By Ngozi Nwoke
The president and Chairman of Council, Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), Dr. James Ekerare Neminebor, has advocated strengthened institutional frameworks in public financial management in plugging financial leakages.
He said this at the sixth session of ANAN Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (MCPD) programme in Lagos State, which was themed “Accounting Beyond Nigerian Borders.”
Neminebor said that ANAN was building the capacity of its mega firms – a conglomeration of audit firms to be in the league of big audit firms in the world.
The president noted that the series of public reforms in financial management systems designed by the government required enhanced institutional frameworks in boosting fiscal discipline, transparency and accountability in the management of public finances.
He said: “The training for the MCPD is aimed to explore issues in foreign exchange management, current developments in financial standards, impact of e-naira on international transactions. We chose seasoned intellectuals and professionals to carefully treat the various topics embedded in this theme.
“On July 7, 2019, Nigeria became the 34th member of the African Continental Free Trade Area by signing the agreement. However, the successful implementation of this trade agreement had been a huge task as political turmoil, infrastructure gaps and security threats are among the impediments to free trade in most of Africa.
“In enabling intra-African trade, I recommend that critical steps should be taken by members of the accountancy profession to harmonise accounting standards, leverage use of new and emerging technologies, increase engagements with government on the financial impact of policies and regulations relating to intra-continental trade.
“In further optimising cross-border accounting operations, accountants necessarily are required to develop research insights to inform trade-friendly policies and laws and build trust among multilateral development partners.
“Accountants are also required to advocate for the adoption of international standards to foster investor confidence and in enabling businesses access alternative sources of finance.”
Mr. Binuyo Taofeek Adeboye, who is the chairman of ANAN, Lagos Shomolu branch, emphasised the aim of the conference and its significance on the association.
He noted that during the conference, members are given the opportunity to enhance and increase their knowledge and expertise in order to prove their competence in the profession.
“The programme as designed by the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN ) is for our members to continually update their knowledge and skills in order to remain relevant, competent and to keep abreast of current developments in accountancy .
The theme of the 2023 Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (MCPD) programme, ‘Accounting Beyond Nigerian Boarders’, is an area that requires special attention because accounting beyond Nigerian Boarder is taking a new dimension in which private and public servants should pay attention to, in order to improve their efficiency and effectiveness on the job.
“Let me say that with the prevailing economic situation of increase in the pump price of petroleum products, which affects the generality of Nigerians, contribution to general rise of food items that caused inflation.
“To the president, fellow colleagues and invited dignitaries, permit me to appreciate the contributions of all the past branch chairmen, fellows of the association and members of the three branches in Lagos State – Ikeja, Shomolu and Mainland, that were created for administrative conveniences for the successes recorded in the past years.
“I appeal to you all not to relent in our positive contributions to the consideration of the vision and mission statements of our noble association. I want to seize this opportunity to appeal to the three branches in Lagos State to put more efforts so that we can have a befitting ANAN Lagos branch house. I believe this is possible if we work together as one big ANAN family. This dream will become a reality.”
Chairman of the MCPD, Dr. Ibrahim Awe Agboluga, said: “As the world of finance, taxation and auditing undergoes rapid transformations, it becomes imperative for us to enhance our knowledge and refine our skills to meet the challenges of the present and future. The dynamism of the global economy demands that we remain adaptable, well informed and equipped with the latest tools and techniques.
“Today, we embark on a journey that goes beyond compliance; it is a commitment to excellence, innovation and ethical practice. Our profession is entrusted with a vital role in ensuring financial transparency, integrity and stability. By participating actively in this mandatory Continuing Professional Development, we reaffirm our dedication to upholding these values and strengthening the public’s trust in our abilities.
“Through this conference, we have engaged in thought-provoking discussions, interactive workshops and insightful presentations, all aimed at expanding our knowledge horizon and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Remember, learning is not a one-time event but lifelong pursuit that enriches lives and propels us to new heights of success.
“I encourage each and every one of you to seize this opportunity to collaborate, network and learn from one mother. Let us be open to new ideas, challenge our assumptions, and embrace the transformative power of knowledge. As we embark on this educational journey, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to excellence as it is through our collective efforts that we can shape the future of our four professions. Thank you for your dedication to growth and progress. Have a rewarding and enlightening Mandatory Continuing Professional Development Program ahead.”
In his vote of thanks, the chief executive officer of ANAN, Dr. Kayode Olushola Fasua, said: “I acknowledge and appreciate our most revered invited guests and dignitaries for honouring us with their presence despite their tight schedules. We appreciate all the ANAN Council members, all past presidents of ANAN, all past registrars/CEOs, current and past DGs and NCA. You all contributed to making Lagos MPCD outstanding.
“To the LOC under the leadership of Alhaji Binuyo Taofeek Asebayo and Mr. Salisu Momoh and other state branches within the South-West region.
“We know the magnitude of effort that goes into what we have witnessed in the last few days. We also recognise the effort of the council committees of MCPD and members that have worked tirelessly in ensuring that we have a hitch-free conference. We say thank you and do not take your sacrifices for granted.”