The auditor-general for the federation, Shaakaa Chira, says public sector auditing is imperative in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.

Mr Chira stated this while speaking with journalists on the commemoration of the 2026 Democracy Day celebration in Abuja.

While reflecting on the role of audit in strengthening democratic governance, he described accountability and transparency as critical pillars of democratic governance.

According to him, an audit plays a vital role in ensuring that public resources are managed prudently and in accordance with established laws and regulations.

He noted that Supreme Audit Institutions worldwide contributed to democratic development by promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance through independent oversight of public finances.

The auditor-general, however, identified weak internal control systems, capacity gaps and delays in responding to audit observations as some of the challenges affecting accountability across public institutions.

“In certain cases, there are also delays in responding to audit observations and inadequate appreciation of the importance of compliance with established regulations,” he said.

Mr Chira also identified the scale of government operations relative to available oversight resources as a challenge to effective accountability and compliance.

Despite these challenges, he said the Office of the Auditor-General for the Federation would continue to strengthen collaboration with ministries, departments and agencies, to provide professional guidance.

He said the office would also promote stronger accountability mechanisms to safeguard public resources.

Since assuming office, he explained that the OAuGF, also known as the SAI of Nigeria, was strengthening its institutional capacity to effectively discharge its constitutional mandate.

“We have intensified capacity-building programmes for auditors, strengthened forensic audit capabilities, and promoted compliance with international auditing standards. We also enhanced collaboration with key stakeholders, including the National Assembly, professional bodies and development partners,” the auditor-general said.

According to him, the office is implementing its Strategic Plan 2024–2028 to improve audit quality, enhance institutional effectiveness and promote greater accountability in public resource management.

On the role of technology in modern auditing, Mr Chira said the OAuGF had embraced technological transformation by adopting digital audit tools, data analytics, and modern audit methodologies.

According to him, technology enables auditors to analyse larger volumes of data, identify unusual patterns and detect potential risks more quickly than traditional methods.

Mr Chira said it would improve the quality and reliability of audit outcomes. The auditor-general also emphasised the importance of transparency in strengthening public trust and confidence in government institutions.

Mr Chira further urged young Nigerians to build their lives and careers on integrity, accountability and service, noting that sustainable success can only be achieved through ethical conduct and responsible leadership.

(NAN)