Dr. Eric Oduro Osae’s tenure as Director-General of Ghana’s Internal Audit Agency (IAA) has concluded, marking the end of a transformative period for the agency. His resignation, announced on April 17, 2025, signifies the culmination of years dedicated to strengthening public financial management and promoting accountability within the Ghanaian public sector. Dr. Osae’s leadership was characterized by a strong commitment to enhancing transparency and integrity in financial oversight systems, leaving a lasting impact on the IAA and its role in safeguarding public resources.
Dr. Osae’s contributions to the IAA are widely acknowledged, particularly his focus on institutional strengthening and the modernization of internal audit practices. He spearheaded initiatives to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of internal audit functions across various government institutions. These efforts aimed to create a robust internal control environment, minimizing the risk of financial mismanagement and promoting ethical conduct within the public sector. His vision for a more accountable and transparent public financial management system played a pivotal role in shaping the IAA’s strategic direction and operational effectiveness.
Under Dr. Osae’s leadership, the IAA witnessed a significant shift in its operational approach, moving towards a more proactive and risk-based auditing model. This involved strengthening the capacity of internal audit units within government bodies, equipping them with the skills and resources to effectively identify and mitigate financial risks. The emphasis on preventative measures, rather than solely reactive investigations, helped foster a culture of financial prudence and accountability across the public sector. This proactive approach contributed to more efficient use of public funds and enhanced the credibility of government financial operations.
Beyond enhancing internal audit practices, Dr. Osae also focused on promoting a culture of compliance and ethical conduct within government institutions. He championed initiatives to raise awareness about the importance of internal controls and ethical decision-making, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility among public officials. This emphasis on ethical governance contributed to a more transparent and accountable public sector, fostering public trust and confidence in government financial management.
Dr. Osae’s legacy extends beyond the technical improvements in internal audit practices. He fostered a collaborative environment within the IAA, encouraging knowledge sharing and capacity building amongst staff. His leadership style emphasized mentorship and professional development, ensuring that the agency was equipped with a skilled and motivated workforce capable of meeting the evolving challenges of public financial management. This investment in human capital further strengthened the IAA’s institutional capacity, positioning it for continued success in its oversight role.
As Dr. Osae departs, the IAA is well-positioned to continue its crucial work in promoting good governance and financial accountability within the Ghanaian public sector. His leadership has laid a strong foundation for the agency’s future, built upon enhanced internal audit practices, a strengthened institutional framework, and a renewed commitment to ethical governance. The reforms implemented during his tenure have significantly improved the effectiveness of public financial management in Ghana, contributing to a more transparent and accountable government. The IAA’s ongoing efforts to safeguard public resources and promote ethical conduct within the public sector will undoubtedly continue to benefit from the transformative changes implemented under Dr. Osae’s leadership.
