Benue SUBEB chair highlights IPSAS role in boosting accountability, ensuring timely funding

Grace Adagba, Executive Chairman of the Benue State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), has emphasised the importance of International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) in improving accountability and ensuring timely access to funds for development projects in basic education.

The Executive Chairman made the statement on Friday while participating in a three-day IPSAS Basic Training in Abuja alongside key finance management staff.

This was contained in a statement issued by Emmanuela Akese, Information Officer of Benue SUBEB.

The strategic workshop, organised by the Centre for Economic Reform Initiative, Abuja, was designed to strengthen fiscal transparency and promote the use of technological innovations in modern financial management.

The training was expected to enhance the Board’s efficiency, particularly in managing counterpart funding for UBEC intervention projects across the 23 Local Government Education Authorities (LGEAs).

Adagba explained that with IPSAS, they are better equipped to manage UBEC accounts accurately, ensure proper documentation, and meet all requirements for the timely release of counterpart funding, which allows for quicker and more effective execution of projects in basic education schools.

The SUBEB boss commended Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State for his commitment to the transformation of basic education. She acknowledged that the Governor’s prompt release of counterpart funds has enabled the Board to access UBEC interventions without delay.

“Because of the Governor’s support, we are now able to implement modern facilities in schools—storey-building classrooms, furniture, digital and non-digital libraries, water and sanitation projects, supply of smart boards, the shift from chalkboards to whiteboards, and other critical infrastructure that enhance the learning environment for our children,” Adagba said.

The key finance staff of the Board participating in the training alongside Adagba include the Director of Finance and Accounts, the Internal Auditor, and the Desk Officer for the Matching Grant.