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Auditors employed by the Lagos State Government have reaffirmed their commitment to transparency, accountability, and effective public sector management through enhanced collaboration and innovative approaches to governance. This resolution formed part of the outcomes of the 18th Internal Auditors’ Retreat, which concluded at Jubilee Chalet, Epe, Lagos State.
The Special Adviser to Governor Sanwo-Olu on Internal Audit, Dr. Oyeyemi Ayoola, FCA, who earlier declared the retreat open, described internal auditors as critical drivers of transparency, risk management, and sustainable governance, affirming their central role in the successful implementation of the State’s 2026 Budget and the T.H.E.M.E. S Plus Agenda.
The Special Adviser urged internal auditors to move beyond a narrow focus on expenditure reviews to a broader, strategic role encompassing revenue assurance, advisory services, and proactive risk mitigation.
She noted that Lagos State, ranked as the fifth-largest economy in Africa, is benchmarked against sovereign nations rather than subnational entities, a feat that underscores the importance of a strong and proactive internal audit function in safeguarding public resources and sustaining economic growth.
Dr. Ayoola stressed that the quality of internal audit files and day-to-day audit activities directly influences the credibility of the State’s financial statements, assuring auditors of institutional backing.
She further disclosed that the State Government would prioritise competency-based training for internal auditors, focusing on developing professionals capable of adding value, mentoring colleagues, and strengthening the overall audit ecosystem.
In her address, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Internal Audit, Mrs. Monsurat Titilope Alaka, underscored the need for unity of purpose among internal auditors, noting that sustainable governance can only be achieved through teamwork, shared vision, and continuous professional development.
She explained that the theme of the retreat, “One Team, One Vision: Transforming Internal Audit for Sustainable Governance,” reflects the evolving role of internal auditing from routine compliance checks to a strategic, value-adding function that supports risk management, strengthens internal controls, enhances operational efficiency, and promotes informed decision-making across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.
Mrs Alaka highlighted the pivotal role of internal auditors in the actualisation of the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda, stressing that their responsibilities cut across all its pillars through proactive risk mitigation, assurance services, and the promotion of transparency and value for money.
She expressed appreciation to Governor Sanwo-Olu for his consistent support for the internal audit function, describing his approval of the retreat as a demonstration of his commitment to institutional strengthening, fiscal discipline, and good governance in Lagos State.
The Permanent Secretary urged participants to sustain the momentum generated by the retreat by applying the knowledge gained, strengthening collaboration, and embracing innovation in the discharge of their duties, while assuring them of the continued support of the Lagos State Government towards initiatives that promote professionalism, accountability, efficiency, and service excellence.
In his goodwill message, the Chairman, Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Public Accounts, Hon. Kehinde Olaide Joseph, emphasised the importance of unity, particularly among key officials in the Office of Internal Audit, noting that unity of purpose at the leadership level would positively influence the entire cadre.
He maintained that a cohesive internal audit community would be better positioned to contribute meaningfully to the State’s development objectives, urging auditors to speak with one voice, support one another, and work collectively in advancing good governance.
Also delivering a goodwill message, the Accountant-General of Lagos State and Permanent Secretary, State Treasury Office, Dr. Abiodun Muritala, described the retreat theme as timely and relevant to the State’s long-term development aspirations.
Dr Muritala referenced the Lagos State Development Plan 2052, noting that the success of mobilising the required financing for the plan depends largely on credible financial reporting, thereby placing internal auditors at the centre of the State’s strategic objectives.
He encouraged auditors to be proactive, innovative, and fearless, describing them as critical partners in achieving institutional integrity and accountability.
The three-day retreat featured insightful presentations, interactive sessions, and robust discussions aimed at repositioning internal audit as a catalyst for sustainable governance and improved service delivery in Lagos.
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