Governor Ododo Commissions Ultramodern Kogi Audit House to Mark Second Anniversary »

Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, on Tuesday January 27th commissioned the Kogi State Audit House, a purpose-built, multi-agency complex designed to strengthen fiscal discipline, transparency and accountability in the administration of public resources.

The commissioning formed part of activities marking Governor Ododo’s second anniversary in office and drew high-profile dignitaries from across the country, including the Auditor-General of the Federation, Auditors-General from states and local governments, senior government officials, development partners and political leaders.

Speaking at the event, Governor Ododo described the Audit House as more than an infrastructural project, stressing that it represents his administration’s deliberate commitment to strong institutions, transparent processes and responsible governance.

“This 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,” the governor said.

He explained that the facility, which houses both the Office of the Auditor-General for the State and the Office of the Auditor-General for Local Governments, is the first of its kind in Nigeria and was intentionally designed to enhance independence, professionalism and efficiency in public sector auditing.

Governor Ododo paid glowing tribute to his predecessor, former Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello, for conceiving and initiating the project, describing it as a reflection of foresight and belief in institutions that outlive administrations. He also commended the Kogi State House of Assembly and the State Executive Council for providing the legislative and executive support that ensured the project’s completion.

The governor also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ongoing national reforms in public finance management and accountability, noting that they have created an enabling environment for states to strengthen governance systems.

Ododo announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Office of the Auditor-General for Kogi State and the Office of the Auditor-General for the Federation, aimed at capacity building and technical support for a period of four years at no cost to the state. He expressed confidence that the partnership would strengthen audit capacity, promote modern audit practices and deepen accountability across government.

He further directed that similar capacity-building support be extended to the Office of the Auditor-General for Local Governments to ensure both audit institutions grow together in competence and effectiveness.

In his remarks, the Auditor-General for Kogi State, Alhaji Yakubu Okala, described the commissioning of the Audit House as the fulfilment of a decade-long vision. He traced the origin of the project to 2016, noting that despite initial approval, the dream was stalled until Governor Ododo assumed office.

“What we are seeing here today is beyond an ordinary building; it is a dream come true and a testimony to God’s grace and visionary leadership,” Okala said, pledging that auditors would ensure every public resource is tracked and deployed for its intended purpose.

The Auditor-General for Local Governments, Hon. Yakubu Adabenege Siyaka, described the facility as a landmark in institutional renewal and grassroots accountability. He lauded Governor Ododo for strengthening the role of auditors and providing a professional environment that enhances oversight across the 21 local government areas of the state.

L-R: Hon. Yakubu Okala and Hon. Siyaka Adabenege

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Abanika Taiye, said the Audit House Complex is an architectural masterpiece comprising two wings to accommodate both audit offices. He disclosed that the project was executed by Silverpros Construction Limited under strict supervision by the ministry to ensure quality, compliance and value for money.

Highlight of the ceremony was the official commissioning of the complex by former Governor of Delta State, Chief James Onanefe Ibori, whose presence, Governor Ododo said, stressed the national significance of the project.

The commissioning of the Kogi State Audit House is widely seen as a major milestone in the state’s drive toward institutional governance reforms, reinforcing public trust and accountability as Governor Ododo marks two years of his administration.