In a bold step to promote accountability and transparency in governance, Governor Muhammad Umar Bago of Niger State has officially invited the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) to audit the state’s financial records.
Governor Bago made the announcement on Wednesday while declaring open the 20th Northern Zone Accountants Conference held in Minna, the state capital. The conference, themed “Accountability and National Re-orientation: Unlocking Nigeria’s Socio-Economic Potentials,” brought together top financial experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to deliberate on strategies for sustainable national development.
The governor explained that the independent audit would not only correct discrepancies but also identify areas for improvement, setting a new model for other states to emulate.
“The theme of this conference is timely and reflects the current realities of our nation. Accountability, rebuilding trust, fostering national values, and stimulating economic growth are imperatives we must pursue relentlessly,” Governor Bago said.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening institutions of accountability, emphasizing that fiscal discipline and transparency are essential to good governance, economic growth, and public trust.
Earlier in his remarks, ICAN President, Malam Haruna Yahaya, welcomed the partnership and assured that the professional body would maintain independence and objectivity in carrying out the audit of Niger State’s financial records.
Also speaking, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, represented by the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON), Jibrin Baba-Ndace, commended the initiative, noting that accountability is a cornerstone of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He added that the federal government is deepening citizen engagement and strengthening initiatives that align with national values and socio-economic growth.
The development is widely seen as a landmark move that could restore public confidence in government finances, curb leakages, and unlock Niger State’s economic potentials through sound fiscal management.
With Niger State taking the lead, stakeholders believe this model could inspire other states across Nigeria to embrace similar reforms and promote transparency in public finance management.
