LAGOS GOVT URGES INTERNAL AUDITORS TO PRIORITISE PROFESSIONALISM, SELF-DEVELOPMENT
Lagos State Government has urged internal auditors to exhibit exemplary character in the discharge of their core duties, emphasising the importance of self-development for effectiveness and efficiency.
The Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Olabode Agoro gave this advice on Thursday during the opening session of the 16th Annual Retreat for Internal Auditors in the State, held at Novatel Hotel, Lekki, underscoring the significance of exemplary character among internal auditors as they carry out their core duties.
Agoro, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Public Service Office, Mrs. Olasunkanmi Oyegbola, said integrity, honesty, and ethical conduct are essential traits that Auditors must possess to uphold the credibility of the profession.
Agoro also emphasised the importance of self-development for auditors to enhance their effectiveness and efficiency, saying that in a rapidly evolving business environment, continuous learning and skill development are essential for auditors to stay abreast of emerging trends, regulations and technologies.
He added that by investing in professional growth, auditors can broaden their knowledge base, strengthen their analytical abilities and adapt to changing audit methodologies and practices.
While addressing participants at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Internal Audit, Mrs. Kikelomo Dawodu, FCA, reiterated the commitment of the Office of Internal Audit towards excellent service delivery.
Dawodu explained the critical role of internal auditors in promoting accountability, transparency, and good governance across government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), describing the Retreat as an annual forum that helps enhance the professional skills and competencies of auditors to meet the evolving challenges of their roles.
The Permanent Secretary underscored the dynamic nature of the public sector landscape, marked by changing regulations, emerging risks, and evolving technologies. She, however, stressed the need for internal auditors to adapt to these changes proactively, ensuring that their audit processes remain robust and effective in safeguarding public resources while promoting organisational efficiency.
During his presentation at the event, one of the facilitators, Mr. Abiodun Bamgboye stressed the need for internal auditors to develop themselves so that they can exhibit professionalism on the job.
Bamgboye delved into specific working strategies and skills that are vital for auditors to cultivate. These, according to him, include a strong understanding of financial regulations and compliance requirements, effective communication skills to liaise with various stakeholders, and analytical abilities to identify areas for improvement within an organisation’s processes and procedures.
He also highlighted the importance of technological proficiency in modern auditing practices, noting that with the increase in the digitalisation of financial systems and data, auditors must possess the technical skills necessary to leverage advanced auditing tools and software effectively.
He, therefore, stressed the significance of ethical conduct and integrity in the field of auditing, emphasising the need for auditors to maintain objectivity and impartiality in their assessments.