The Chairman of the Ekiti State Local Government Service Commission, Mr Samuel Abejide, has urged auditors and finance officers in the local government system to strengthen their digital competence to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accountability in public service.
He gave the charge while delivering his address at the opening ceremony of a two-day workshop on “Basic Computer Operations and Audit Applications in the Local Government,” held at Ado.
Representing the chairman, the commissioner in charge of the training and manpower development department noted that in today’s digital age, the use of computers has become indispensable in public administration, particularly in financial management, record keeping, and auditing processes.
According to him, effective service delivery in government institutions can only be achieved when officers are equipped with the necessary digital knowledge and practical skills.
He explained that the training programme was designed to expose participants to the basic knowledge of computer operations and the practical applications of computer systems in auditing activities.
He emphasized that auditing requires a high level of accuracy, proper documentation, and timely reporting, all of which can be significantly enhanced through the use of computer technology and relevant software applications.
The LGSC chairman stated that the workshop would feature practical sessions covering fundamental computer skills, data management, electronic documentation, and the use of computer applications in audit processes.
He expressed optimism that the sessions would enhance participants’ competence, improve productivity, and strengthen accountability in their respective offices.
He encouraged participants to take full advantage of the workshop by actively participating in discussions, asking questions, and sharing experiences with facilitators and fellow colleagues.
Abejide stressed that the knowledge gained from the training should not remain within the training room but should be effectively applied in their daily official responsibilities.
The chairman also appreciated the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for his commitment to capacity building and professional development of public servants, noting that such initiatives would continue to improve service delivery across the public service.
The representative of the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Adedayo Famisa, who is the HLA general administration urged participants to cooperate with their lecturer in order to achieve the objectives of the seminar.
He noted that the training would be highly practical to ensure participants gain the competence required to perform effectively in their roles.
He emphasized that understanding the nitty-gritty of their responsibilities would help them remain upright, outstanding, and competent on the job.
According to him, officers who distinguish themselves through excellence and professionalism would naturally become sought after in their respective offices.
He further advised participants to maintain humility and take the opportunity presented by the programme seriously, stressing that the training should not be taken for granted.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Director of Internal Audit, Dr. Francis Ekundayo, who represented the Executive Secretary of the Central Internal Audit, Mr. Femi Olowolade, expressed appreciation to the Commission for the opportunity provided to the Internal Audit Department through the training programme.
Ekundayo described the Internal Audit Department as a “baby” of the Commission, noting that the Commission has continued to nurture it by providing the necessary support and resources needed for its growth and effectiveness.
He commended the Commission for organizing the training forum, describing it as timely and beneficial to officers in the department.
According to him, the Commission has been instrumental in strengthening the system currently being used by the internal audit units across the local government system.
He recalled that not long ago, all Directors of Internal Audit across the 16 Local Government Areas and the Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) were provided with laptop computers.
He explained that the department had earlier requested practical training to enable them effectively utilize the systems, adding that the ongoing seminar was organized in response to that request.
Ekundayo noted that the training brought together directors, deputy directors and other executive officers of the department to enhance their competence and improve service delivery.
He, however, used the opportunity to solicit for additional laptop computers for the Deputy Directors, explaining that they work in different departments and sections and would require the devices to enhance efficiency in the discharge of their duties.
Omolara Oladija
Director information EKLGSC
