Lagos, Benue Among Lowest in Public Disclosure of Government Spending

…World Bank’s $1.5B SFTAS Program Transparency Gains Lost- Auditor-General

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

The Paradigm Leadership Support Initiative (PLSI) has released its 2023 edition of the Subnational Audit Efficacy (SAE) Index, revealing Lagos and Benue as the states with the lowest public disclosure of government spending. According to the report, Benue and Lagos ranked 35th and 36th respectively, with 19 percent and 5 percent transparency levels.

The index evaluates transparency and accountability in managing public funds and implementing policies across Nigeria’s 36 states. Notably, Ekiti and Yobe emerged as the top performers, scoring 73 percent each, followed by Akwa Ibom and Katsina at 60% and 53% respectively.

Furthermore, Kano, Borno, and Benue were noted for their low audit disclosure, while Tinubu emphasized prioritizing digital infrastructure investments. Sokoto, Taraba, and Ondo scored 31%, placing them 15th on the index.

The report highlighted that 34 states have modern audit laws, excluding Anambra and Benue, aiming to ensure the independence of Supreme Audit Institutions and strengthen audit practices. Despite this, effective implementation remains lacking, hindering accountability and development.

Olusegun Elemo, the Executive Director of PLSI, expressed concern over declining state performance, particularly regarding the erosion of gains made under the World Bank’s $1.5 billion SFTAS Program.

Meanwhile, the Auditor-General Shaakaa Chira, has maintained that lack of sustainability measures by policy actors has contributed to this erosion of transparency level in Nigeria.

Chira who commended PLSI’s efforts in promoting good governance however stressed the need for collaborative action to address governance challenges and ensure sustainable development.

He urged stakeholders to heed the findings of the SAE Index and work towards a more transparent and accountable future for Nigeria.

“ As the Auditor-General for the Federation, I am deeply encouraged and motivated by the dedication and commitment demonstrated by the Paradigm Leadership Support Initiative in championing the cause of good governance and accountability, your steadfast efforts serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all stakeholders who are critical to our nation’s march toward achieving transparency and accountability in the conduct of government businesses.

“ Moving forward, let us seize the findings of the Sub-National Audit Efficacy Index as a call to action. Let us redouble our efforts, foster collaboration, and work tirelessly towards building a more accountable, transparent, and sustainable future for Nigeria Together, we can overcome challenges, realize our shared aspirations, and create a legacy of progress for generations to come.” He said.