Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has reiterated his administration’s unwavering support for auditors-general, emphasizing the crucial role they play in ensuring transparency, accountability, and effective governance as foundations for national development.
Speaking through Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Body of Federal and States Auditors-General, led by the Chairman and Auditor-General of Ondo State, Sir Sunday Omoniyi Adegoke, Governor Sanwo-Olu urged state governments across Nigeria to view the audit sector as indispensable in promoting good governance.
“We are very happy to host you because we understand the importance of the job you do,” Sanwo-Olu said.
“A lot of people see auditors as bad cops, but in Lagos, we don’t see it that way. We know that no matter how good your intentions are, mistakes can be made, and auditors help us identify those errors so we can correct them,” he said.
The Governor highlighted Lagos State’s strong commitment to the audit process, describing auditors as gatekeepers of public resources whose oversight is essential for building trust between governments and citizens.
He stressed that by embracing audit recommendations, governments can foster transparency and accountability, which are crucial for delivering tangible development outcomes.
Sanwo-Olu further urged other states in the federation to take the audit sector seriously, not just as a formality but as a key pillar of governance.
He also encouraged auditors to be courageous and persistent in their duties, assuring them of Lagos State’s continued support.
On his part, Sir Sunday Omoniyi Adegoke, Chairman of the Body of Federal and States Auditors-General, expressed gratitude to Governor Sanwo-Olu for Lagos State’s exemplary hosting of the body’s 54th Bi-Annual Conference.
He described the arrangements for the conference as unprecedented and lauded Lagos for setting a high standard.
“This conference is a vital platform for auditors to engage with peers, share experiences, and address critical issues surrounding accountability in Nigeria,” Adegoke said. “We appreciate Lagos State for hosting us so well – truly, it can only be Lagos.”
The meeting, held at the office of the Deputy Governor in Alausa, Ikeja, reinforced the message that a collaborative relationship between governments and auditors is essential to enhance governance, fight corruption, and promote sustainable development nationwide.
