Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has invited the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) to audit the state’s financial records in order to identify areas of improvement and strengthen accountability.
The governor made this known while declaring open the 20th Northern Zonal Accountants Conference held in Minna, with the theme: “Accountability and National Re-orientation: Unlocking Nigeria’s Socio-Economic Potentials.”
Governor Bago said the partnership with ICAN would set an example for other states across the federation, noting that transparency and fiscal discipline are vital tools for good governance and for harnessing the state’s economic potential.
He described the conference theme as timely, stressing that accountability, rebuilding trust, fostering national values, and stimulating economic growth remain critical in Nigeria’s current context. He assured that his administration will continue to strengthen institutions of accountability for the benefit of the people, while urging participants to provide practical recommendations that would help governments at all levels inspire public confidence.
ICAN President, Mallam Haruna Nma Yahaya, welcomed the collaboration and pledged that the institute would remain independent in carrying out the audit of the state’s financial books.
Also speaking at the event, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, said the conference theme aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s national agenda, emphasising that accountability is the foundation of every thriving society.
Represented by the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, Jibrin Baba Ndace, the minister explained that the ministry is working to deepen citizen engagement and open government initiatives, adding that accountability is a shared responsibility needed to unlock Nigeria’s future.
