Experts deliberate on accountability in public finance, nation building

Poised to restore the economy to the path of growth, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) has gathered experts to discuss how to enforce accountability in public finance, nation building and positively project the future of the profession at its 47th yearly Accountants’ Conference which begins today.

The theme of the conference which would take place in Abuja from October 16 to 20, is “Nigeria First: Accountancy, Nation Building and the Future”. The gathering hopes to bring the importance of accountability in nations’ building to the public domain and spurs government at all levels to recognize the importance of accountability for the over-all development of the country.

The conference will among other areas examines; “Cyber crime and Cyber-Security: What Chartered Accountants Need to Know”. Other papers to be presented and discussed at the conference include: Cancer and Its Early Detection; Wearable Technology for Stress Management; Integrated Reporting: The Future of Corporate Reporting; Islamic Finance: Global Trend and Potentials for Chartered Accountants; Young Professionals: Emerging Leaders of Change and Nation Building.

The Chief Executive Officer of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), Mr. Fayezul Choudhoury is expected to speak on; “The Future of the Accountancy Profession”, provides an insight into some of the key global trends affecting the accounting profession such as the impact of new regulations on businesses, practitioners and the academia; the skills and specialties needed to remain relevant; evolving career paths and other emerging issues in the years to come.

The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwumi Ambode, a fellow of the institute and Head of Service of the Federation, Mrs. Winifred Oyo-Ita (FCA) are among other dignitaries expected at the conference. Other prominent speakers billed to speak on the various topics associated with the conference are: Mr. Chinedu Echeruo, Mr. Farooq Oreagba, Mr. Tola Adeyemi, Mr. Ituah Ighodalo, Mr. Segun Banwo as well as Mr. Fola Adeola.

In a statement by the Senior Manager, Corporate Communications and Marketing, ICAN, Bunmi Owolabi, it states: “ Paper on ICAN Accountability Index: Reforming Public Finance Management for the Future” which will dissect the concept of accountability in the public sector as it evolves from the stewardship functions entrusted in government officials would be examined. The conference will offer a platform for experts and professionals to rub minds on how to make accountability the watchword for good governance. A communiqué is expected at the end of the conference”.

He noted that since youth unemployment rate had risen considerably in recent years and its accompanying effects, there would also be a presentation entitled; “Nigeria: The Future of Work and Youth Unemployment”. The discussion will focus on how to tackle its detrimental impact on individuals, economies and societies.

Nigeria’s President, Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) is expected to declare the conference open while the Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (GCON) will declare it closed.