sAbia State has been ranked at the bottom of Nigeria’s 2025 Subnational Audit Efficacy Index, attaining a score of only 9 percent in transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.
This evaluation, conducted by the Paradigm Leadership Support Initiative (PLSI) and unveiled in Abuja, assessed audit systems across all 36 states.
Abia shared the last position with Rivers State, while Ekiti State led the ranking with 72 percent.
The index incorporated local government audit functions for the first time, highlighting significant gaps in fiscal oversight within several states.
The report reveals that thirty states, representing the majority, performed below the national average of 34.5 percent.
This widespread underperformance indicates limited advancement in public financial management and audit effectiveness nationwide.
For Abia State, the outcome reflects ongoing challenges in ensuring openness and robust accountability mechanisms in the utilization of public resources, thereby affecting institutional credibility and public confidence.
In light of these findings, the Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) has urged Abia State authorities to initiate urgent and comprehensive reforms.
The organization emphasizes the need to strengthen audit processes, enhance transparency, and align governance practices with established standards of accountability.
Such measures are considered vital for addressing the identified shortcomings and promoting sustainable improvements in the stewardship of public funds.
