Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Monday, reiterated his administration’s commitment to the highest standards of ethical conduct, fiscal discipline and judicious allocation of resources, transparency and accountability.

Governor Oborevwori stated this at the Delta State Audit Forum held at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba with Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu and the State Head of Service Mr Reginald Bayoko among others in attendance.

The Governor who was represented by his Senior Policy Adviser, Chief Funkekeme Solomon, urged all participants to embrace the culture of collaboration and cooperation among audit stakeholders including government agencies, oversight bodies, and the public.

Oborevwori said: “This Forum reflects our commitment to transparency, integrity, and the pursuit of excellence in public service.

“The role of auditors in public administration and financial management cannot be overemphasised. In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, characterised by technological changes and complex fiscal challenges, it is imperative to have a robust and functional auditing that enables good governance, transparency and financial accountability.

“The Forum serves as a platform for us to collectively assess our progress, identify areas for improvement and share best practices.

“We must adopt and adapt to emerging trends and embrace innovative approaches to enhance our audit processes, strengthen internal controls and safeguard against fraud and mismanagement.

“This administration is committed to the highest standards of ethical conduct, fiscal discipline and judicious allocation of resources, transparency and accountability.

“Through such cooperation and synergy, we can maximise the impact of our efforts and promote greater trust and confidence in the integrity of our institutions.

“As we engage in fruitful discussions over the course of this Forum, I urge you to be bold in your ideas, relentless in your pursuit of excellence and unwavering in your commitment to the public interest.

“Collaboratively, we have the power to drive meaningful change and ensure a brighter future for all Deltans.”

Chairman House Committee on Public Accounts, Chief James Augoye said the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) is viewed as the apex for financial scrutiny and accountability in any democratic government.

He said the PAC is an important legislative oversight tool through which the legislature oversees the government’s accounts and expenditure to ensure transparency, accountability and proper utilization of public funds.

Augoye added that the Public Accounts Committee of the Delta State House of Assembly was established by the provisions of section 125(5) of the 1999 Constitution (as altered) and in line with Order XV, Rule 110 of the Standing Orders of the House.

The former Commissioner for Works, further remarked that Delta State Audit Law 2021 and other relevant frameworks gave the Public Accounts Committee the mandate of ensuring transparency, accountability and good governance.

Welcoming guests earlier, the State Auditor General, Mrs Veronica Okonji said the Forum was organised to interact with stakeholders on some changes in audit practice for better service delivery.

Mrs Okonji said the timing of the Forum was significant following the passage of the State Audit Law 2021, the Procurement Law, the introduction of performance audit, the adoption of International Public Sector Accounting Standard {IPSAS} Accrual among others.

“These changes have made this interaction relevant and inevitable. As auditors, we have taken a broad review of our responsibilities and have come to the conclusion that there is need to engage stakeholders on these developments.”

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