By Ogalla Daniel
The Accountant General of Kogi State, Hajia Habibat Tijani, has called for the enactment of a comprehensive financial management law to strengthen the state’s financial system and enhance accountability.
Hajia Tijani made the call on Wednesday in Lokoja during the 2026 budget defence of her ministry before the Kogi State House of Assembly Committee on Public Accounts and Economic Planning.
Represented by the Director of Treasury, Mr. Ikusemoro Samuel, the Accountant General said a dedicated legal framework had become necessary to close existing gaps in the state’s financial operations.
According to her, such a law would “block leakages, curb corruption, and ensure transparency across all government financial processes.”
She noted, “At the moment, there is no specific law regulating our financial institutions in the state. We are already working to domesticate what is obtainable in other states to address the challenges we are currently facing.”
Hajia Tijani also commended Governor Usman Ododo, for prioritising the welfare of civil servants through prompt payment of salaries, settlement of promotion arrears, and the reintroduction of leave bonuses—initiatives she described as unprecedented in recent years.
“The present administration has commenced the payment of leave bonuses. Very soon, the government will also begin the payment of promotion allowances for workers, something that has not been done for a long time,” she added.
She further stressed that improving workers’ welfare was vital for productivity and public service efficiency, stating:
“When workers are motivated and assured that their entitlements will be paid, it boosts morale and strengthens the entire governance structure.”
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Lawal Akus, applauded the Office of the Accountant General for its role in stabilising salary payments and maintaining financial order in the state.
“The office of the Accountant General has done well. We are pleased with the level of stability in the payment of salaries without glitches,” Akus said.
“Please, continue to do more for the people of Kogi State. This Assembly is satisfied with your performance so far.”
The Committee chairman assured the ministry of the Assembly’s support in ensuring that reforms aimed at strengthening the state’s financial system are fully realised.
