Ododo Advocates AI Adoption for Local Government Auditors

Kogi State Governor Ododo called on Auditors-General for Local Governments across Nigeria to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies to improve accountability and reduce financial leakages. This statement was made during the opening of the 30th Annual Conference of Auditors-General for Local Governments in Nigeria at the Government House in Lokoja, running from August 10 to 14, 2026.

The conference's theme is “Repositioning Auditors-General for Governance Excellence in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Towards Global Best Practices in Local Government Audit.” Ododo, a former Auditor-General for Local Governments in Kogi State, emphasized that auditors' responsibilities extend beyond financial record checks, highlighting the moral obligation tied to public funds. He noted the importance of compliance and value for money in public financial management.

The governor also mentioned the financial autonomy granted to Local Governments by the Supreme Court, urging auditors to utilize modern tools for detecting financial risks. He announced ongoing efforts to strengthen audit institutions in Kogi State, including a four-year Memorandum of Understanding with the Office of the Auditor-General for the Federation for capacity development.