Gombe State has recorded another major milestone in public sector governance, emerging second nationwide in the 2025 Subnational Audit Efficacy (SAE) Index released by the Paradigm Leadership Support Initiative (PLSI).
Established in 2016, the PLSI is a non-profit organization committed to strengthening accountability and good governance by promoting citizens’ involvement in public audit processes nationwide.
The latest ranking places Gombe among Nigeria’s top-performing states in public finance oversight with an impressive score of 68%, representing a remarkable rise from its 16th-place position in the previous assessment.
According to the report, Gombe State demonstrated notable progress in strengthening the independence of its audit system.
The report noted that legal provisions are being implemented and the Office of the Auditor-General now receives its funding directly from the Consolidated Revenue Fund, ensuring the institution operates with financial autonomy from the executive it audits.
The report also highlighted improvements in both state and local government audit systems, which contributed 55% and 13%, respectively, to the overall score.
A review of the state’s performance trajectory reveals a consistent upward trend since 2019, aligned with the broader governance reforms introduced by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, aimed at promoting transparency and efficient resource utilization.
Reacting to the development, the Gombe State Government reiterated its commitment to consolidating these gains through stronger institutions and responsible fiscal management.
The state government further stated that the ranking strengthens Gombe’s standing as a leading subnational in good governance and reflects a sustained commitment to institutional excellence.