DETERMINANTS OF INTERNAL AUDIT EFFECTIVENESS OF TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS IN KWARA STATE

Abstract

This study investigated the determinants of internal audit effectiveness (IAE) in tertiary institutions within Kwara State, Nigeria, focusing on the influence of top management support (TMS), internal auditor remuneration (IAR), auditor competence (IAC), IT integration, and external pressures. Given the critical role of internal audits in ensuring compliance, safeguarding assets, and promoting accountability, this study addresses significant challenges in Nigerian educational institutions, such as audit independence, remuneration disparities, and adapting to technological advancements. Through, correlation and regression analyses, the study revealed that IAR, IAC, and TMS are strong predictors of IAE. Specifically, a robust positive relationship exists between IAR and IAE, indicating that competitive salaries enhance auditor motivation and performance. Similarly, IAC is positively correlated with IAE, underscoring the need for continuous professional development to improve audit quality. TMS also positively influences IAE, emphasizing the importance of active support from top management in resource allocation and autonomy for the internal audit function. Although IT integration shows a positive correlation with IAE, its impact is not statistically significant, suggesting that effective utilization and integration of IT tools are crucial for realizing their full potential. The study recommends implementing competitive remuneration, ongoing training for auditors, and strong top management support, while focusing on optimizing IT systems. These findings provide valuable insights for improving internal audit practices and governance in Nigerian tertiary institutions and serve as a foundation for future research and policy development.