Delta Assembly Intensifies Drive for Transparency, IPSAS Compliance

The Delta State House of Assembly has restated its commitment to deepening transparency and accountability in public finance management as the Chairman of the House Committee on Public Accounts, Hon. (Dr.) James Augoye, called for intensified adherence to the International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS).

Hon. Augoye made the call during the 2026 budget defence session, where the Auditor-General for the State and the Auditor-General for Local Governments appeared before the Committee to defend their proposed budget estimates for the 2026 fiscal year.

The lawmaker emphasized that full compliance with IPSAS is crucial for improving the quality, reliability, and transparency of financial reporting across all levels of Delta State’s public service.

According to him, the State Legislature remains committed to ensuring that Delta’s public financial management system aligns with global best practices.
“Our ultimate goal is to strengthen public accountability, enhance transparency, and build public confidence in the financial operations of the State,” Hon. Augoye stated.

Representing the Okpe Constituency, Augoye urged both audit offices to deepen ongoing reforms and embrace more innovative auditing techniques to improve the process.

He further reaffirmed the Assembly’s dedication to providing legislative backing and robust oversight to promote accountability, efficiency, and transparency in the management of public resources across Delta State.

Members of the Committee, Hon. Festus Okoh, Hon. Bernard Odior, Hon. Spencer Owhofa, Hon. Matthew Omonade, and Hon. Bridget Anyafulu echoed the Chairman’s stance, stressing that strong and modern auditing systems remain vital to safeguarding public funds and ensuring responsible governance.

During their presentation, the Auditor-General for Local Governments, Mr. Ikenna Ukpaka, and his State counterpart highlighted key achievements recorded in 2025, including improved audit coverage, strengthened oversight of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), and enhanced collaboration with relevant institutions.

They assured the Committee of their readiness to consolidate on these gains, pledging to adopt more modern audit tools and implement capacity-building initiatives throughout 2026.