Yobe Ranks First In 2024 Subnational Audit Efficacy Index

The Paradigm Leadership Support Initiative (PLSI), a non-governmental organisation, has once again ranked Yobe State as the best-performing state in its 2024 Subnational Audit Efficacy (SAE) Index.

The SAE Index evaluates the level of transparency and accountability in the management and utilisation of public funds and the implementation of public policies across Nigeria’s 36 states.

The latest edition of PLSI’s flagship research report, launched yesterday in Abuja, ranked Yobe State as the top performer among all 36 states, scoring 73%. Ekiti (54%) and Adamawa (47%) secured the second and third positions, respectively.

At the lower end of the rankings, Ogun, Bayelsa, and Ebonyi States shared the 34th position, each scoring 7%. The ranking highlights Yobe State’s consistency in maintaining robust public audit practices and transparency mechanisms, setting a benchmark for other states in the federation.

Speaking on the release of the Index, PLSI’s executive director, Olusegun Elemo, commended Yobe State for its exemplary performance and encouraged other states to adopt similar measures to improve governance and accountability.

He noted that the Index was first introduced in 2021 to spotlight gaps and best practices in transparency and accountability across Nigeria’s subnational governments.

Elemo further explained that, over the past two years, PLSI has provided technical assistance to Anambra, Delta, Ekiti, Kaduna, and Yobe States through a MacArthur Foundation-supported project aimed at strengthening public audit practices and accountability at the state level.

“The impact of these interventions is beginning to show,” Elemo said, citing Delta State’s Office of the Auditor-General, which recently conducted the first standardised performance audit on solid waste disposal and management at the sub-national level.

“The SAE Index is a tool for driving reform and strengthening public trust. Yobe’s achievement shows that prioritising transparency in public financial management is possible and rewarding,” he added.

PLSI’s SAE Index evaluates states based on critical components of the public audit action cycle, including the submission, review, and implementation of audit reports by key stakeholders. The Index aims to foster a culture of accountability in the public sector, ensuring effective resource utilisation for the benefit of citizens.

The SAE Index underscores the importance of regular audits, prompt implementation of recommendations, and collaboration among government entities to promote good governance.