By Modupe Gbadeyanka
The FCT Administration says it will strengthen proper internal auditing and control to reduce time and energies being wasted in solving certain problems that may crop up.
This promise was made by the FCT Minister, Mr Muhammad Musa Bello, while receiving the Auditor-General of the Federation, Mr Anthony Ayine, who paid him a working visit in his office in Abuja.
Mr Bello said that this is a proactive step to ensure that all government financial regulations are sternly followed thereby translating it into good governance.
He also assured that the FCT Administration would work very closely with the office of the Auditor-General of the Federation, to ensure transparency in government business especially as it concerns monetary transactions.
The Minister reiterated that his Administration would foster existing relationship between the FCT Administration and office of the Auditor General of the federation and ensure proper accounting system.
The Minister, who congratulated the new Auditor-General of the Federation over his appointment, reassured that “we are going to work very closely with you”
The Minister said that the nature of the day-in-day-out activities of the FCT Administration is such that requires a different auditing template from the one being used to review other federal ministries.
According to him, “We are a Ministry as well as a Territory. As you know, by virtue of section 299 of the Constitution, we are being considered as if we are a state”.
His words: “We run a Ministry but we also run a Territory that has approximately six million people now, which is more than many States. It’s probably like two states combined.
“In terms of geographical size, we are talking of 8,000 square kilometres. That’s obviously much bigger than many States.
“We run six Area Councils. We have agencies for education, health, justice, social services, agriculture, Area Council and Chieftaincy matters. The Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) undertakes the works aspect, while the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council manages municipal services. So, basically, it’s as if we are a State.”
“We are going to work very closely with your organization so as to enhance good governance and prudent utilization of resources,” he emphasized. “I will also want to add that when you relate with our officers, the template you use for a typical Ministry will not be the same. Of course, there should be a standard template about what is right and what is wrong in terms of financial regulation that must be adhered to.”
He added, “For this Administration, there is a deliberate policy to empower, encourage and give your office all the maximum support. This is something we have discussed at very high levels and I personally was among those who feel very strongly that your office has to be given the full support it needs.”
Speaking earlier, the new Auditor-General of the Federation, Mr Anthony Ayine said that this is his first outing since his appointment into this exalted position.
He called for strengthened and sustained relationship between the office of the Auditor-General of the federation and the FCT Administration.
He promised to assist the FCT Administration in strengthening its internal control and audit system.
Dipo Olowookere 
Adedapo Adesanya