Gombe to use N253m for local govt automated accounting system
Gombe State Government has approved N253 million for automation of accounting system across 11 LGAs of the state.
Announcing the approval of Governor Muhammadu Yahaya, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Jalo Waziri, said this was based on global practice to ensure accountability and transparency.
Waziri made this disclosure during a press briefing on Thursday to state the takeoff of the automation system.
He said, “We are in a technology age virtually, so the need to ensure that activities are automated. It will give us efficiency, accountability. The automation is in compliance of that practice, our governor believes in prudence in utilising of our scarce resources.”
Also Speaking, Commissioner for Finance Muhammad Magaji explained that the reforms would help accounting procedures at the local government level.
According to him, with this; International Public Sector Accounting Standard (IPSAS), would be operational in the state.
Magaji said, “For us in Gombe we are not waiting because we want to see ourselves as pioneers. His Excellency has approved that we engage a consultant, he is adding to it to see that we have a software to ensure that all our accounting books are brought together.”
He added that the consultant should be given the required support towards delivering in record time, adding that the state government would reward local governments especially those with performing drive in the local government fiscal transparency accountability programme.
“Staff will be trained to be able to use this software and to be able to migrate from cash basis to accrural basis. There will be seamless migration, I want us all to support them and to continue to support the government because the governor has emphasised the need to dovetail State Transparency Accountability and Sustainability programme to the local government. It will be a competition between local government to see which local government is able to apply this new system better among themselves, it will be on a reward basis,” Magaji said.
On his part, Consultant, Prof. Ahmed Bello who elaborated on the cost implication on the government said the N253m would be considerable following the size of the local governments.
He revealed that he would provide a minimum of eight desk tops, with internet, solar facilities and the installation of software.
Bello said, “We are being economical, because the state has only 11 local governments. Why am saying so is that so that someone doesn’t call to say he wants for his state at N253m that can’t be possible for a state with more LGA’s.
“This involves supplying a minimum of eight computers that will do the work for each of the local government, each with it UPS and other accessories besides that we will provide solar, inverter in order to ensure there is light.”
