Lagos Head of Service Urges Internal Auditors to Embrace Digital Transformation

Bennett Oghifo

The Head of Service of Lagos State, Mr. Bode Agoro, has emphasised the need for internal auditors to adapt to the digital age by acquiring skills in data analytics, cybersecurity, and digital transformation.

Speaking at the opening session of the 17th Annual Retreat for Internal Auditors held at Dover Hotel, Ikeja, recently, Agoro noted that technological advancements are reshaping the auditing profession.

According to a statement by the Head, Public Affairs, Office of Internal Audit, Tosin Martins, he stressed that auditors must go beyond traditional financial reviews and evolve into strategic advisors within government processes.

“Auditors who wish to remain relevant must be equipped to analyze vast amounts of data, identify trends, and assess risks associated with digital transformation,” Agoro stated.

He commended the Office of Internal Audit for selecting the theme, ‘Internal Audit in the Digital Age’, noting that it reflects the ongoing shift towards technology-driven governance.

A member of the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Alimosho Constituency 2, Hon. Kehinde Joseph, in his goodwill message, lauded the initiative of the retreat, emphasising that participants would gain valuable knowledge essential for government efficiency, transparency, and accountability.

In her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Office of Internal Audit, Mrs. Kikelomo Arinola Dawodu, underscored the importance of embracing digital advancements in the auditing profession.

“As digital transformation accelerates, internal auditors must continuously learn, innovate, and integrate new technologies to remain relevant and effective,” she noted.

She encouraged participants to engage actively, network, and explore transformative solutions that would shape the future of internal auditing in Lagos State and beyond.

“As the eyes of governance, we carry the responsibility of upholding integrity and ensuring fiscal discipline. Let us use this gathering to learn, network, and explore transformative solutions,” she urged.

One of the facilitators at the retreat, Dr. Adedeji Awobotu, the Chief Executive of ADRAC Professional Services Consulting, emphasised that by embracing innovation, internal auditors in the public sector can strengthen governance, mitigate financial risks, and enhance public trust in government operations.

Speaking on the topic: ‘The Digital Age: Challenges and Opportunities for Internal Auditors in the Public Sector’, Awobotu highlighted the rapid evolution of technology as one of the primary challenges in the auditing profession. He pointed out that emerging risks such as cybersecurity threats, data breaches, and fraud require auditors to enhance their technical skills.

“As governments increasingly adopt digital systems for financial transactions, record-keeping, and service delivery, auditors must be equipped to assess risks associated with artificial intelligence, blockchain, and big data analytics,” he stated.

A participant at the retreat, Mr. Taiwo Adekunle, a Deputy Director of Audit in the Office of Infrastructure, expressed optimism that the auditors will gain valuable insights from the retreat to enhance their professional duties.