improved inter-audit collaboration, better record management, digital transition, training and conference facilities, and increased credibility of public financial oversight.
“By investing in audit infrastructure, we are investing in fiscal discipline, service delivery, and public trust,” Ododo said.
The governor also expressed confidence in the newly signed partnership with the Office of the Auditor-General for the Federation, saying it would strengthen technical capacity, promote modern audit methodologies and ensure compliance with national and international standards.
Commending the Auditor-General for Kogi State, Alhaji Okala Yusuf Yakubu, Ododo praised his leadership and professional commitment in positioning the state at the forefront of audit reform.
He urged the Auditor-General for the Federation to extend similar capacity-building support to the Office of the Auditor-General for Local Governments in Kogi State without the need for a separate Memorandum of Understanding, to enable both institutions grow together in competence and effectiveness.
Assuring full state support, the governor directed the immediate implementation of the partnership to ensure timely translation of agreements into tangible improvements in audit outcomes.
Governor Ododo also lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary leadership and commitment to strengthening governance systems nationwide, noting that ongoing national reforms in public finance management and institutional accountability have created an enabling environment for states to execute impactful projects.
He reaffirmed Kogi State’s alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Mr. Taiye Abanika, described the Audit House as a significant project that underscores transparency and accountability.
He said the ministry ensured strict compliance with approved designs, specifications, timeliness and value-for-money principles throughout the construction process.
“This complex provides a conducive professional working environment that will enhance professionalism, promote synergy and strengthen oversight in the management of resources at both state and local government levels,” Abanika said.
In his remarks, the Auditor-General for Local Governments, Siyaka Yakubu Adabenege, described the commissioning as “the birth of a new era of institutional renewal, strengthened oversight, and accountable governance” across Kogi’s 21 local government councils.
“This audit house is a clear testament to your unbending commitment to good governance and due process,” he told the governor. “You have not only given us a home; you have given us a voice. You have empowered us to demand value for money, safeguard public resources and uphold public trust.”
Adabenege noted that for years, auditors in Kogi State yearned for a befitting workspace that promotes professionalism, confidentiality and efficiency, adding that the new facility would significantly enhance monitoring, evaluation and reporting on local government finances.
Representing Auditors-General of the 36 states of the federation, Mr. Sunday Agoke, who is also the Auditor-General of Ogun State, commended Governor Ododo for sponsoring training programmes for state and local government auditors, describing the Kogi Audit House as a national milestone.
The Auditor-General of Kogi State, Alhaji Okala Yusuf Yakubu, congratulated Governor Ododo on his second anniversary in office, recalling that the Audit House was conceived in February 2016 when he and Ododo were appointed auditors for the state and local governments respectively.
“From this Audit House, we promise to put our body and soul to support your administration to achieve all its set goals. We shall follow every kobo, every resource, to its final intended destination,”Okala assured
The Auditor-General of the Federation, Shaakaa Kanyior Chira, formally signed a four-year Memorandum of Understanding on capacity building with the Kogi State Government, providing professional support to the state’s audit institutions at no cost.
The partnership, he said, reflects a shared commitment to professional development, knowledge exchange and continuous improvement in public sector audit practice
Former Governor of Delta State, Chief James Ibori, who officially commissioned the Audit House, commended Governor Ododo for his foresight, describing the edifice as one that would fundamentally transform auditing and accountability in Kogi State.
Signed
Maryam Abubakar Gulma
CIPRO FIC LOKOJA
27th January 2026
