The Ekiti State Government has expressed delight over its recent recognition as the most fiscally transparent state in Nigeria for the fourth quarter of 2024.
This recognition comes from BudgIT Foundation’s Fiscal Transparency League Table, which scored Ekiti 100 out of 100, placing the state at the top of the national index.
According to BudgIT, the ranking was based on several key indicators, including timely budget approval, publication of quarterly budget implementation reports, audited financial statements for 2023, Accountant-General’s reports, functional e-procurement platform, and ease of access to state financial data online.
Reacting to the development, the State Commissioner for Information, Chief Taiwo Olatunbosun, in a statement issued Friday in Ado-Ekiti, described the ranking as a testament to Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s commitment to transparency and sound financial management.
He said the ranking was not just a number but a clear confirmation of the Governor’s disciplined, people-focused leadership style and long-standing experience in public service.
“This achievement reflects the governor’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and responsible governance. It is something every Ekiti indigene can be proud of,” Olatunbosun stated.
He noted that Ekiti had consistently maintained top positions throughout 2024, finishing first in both the second and third quarters, and second in the first quarter. This consistency, he said, made Ekiti the only state with such a record in the year.
The state was also listed as a “Progressive Performer,” a title awarded to only five states across the country. In addition, Ekiti was one of just four states that attracted foreign direct investment in 2024.
Olatunbosun assured that the Oyebanji administration would remain focused on institutional reforms, with transparency and inclusiveness as core pillars of governance.
“Community engagement is central to our policy and project planning process. We believe in carrying everyone along, listening to feedback, and making decisions that reflect the will of the people,” he added.
He called on residents and stakeholders to continue supporting the administration, promising that the benefits of good governance would remain evident in the lives of the people.
“Trust in government starts with openness. We will never lose sight of that,” he concluded.